Superior National Forest Update: November 14

 
Hello, I’m Mary Ann Atwood, Gunflint Ranger District’s administrative support clerk, with this week’s edition of the Superior National Forest Update.  Here’s what’s going on that may affect travel and recreation on the Gunflint and Tofte Districts of the Forest over the next week.
 
You may have noticed that winter has arrived on the north shore.  Tread carefully on Forest Service roads as you will likely encounter a thin layer of ice.   Lakes are starting to freeze up as well.  Our wilderness rangers have encountered 2 – 3 inches of ice cover on most small lakes.  If you’re planning a paddling trip, call the Tofte or Gunflint District offices for an ice report. 
 
Whether hiking or paddling in the BWCAW, be sure to fill out a self-issue permit, available at entry points and district offices.  And remember; keep wearing orange in the forest during the firearm’s season.
 
Our fire shop is completing the last of the gravel pit burn piles for the year.  Speaking of burn piles, if you are planning on burning brush piles at your home, you still need a burning permit until you have at least three inches of continuous snow cover.
 
When driving, take some time to reacquaint yourself with how your car handles in snow.  Check that the winter emergency kit you took out of the back and stored in the garage all summer is back in the vehicle. 
 
 
Regarding logging trucks: On the Gunflint side, you can expect log trucks on Bally Creek and The Grade.   On the Tofte side, there will be hauling on Cook County 3 near Vyre Lake, on The Grade, on FR 369 near Sawbill Landing, and on Lake County 705. 
 
Now that there is snow on the ground, our biologists are recording animal tracks.  All sorts of animals that are hard to count in the summer are easier to monitor in the winter.  Lynx may be invisible in the summer, but their tracks give them away in the winter.  We are interested in collecting any lynx sightings or suspected tracks.  If you find any, stop by or call a district office with your sighting information.
 
As Thanksgiving approaches, holiday greenery, that is, balsam boughs and trees, come to mind.  Both forest products can be gathered on the Forest with the appropriate permit.  Check our website or pick up a flyer at the district office for details on harvest limits and permit prices. 
 
That wraps up what is going on in the Superior.  Whether the snow lures you out into the woods, or drives you inside to enjoy a book and hot chocolate, make the most of it and enjoy winter.  After all, we have about four and half months of it left to go!  This has been Mary Ann Atwood with the National Forest Update.