Wildersmith on the Gunflint: May 22

The Gunflint spring has been on hold since we last met on the radio. Cool to cold temps and mostly cloudy skies have been the order. As you might recall from last week's scoop, I mentioned snow was predicted for the area. And, for the out-of-the-area audience, yes it did snow in the wee morning hours of May 12th. By daybreak our spring forest was decked out in the usual beauty of snow. White fluffiness stuck to every woodsy appendage. Some places measured up to an inch. Snow was a “no harm, no foul” scene for growing things though, as by the following afternoon we were back to brown ground with scattered green shoots.

Since winter's flashback, the territory has experienced a couple minor rain shower opportunities, all of which have at least temporarily tempered wildfire danger. However, the hope for more of such liquid applications does not go away.

By the way, as I key this week's scoop, it's “deja vu” with a forecast of another white border country lacing. We’ll know if it came to pass by air time this weekend.

While our weather ran a “foul” note over the past seven, I’ve been alerted to a few “fowl” happenings. Two of these come from the folks down at Cross River Lodge. The first tells of 5 trumpeter swans landing on the Gunflint waters near their west end shores. This sighting alone is pretty neat, but having them actually perform trumpeting skills in an impromptu concert is even more awesome.

Many residents in lake country have been adopted by wild ducks at one time or another. Such is also the case at Cross River Lodge. I’m told a pair of Mallard ducks have been returning for 4 consecutive years, and the quacking pair is back once again to make it a quintuplet. The pair has been tabbed “Donald and Clara,” and have made themselves right at home with high expectations for regular rations. I suppose the two will soon present family additions to the bread line.

Another bird report comes from Sag Bay at Chik-Wauk Museum and Nature Center. I was there this past week for a chimney/roof issue and observed the resident loon pair has returned to nesting digs. Happy days are here once more as mama loon is sitting on what must be the next generation. Remembering last year, the two did not hatch any offspring. This incubating exercise will merit watching for the next month to see what happens. The “Loon Cam” from the museum will be focused so folks can keep track of the activity on a day to day basis.

Speaking of the Chik-Wauk Museum, the facility opens Saturday, beginning its sixth season. Hours of operation continue from 10:00 am until 5:00 pm daily. Gunflint history buffs will want to get in there and see this year's new temporary exhibit, entitled “The Paper Trail.” The display is a collection of writings, diaries and journals authored by any number of Gunflint Trail pioneers.

One more note in regard to the Museum site, the Gunflint Trail Historical Society (GTHS) is excited to announce that construction has been started on the new Nature Center facility. The building is scheduled for completion by summer's end with exhibit installation to follow for a visitors' grand opening a year from now. The GTHS has again enlisted the design group at Split Rock Studios (SRS) for exhibit presentations. The GTHS Nature Center Content Committee has been working hard with SRS and it looks to be an outstanding venture, enabling and enhancing more of the historic Gunflint lore. There may be a bit of construction inconvenience in the parking area, but visitors should not be discouraged from coming up for more of the Chik-Wauk magic, and to watch as the new facility takes shape.

Memorial Day weekend has slipped up on us quickly this year. Area folks are reminded Sunday marks the annual fund-raising pancake feed over at YMCA Camp Menogyn. Are you “Hungry Jack?” Serving time is from 9:00 am ‘til noon. Meet at the landing on West Bearskin Lake for the pontoon jaunt to hot cakes, sausage and a reconnection with friends and neighbors.

Keep on, hangin’ on, and savor the beginning of our summer Gunflint season!