As the field season continues to wind down, I am scrambling to wrap up my outdoor to-do list before winter diverts most of my efforts indoors behind a computer screen.

Last month I had the unique experience of canoeing tools and building materials to the Appalachian Trail campsite on the eastern shore of Flagstaff Lake to replace the staircase for the privy. The wind was howling and the water was choppy, but I was able to carefully paddle my way there and back without losing any company property to the depths of Flagstaff Lake.

With my BPL work mostly done for the season, I have had the opportunity to direct more of my attention elsewhere. I have spent more time corridor-clearing overgrowth on the Fly Rod Crosby Trail and recently consolidated waste and debris deposited in the Sandy River section of the trail by last December’s flooding.

Over at the Perham Stream Birding Trail, I replaced old and rotten sections of the fence along the parking area. If you want to have a seat on the fence after a long hike, I suggest sitting on the lighter-colored boards.

While I will miss spending most of my days outside, I am excited for the planning process to begin for our lofty ambitions for the next field season and of course….for skiing.

Cheers!