The French Creek Float at Wattsburg is this weekend and the weather looks like it will cooperate. It is a great time for many throughout the region to enjoy one of our most valuable resources. A lot of credit goes to the organizers of this annual event and the countless volunteers whose  help usually goes unnoticed.

The upcoming week, if the forecasts are correct, will bring a taste of near summer-like weather. Thoughts and activities are now more focused on yard work and vegetable gardens. Support our local growers when you want to purchase flowers and vegetable for the yard and garden. For some of the plant sales in the region,  Buy Local.

The upcoming weeks are also a great time to enjoy another valuable resource in our region, the woodlands. There is a spectacular, free flower show going on right now.  Pictured above are the brilliant yellow swamp marigolds in bloom which can be found in many bogs and wet areas. The native marigolds are just one of numerous species now in bloom. For more details and where to watch the show, Wildflowers.

On the Wild Side

The hummingbirds have returned, according to many reports. Several were observed in my neighborhood earlier this week (the feeder went right up after a good cleaning). The hummers are a sure sign that warm, even hot, weather is coming shortly.

Spring gobbler season runs until May 31. For more details, gobble, gobble. From now until then, hunting is legal all day (just in case, in Pennsylvania there is no hunting on Sunday).

The Full Moon is May 25. It is a Super Moon and will appear to be brighter and larger than usual. The May full moon is often called the Flower Moon, because of all the wild flowers blooming this month; the moon in May is also sometimes called the Corn Planting Moon.

Enjoy this years Super Moon with a kayak paddle on Pymatuning May 25. For more information call the Park Office at 724-932-3971 or check the Web site at http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/stateparks/findapark/pymatuning/  or here . More details  next week, as well as, some of the numerous Memorial Day (May27) events planned for the region.

Goodell Gardens

Pittsburgh-based Organic Gardening Expert Jessica Walliser will speak at Goodell Gardens on Sunday, May 19, as part of the Gardens’ Tea Time Talks lecture series.

Walliser, a former organic market grower, will share tips and techniques for growing a high-yielding, beautiful vegetable garden without a lot of fuss. Favorite varieties for organic growing as well as topics from amending your soil to pest control will be discussed. Attendees will be taught about the 4-cycle crop rotation schedule and some simple ways to attract beneficial insects to the garden.

Walliser co-hosts “The Organic Gardeners” on KDKA radio in Pittsburgh. She is a contributing editor for Organic Gardening magazine where you can read her ‘Good Bug, Bad Bug’ feature in each issue.
The Tea Time Talk featuring Walliser will be held Sunday, May 19 at 3 p.m. at Goodell Gardens. Cost for admission is $3 for members of Goodell Gardens, $7 for nonmembers, and includes refreshments from Lakeside Bagel & Deli. Registration is required. Call (814) 734-6699 or email info@goodellgardens.org to register.

Grange News – Prestigious Community Awards Granted at Two Meetings

Both Carey Giles and Marie Smith received Grange Awards for their service to community.

On April 20, the Crawford County Pomona Grange awarded it’s Community Citizen Award to Carey Giles for his time and effort during a very special time of the year.  Also at the annual Hayfield meeting, Marie Smith was  honored for her many years in the Grange with a fifty year service pin. Unable to attend was Herman Hunter who was honored with a pin for his 70 years of service in the Grange.

During the meeting, Lecturer Chester Tau, introduced the featured speaker, Carey Giles. His topic was “Lighting of Brookhouser Hill for Christmas”. He began his presentation with recollections from the World War 11 era when only a few families lived on the hill. Over the years, the Christmas Hill lighting expanded.

In other Grange news, the Crawford County Pomona Grange awarded its annual Public Service Award to members of the French Creek Rails to Trails Ernst Tail during its May 4 Visitation meeting at the Atlantic Grange. The popular and well kept trail is open from dawn to dusk, free of charge thanks to the efforts of many community volunteers and local businesses. The Ernst Trail is a great place to enjoy and relax – spring into the fun.

For more Grange News and information regarding the Ernst Trail, Grange.

Crawford County Conservation District – Woodcock Creek Nature Center

Now is the time to prepare for a late summer harvest of tasty and healthy food. Learn more at the Woodcock Creek Nature Center.

All events are free and open to the public. Registration, however, is required. It is as simple as making a phone call to the Center at 763-5269.

• “Raised Beds Gardens at the Nature Center,” Wednesday, May 22, 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Come ready to get your hands dirty! Join Maria Dreese to find out how the Woodcock Creek Nature Center’s Raised Bed Gardens got their start last year. Then help Maria and staff plant this year’s raised beds with vegetables and pollinators. Be involved in something you can watch grow this summer!

June events:
• “Terrariums…”How to,” Tuesday, June 4, from 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Terrariums can be beautiful…have you ever wanted to put one together for your house? Terry Lobdell will be showing us how. He will also be bringing a beautiful terrarium for the Nature Center! Come and see it!

• “Family Fishing,” Wednesday, June 19, 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Join the Crawford Conservation District and the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission for a late afternoon of instruction, casting and fishing! This program is open to all ages and will be held rain or shine, so come dressed for the weather. All supplies will be provided! You do not need a fishing license for this PA Fish and Boat Commission sponsored educational event. NOTE: SPECIAL REGISTRATION — Please register with the PA Fish and Boat Commission by calling Chad Foster at 814-683-5126 or register online at: http://pfbc.state.pa.us. Do not call the Nature Center for this registration!

Canadohta Lake – Some Changes But Much the Same

It will be a fun summer at Canadaohta Lake with many different events scheduled.

Following a recent Canadohta Lake Area Business Association (CLABA) meeting at the Frog Pond recently, several changes were made. The Cottage Tour event was cancelled for this year and a recycling fund raiser project has also been cancelled. Other lake events are “full steam ahead” and this year’s Breeze is at the printer. It should be ready for distribution by the holiday weekend. For more details and information, CLABA.

Happy Mother’s Day to all the Moms! Hopefully, it was a great day for all even though Mother Nature didn’t cooperate much. There’s a chance of wet snow and sleet for the next day or so and the very real possibility of frost.

The weather should improve by mid-week, hopefully.

On the Wild Side

Seems as though it has been a successful spring gobbler season for many so far. On Monday May 13, hunters can legally hunt from ½ hour before sunrise to ½ hour after sunset. The season ends of May 31^st. The daily limit is one Tom while the season limit is two birds.

Hopefully, the frost stays away from the region; the wild apples and other fruit and nut trees are in bloom.

The woods have been swampy with all of the rain the last several days but if you get the chance get out and enjoy the show. Many spring wild flowers are now blooming. The Ernst Trail, the Woodcock Creek Nature Center’s trails, Pymatuning and the Union City Dam are free, public access areas to visit and enjoy the show. The swamp marigolds, pictured above, enjoy the wet conditions.

Cambridge Springs – Quilt Study Group

The Northwestern Pennsylvania Quilt Study Group will sponsor a special workshop and lecture on May 15 and on May 16. If you enjoy quilts and/or history this should prove to be fascinating. For details and more information, Quilt History.

Audubon – From Sarah Sargent – The Timberdoodles

“For the first time my office in Meadville is going to participate in the annual Birdathon held by our state program (Audubon Pennsylvania).  We are one of four teams in the state and we are hoping to show how great our region is for birding as well as having a wonderful community of people who support our work.  Our team is named the Timberdoodles (after the nickname for American Woodcocks).  My other team members are all the current Audubon staff members who are working with me at the moment: Judy Acker (part-time, education), Jason Fidorra (temporary, shorebird monitor and bander) and Mary Birdsong (temporary, part time shorebird monitor).  We are competing with three other teams in the state, in a friendly way (mostly!).

This is a fundraising event for us, and any small (or large!) amount will help us.  We will divide our total amount raised between two programs:

1.       Bird banding at Presque Isle.  Always popular with visitors, we show visitors what birds look like up close.  We band during spring and fall migration when lots of birds are moving through.  Since 2007 we have banded close to 12,000 birds!  We recapture many of our banded birds between years, and several of ours have been recaptured elsewhere (including a Swainson’s Thrush in Mexico!). Our blog can be found at: http://pispbirdbanding.blogspot.com/

2.       Environmental Education in the French Creek watershed.  Judy Acker (former Director of the French Creek Outdoor Learning Center) goes into schools and provides 4th grade students with knowledge about the amazing diversity of aquatic organisms in their home watershed, and also conducts owl pellet workshops for 5th and 6th graders.  This early exposure to local ecological information helps to foster a sense of pride and stewardship in young residents of this special watershed.

You can pledge by species if you want to challenge us to see more species (we are hoping for 100 species for the day), or simply donate a fixed amount.

If you prefer to send a check in the mail, simply print the attached document and follow the instructions on it. Alternatively, you can donate online with a credit card. The direct link to donate to the Timberdoodles is:  http://bit.ly/11BEm4j

All donors will receive the summary report of our day and what we saw.”

Pymatuning

May 17 at 6 p.m. Learn more about the history of Pymatuning from swamp to the present day. The program opens at the Environmental Classroom – Jamestown Marina. The program includes a tour of of some areas/ Be sure to dress for the weather and there is some rough walking terrain. For directions or more information, call the park at 723-932-3142.

Crawford County Conservation District – Woodcock Creek Nature Center

All programs are free and open to the public. Please call to register at 763-5269.

• “Nature Pics Walk,” Tuesday, May 14, 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Join Kathy Uglow, Crawford Conservation District, for a relaxing late afternoon spent enjoying and exploring the outdoors and shooting a few photos. All ages welcome! Dress for the weather. Note: This is not an instructional photography class.

• “Raised Beds Gardens at the Nature Center,” Wednesday, May 22, 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Come ready to get your hands dirty! Join Maria Dreese to find out how the Woodcock Creek Nature Center’s Raised Bed Gardens got their start last year. Then help Maria and staff plant this year’s raised beds with vegetables and pollinators. Be involved in something you can watch grow this summer!

The last week of April and the beginning of May were spring perfect. Next week, according to forecasts will be much the same and perhaps at least here, time to fire up the lawn mower. For some, a curse of the springtime are brilliant yellow flowers called dandelions. Their very appearance has some rushing to garden centers for killer sprays. But the lowly Dandelion is actually a very important wild flower.  More information, Dandelion.

For many, it is also vegetable garden time. Lettuce and many other salad greens, peas, potatoes, red beets can all be safely planted. These early spring crops can take a slight frost.

Many of the local farmers are glad to see the drier and warmer conditions, according to Ginny Shreve at the Erie-Crawford Co-op. April was a soggy month and it was next to impossible to get equipment in the fields for an early spring planting. On the plus side, the extra moisture will likely mean a good hay crop in about a month. The dry conditions last spring helped to create some local shortages of hay.

The woods are colorful with many native flowers blooming. Pictured above are some trout lilies which began to bloom last week at least in this neighborhood. The May Apples and the trilliums are also emerging; the leeks are perfect for digging.

As a reminder, be careful with outdoor fires. The fields and woods are dry and we have had some gusty and brisk southerly winds which are likely to continue.

On the Wild Side

Turkey season continues until May 31. Until May 11, the season begins at ½ hour before sunrise and ends at noon. Beginning on May 13, the legal hunting times are ½ hour before sunrise and ends at ½ hour after sunset. Only bearded birds can be harvested; the season limit is two while the daily limit is one bird.

The birds have been gobbling all week now.

It was also a great week for the tout anglers with near perfect weather conditions.

Canadohta Lake

Peggy Lloyd of Canadohta Lake died last week. She was one of the oldest members of the Canadohta Lake Area Business Association (CLABA).

From Ann Begheim, the current president of the association: “She was a wonderful woman who had a very long history here at the lake. Her rentals have been visited by so many over the years and memories have been made with her presence here, year after year. Godspeed to our CLABA member and friend.”

Crawford County Conservation District

Brian Pilarcik of the Conservation District has been pretty busy lately. He has been directing and overseeing a lot of tree plantings. Also , doing much of the manual labor, have been 250 high school students from school throughout the region. For more information, Trees.

A special note from Lynn Sandieson : The joint Crawford/Mercer Envirothon will be at Pymatuning, Shelter #4 on May 8 from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Here is what is happening at the Woodcock Creek Nature Center:

• “Dig It…Medicinal Herbs & Plants in our Backyard,” Monday, May 6, from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Allegheny College Professor of Global Health and Development, Liz Olson, and her students will show us what type of medicinal plants and herbs are available in this region of Pennsylvania. Learn how to identify, grow, and use some of these plants and herbs through fun hands-on activities! A learning experience for all ages — everyone will craft their own herbal remedy to take home!

• “Nature Pics Walk,” Tuesday, May 14, 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Join Kathy Uglow, Crawford Conservation District, for a relaxing late afternoon spent enjoying and exploring the outdoors and shooting a few photos. All ages welcome! Dress for the weather. Note: This is not an instructional photography class.

• “Raised Beds Gardens at the Nature Center,” Wednesday, May 22, 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Come ready to get your hands dirty! Join Maria Dreese to find out how the Woodcock Creek Nature Center’s Raised Bed Gardens got their start last year. Then help Maria and staff plant this year’s raised beds with vegetables and pollinators. Be involved in something you can watch grow this summer!

The events are free and open to the public. However, registration is required. It is simple, just call the nature center at 814.763. 5269

Goodell Gardens

The weather is great and Goodell Gardens is now open. For more information, Goodell.

Here re two upcoming events:

National Public Gardens Day, Friday, May 10
In celebration of National Public Gardens Day, we will be offering FREE ADMISSION on Friday, May 10 from 11 am to 5 pm. Stop by for a self-guided tour!  

Mother’s Day-FREE ADMISSION for Moms, Sunday, May 12
Treat mom to a stroll through our beautiful gardens on Sunday, May 12. We’re offering free admission for Moms from 11 am to 5 pm. Sorry dads and kids, you’ll still have to pay regular admission.

 

 

Maybe spring weather is finally here and the cold and snow will end this week.  It seems as if winter was almost endless this past year and everyone is waiting for the real spring warmth to arrive. The forecasts indicate the upcoming week might just bring better and warmer weather. That is good news for farmers, backyard gardeners and those who burn wood for heat.

A great place to visit during the spring and one of the “best kept secrets around” is the Union City Dam. Pictured above are two residents of Las Vegas who visit the dam frequently when they visit the region.  For more information on the Union City Dam, click Best Secret.

On the Wild Side

Spring gobbler opens this Saturday. Hopefully, weather conditions will be better than the last several Saturdays of trout season; the creeks were running high and muddy.

Spring Gobbler opens on April 27 from ½ hour before sunrise to noon until May 11. On May 13 and until May 31 the legal hunting time is from ½ hour before sunrise to ½ after sunrise.

Only bearded birds, Tom’s, may be harvested. The limit is one tom per day and the season limit is two toms. Check your Game Commission rule books for more information regarding the firearms which can be legally used during the season.

CCSEC

The Crawford County Senior Environmental Corps is active in many projects throughout the region.

The Crawford County Senior Environmental Corps (CCSEC) will meet Thursday May2 at the Woodcock Creek Nature Center on German Rd at 1 p.m. The meeting is free and open to the public. The meetings generally last about 1 hour.

The guest speaker for the meeting will be Gary Clark. According to Dick Runnels, the chairperson for the group, Clark is retired from DEP and the topic of his presentation will center on gas well in the region, past and present. It is a timely topic for the region as more and more “fracking” is expected in the region which brings with it a whole host of questions and concerns for many property owners,

CCSEC is an organization actively involved in supporting many community groups such as the Conservation District, Allegheny College Creek Critters, and Pymatuning State Park. The organization is active in events such as tree plantings, fish habitat cribs, and water quality monitoring.

CCSEC is open to everyone 44 years of age and over, although younger members are welcome to participate. For more information, CCSEC or call the Conservation District at 763-5269.

Canadohta Lake

Following a recent Canadohta Lake Area Business Association (CLABA) meeting at the Frog Pond, a decision was reached to discontinue for at least 2013 the aluminum can collection and the Cottage Tours. More details next week as well as the ongoing problems with golf carts on the roads and highways.

Ann Bergheim also noted that the new CLABA Web page is up and running. It is a great page to find the needed information on a wide range of CLABA programs and events. It can be discovered at canadohtalake.org

The new Web page took a lot of hard work from both Geri Barker and Beverly Rapp. Good work!

Safe Driving Classes Offered

Safe driving classes are being offered at both the Active Aging Center in Meadville and at the Union city Senior Center. For more information on these important classes, , click Safe Driving.

Crawford County Conservation District – Woodcock Creek Nature Center

The medicinal herb, bonset, grows throughout the region and is useful in treating flu symptoms.

All events are open to the public and in general free of charge unless there is a cost for materials. Please call the Woodcock Nature to register (required) The telephone number is 814. 763.5269.

May events:

• “Dig It…Medicinal Herbs & Plants in our Backyard,” Monday, May 6, from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Allegheny College Professor of Global Health and Development, Liz Olson, and her students will show us what type of medicinal plants and herbs are available in this region of Pennsylvania. Learn how to identify, grow, and use some of these plants and herbs through fun hands-on activities! A learning experience for all ages — everyone will craft their own herbal remedy to take home!

• “Nature Pics Walk,” Tuesday, May 14, 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Join Kathy Uglow, Crawford Conservation District, for a relaxing late afternoon spent enjoying and exploring the outdoors and shooting a few photos. All ages welcome! Dress for the weather. Note: This is not an instructional photography class.

• “Raised Beds Gardens at the Nature Center,” Wednesday, May 22, 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Come ready to get your hands dirty! Join Maria Dreese to find out how the Woodcock Creek Nature Center’s Raised Bed Gardens got their start last year. Then help Maria and staff plant this year’s raised beds with vegetables and pollinators. Be involved in something you can watch grow this summer!

Goodell Gardens – Make and Take Worm Box

Visit Goodell Gardens this spring and enjoy the beauty of Mother Nature and learn valuable techniques to use around the home and the backyard.

Learn how to make and take care of worms to make compost out of kitchen scraps on Sunday May 5 at the Events Barn. Class begins at 3 p.m. and will be led by Penn State Master Gardeners Judi Vespoli and Maria Blakeslee.

Cost is #15 for members, $20 for non-members. Registration fee includes the material to make a worm box and the worms.

Pre-registration is required for this first Tea Time Talks. To register, info@goodellgardens.com or call 814.734.669

Signs of Spring Today April 26, 2013

SPECIAL

Ann Bergheim, the current president of the Canadohta Lake Area Business Association (CLABA), has had one heck of a nerve wracking week. Ann’s 25 year old daughter Sara, lives in an apartment in the Boston area just a short distance from alleged Marathon Bomber’s apartment.

“Like everyone else in the area, she can’t leave the apartment and all day Friday she was watching the live news reports,” Ann said. “Ever since the bombing on Monday, we have talked several times a day and chatted online. In fact, we were talking almost immediately after the bombs went off. I just wish this whole thing would end soon.”

Sarah Hopson, Ann’s daughter, is a graduate of Union City High School, was the recipient of a Legion scholarship, and then attended Gannon University before going to Boston to attend school. She will turn 25 in May.

“I’ve been to Boston to visit her several times and I just really like the city and the people,” Ann said. “The people of Boston show great courage and kindness and truly represent the real picture of what America is all about. We need to keep the people of Boston in our prayers as well as those in Texas following that horrible explosion.”

Update: Shortly after this interview was conducted and published, police in Boston at *;45 p.m. announced the second suspect had been taken into custody. Crowds in Boston cheered and Ann took to her Facebook page and cheered as well. Both she and her daughter separated by hundreds of miles will have a much better weekend. Now attention will once again re-focus on those killed and injured.

On the Wild Side

Looks like another weekend of snow and blustery conditions for the anglers in search of a trout dinner. The creeks, similar to last week, will likely be running high and muddy.

The weather next week, according to forecasts will moderate somewhat (hopefully).Spring gobbler for younger hunters also opens up this Saturday.

The leeks emerged in the woods this past week, at least in my neighborhood. Perhaps, next week they should be large enough to dig. It seems whenever the garden garlic garlic emerges from it’s raised beds, it’s time to get in the woods and check the tasty leeks.

Crawford County Conservation District – Woodcock Creek Nature Center

While the forecasts call for a somewhat rainy week ahead, the temperatures will be in the fifties and perhaps the sixties. There is the chance of some flooding with the run-off and rains, stay tuned to local reports in your area.

It is good to see the early spring flowers and plants begin to emerge over the weekend.

Be careful of the ice, it is not safe and is breaking up fast. It won’t be long and the the lily pads and frogs will replace the ice. I’ve known several people who have fallen through, luckily no injuries except for embarrassment.

On the Wild Side

April brings two important outdoor holidays; the opening day of trout on April 13 and the first day of spring gobbler on April 23.

Chances are we will hear the spring peepers some night this week, followed by the spring leeks. The weather this week will also keep the beekeepers busy. The weather will waken the hives and the bees will be hungry this spring because of a short nectar supply from the golden rods this past fall.

The warm weather will bring the region’s first harvest to end. By most accounts it was a good maple season and there was a good sap run. Producers pull the taps when the weather warms since it is needed by the swelling leaf buds on the tree.

The Maple Festival in Edinboro and the Taste and Tour Open House at local Sugar House was well attended, although on Saturday with the wintery weather some numbers down.

Pymatuning

Creek Critters

Get in on the fun and discover the amazing world of aquatic insects on Saturday April 20 at 10 a.m.. Meet at the Park Office and be sure to wear boots and dress for the weather. For directions and /or more information, call the park office at 724-932-3142.

Clean-Up Day

Two days later on April 22, the Park will conduct a general clean-up of the shoreline areas. Volunteers are needed for the pre-summer clean up and if you or your organization can help please call the park office for more information and so that adequate supplies can be on hand. The park will provide gloves and trash bags. Be sure to dress for the weather. The number to contact for more information or to volunteer is 724932-3142.

Hickernell United Methodist Church

The Hickernell United Methodist Church will hold a rummage and bake sale on Saturday, April 13^th from 7:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the church on the Springboro Road.  Delicious homemade baked goods will be available and free coffee.  Proceeds of the sale will be used for local mission projects.  The Church is located three miles west of Route 98 on Springboro Road and is completely handicapped accessible.

Crawford County Conservation District – Woodcock Creek Nature Center

• “Garden Without Weeds? What?” Wednesday, April 10, 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Weeds, who needs them? Bertha Mesarch, Penn State Master Gardeners, will show us several different ways to grow our own plants and minimize those pesky weeds! Learn ways to deal with weeds, container gardening, “mounds,” and more.

• “Spring Warbler Walk,” Tuesday, April 16, 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Judy Acker, Audubon French Creek Outreach Coordinator, will lead us on a spring bird walk. Meet at the Woodcock Creek Nature Center. Bring binoculars if you have them!

• The 34th Annual Tree Sale Distribution will be Friday, April 19, from 10:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. at the Crawford County Fairgrounds at Home Show Building #1. For more information or order forms call: 814-763-5269 or go to www.crawfordconservation.com. All orders are due by Friday, March 22, 2013.

• “Nature Center Field Trip…Aquaponics Investigation,” Wednesday, April 24, 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Meet at Allegheny College Carr Hall Lobby (directions available) to find out how to garden using an aquaponics system. Thomas Eatmon, Environmental Science Dept., will demonstrate some working aquaponics systems…find out what he is growing! Also take a look at the new Allegheny College Environmental Science Department and see the “living wall.”

ALL Woodcock Creek Nature Center events require pre-registration. The programs are free and open to the public, unless otherwise specified. Call Kathy Uglow at 814-763-5269 to register or for more information. Event information is also available at http://www.crawfordconservation.com. All children under 12 should be accompanied by an adult. Please let us know if you require special accommodations.

No outdoor picnics were likely held the first day of spring 2013.

The snow the last several days has kept plow drivers and sledders moving and happy. Many others just let out groans and comments about the groundhog and the first day of spring snowstorm.

The upcoming week is predicted to be much of the same. Easter attire could well be winter clothing and boots this year.

On the Wild Side

The cold weather and snow has a wide variety of birds feeding at backyard bird feeders. The birds don’t seem to be very impressed, particularly the robins which came back several weeks ago. Flocks of them have been eating the dense reddish sumac fruit called sumac bobs instead of worms.

The cold weather does have one wild benefit, a tiny, invasive insect which is killing the Eastern Hemlock, Pennsylvania’s State Tree, can’t survive the western PA winters. Our forests are also under threat for the Emerald Ash Borer and the Asian Longhorn Beetle. One bright spot for our woodlands is the English Oak tree, according DCNR Forester Mark Lewis. Learn more and a little something about the English Oak and about some troublesome  pests at, Tree.

Valerie Myers, a writer for GO Erie had a good, fun article on crows. The birds watch me every time I am in the yard. Maybe, I’ll start waving and saying “hello”.

Crawford County Senior Environmental Corps (CCSE)

One of the many volunteer projects of the Senior Corps is constructing fish cribs every summer.

The next meeting of the CCSEC will be on April 4 at the Woodcock Creek Nature Center. The meetings, always the first Thursday of the month, begins at 1 p.m. According to Dick Runnels, chairperson for the group, the meetings generally last an hour. The general public and those who would be interested in attending and prospective members are welcome.

There is normally a guest speaker at each meeting. The topic for discussion on April 4 will be geology and fracking.

CCSEC is involved in many different outdoor projects with various groups throughout the county. The group works closely with the Conservation District and volunteers to help with Creek Connections, building fish cribs and is involved in many water testing and water quality programs. It is easy to get involved. Attend the April 4 meeting or call the Conservation District at 763-5269.

Northwestern PA Beekeepers Association

The local beekeepers will meet on April 27 at Our Lady of the Lakes Social Hall in Edinboro. The meeting begins at 1 p.m. and last until 3 p.m. According to Kirk Johnson, the president of the organization, there will also be a swap at the meeting where beekeepers can exchange equipment. The topic of discussion will revolve around the best ways to split a hive.

The meetings are a great place to learn about the ancient art of keeping bees particularly for those just stepping into the challenging field.

Sam Hossler

Sam Hossler could often be found fishing on Canadohta Lake and organizing the Kids Fishing Day for CLABA.

The latest novel from Sam Hossler is now available for sale. “, Beasts of the Frontier. This is the sequel to Silversmith Chronicles and if I do say so myself it’s even more exciting. Follow Jake and Ned on what was supposed to be a winter hunting trip in the wilds of Northwest Pennsylvania. It wasn’t long before they came across giant bear foot prints. Or was it a  bear? They suspected the killer werewolf from Salem Crossroads was also in this territory. Settlers and the Indian Cornplanter village have been raided by this strange beast and werewolf. Read how the boys lay a trap for the werewolf but make a dangerous enemy of the beast, and what about the lovely Maria? Will one of the boys propose marriage? The answer to these, and other questions, are found in the pages of BEASTS OF THE FRONTIER. “

Sam is a former resident of Canadohta Lake and was active in the Canadohta Lake Area Business Association. For more information, please visit, wwwsamhosslerwriter.com

Crawford County Conservation District – Woodcock Creek Nature Center

For anyone feeling “down” because of the late wintery weather, these two March programs will help add a touch of the tropics. Events are free and open to the public. Just call the Woodcock Creek Nature Center to register. The number is 763-5269.

• “Volcanoes,” Tuesday, March 26, 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Allegheny College student Lucas Carrion will be teaching us about volcanoes from all over the world. Find out where volcanoes form and why different types exist in different areas. We will watch videos of eruptions and well as see pictures and actual rock samples.

• “Fresh and Salt Water Aquariums,” Wednesday, March 27, 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Vince LaRochelle will share his experiences with both fresh and salt water aquariums and answer any questions you may have about them. Also, for fun, he will present a short video of his Indonesian scuba diving adventures.

Canadohta Lake

The fireworks display at the lake this year will be held on July 6 with a rain date of July 7, according to Ann Bergheim. She is the president of the Canadohta Lake Area Business Association (CLABA). According to Ann the fireworks will be even better and bigger this year. July 4 this year falls on a Thursday.

Ann is also asking for information regarding firewood for sale in the lake area. Quality, seasoned hardwood is needed  in particular for those who use wood stoves year round. It is an added plus if the seller is a member of CLABA If you cut and sell firewood or know of a contact in the lake area, please contact this blog below at spinksgreg@gmail.com, of contact Ann Bergheim.

The East Egg Hunt for kids scheduled for March 22 was canceled because of deep snow and bitter cold. It could be re-scheduled to happened in the next week or so.

Calvary Baptist Christian Academy

The Academy will hold it’s 5 Annual Thunder Run at Roche Park on April 6. For more information and a registration fee CBCA and click on Events.

Welcome to the Snow and Mud Season! The mild weather last week melted much of the snow and made some ice very dangerous on local ponds, lakes and creeks. With the advent of the Snow and Mud Season, the spring robins returned. They have been spotted nearly everywhere now but disappeared somewhat with the snow and cold at mid-week. Unsettled and cold weather will be on hand for much of the upcoming week, according to most forecasts.

This is also Maple Season season and the producers are quite busy boiling the sap. Maple Syrup is the First Harvest of the new year. For an overview of how some different Sugar House and producers got started and how they boil, click, Sugar House.

Also see On the Wild Side below for information the popular Taste and Tour Open House and the Edinboro Maple Festival this weekend. A special thanks to the Edinboro Area Historical Society for the old time photograph above. It shows John Leroy Showman driving a team in 1945 gathering sp on the Showman farm with his grandfather and namesake John Leroy Showman.

On the Wild Side

Laura Dengler demostrates some of the features of her Sugar House kitchen, How Sweet It Is, to visitors

Maple Syrup season is now in high gear. The sap was running over much of the past weekend when the temperatures soared into the mid-fifties in many areas. Speaking with several producers earlier this week, they were -well- sounded tired and exhausted.

The maple producers are also preparing for popular Taste and Tour Open House at many local sugar houses this weekend. It’s an educational and family fun time. Also this weekend, the Edinboro Area Historical Society will sponsor their annual Maple Festival at the Edinboro Fire Hall. For more information on both events – Maple Syrup

While maple syrup is the first harvest harvest of 2013, the second harvest will quickly follow – the wild leeks. Last year, at least in this neighborhood, they could be dug by March 20.

Crawford County Conservation District – Woodcock Creek Nature Center

The Crawford County Conservation District recently held their annual banquet at the Days Inn in Meadville. More information below.

The awards baquet held by the Crawford County Conservation District was held on Feb. 23. For more information – Banquet.

All educational events are free and open to the public. Registration, however, is required. It is rather simple, just call the Nature Center and let them know. The number is 763-5269.

• “Volcanoes,” Tuesday, March 26, 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Allegheny College student Lucas Carrion will be teaching us about volcanoes from all over the world. Find out where volcanoes form and why different types exist in different areas. We will watch videos of eruptions and well as see pictures and actual rock samples.

• “Fresh and Salt Water Aquariums,” Wednesday, March 27, 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Vince LaRochelle will share his experiences with both fresh and salt water aquariums and answer any questions you may have about them. Also, for fun, he will present a short video of his Indonesian scuba diving adventures.

April events:

• “Wildlife Coming Your Way,” Tuesday, April 2, from 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. If you have questions about the status of bears, bobcats, fishers, otters or bats in NW PA, then this is the program you won’t want to miss! Shyne Hoachlander, Land Management Group Supervisor, PA Game Commission, will give us the latest information on these species.

• “Garden Without Weeds? What?” Wednesday, April 10, 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Weeds, who needs them? Bertha Mesarch, Penn State Master Gardeners, will show us several different ways to grow our own plants and minimize those pesky weeds! Learn ways to deal with weeds, container gardening, “mounds,” and more.

• “Spring Warbler Walk,” Tuesday, April 16, 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Judy Acker, Audubon French Creek Outreach Coordinator, will lead us on a spring bird walk. Meet at the Woodcock Creek Nature Center. Bring binoculars if you have them!

• The 34th Annual Tree Sale Distribution will be Friday, April 19, from 10:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. at the Crawford County Fairgrounds at Home Show Building #1. For more information or order forms call: 814-763-5269 or go to www.crawfordconservation.com. All orders are due by Friday, March 22, 2013

Bees

The next meeting of the NW PA Beekeepers Association will be held on April 27 in Edinboro. The meeting will be held at Our Lady of the Lake Church from 1 to 3 p.m. For anyone who wants to learn the ancient art of raising bees, this is a great opportunity to learn more and meet experienced beekeepers. Following the leeks as a second harvest, there will be spring honey.

According to Charles Vorisek, a Linesville beekeeper, early reports on bee survival this past winter are not encouraging. Weather conditions last summer and in the early winter contributed to the problem along with troublesome mites. More on the bees and the third harvest next week.

Canadohta Lake – Easter Egg Hunt

The Bloomfield Township Easter Egg Hunt will be held on Saturday, March 23 at noon. The hunt will be centered at the municipal building. Have the kids bring a bag to take home their eggs and prizes. The event for children under the age of ten is sponsored by the Bloomfield Township Recreation Board.

Fishing Report

Darl Blacks next fishing report will be released on March 20. Be wary and careful on any remaining ice.

Pond Workshop Scheduled – from Brain Pilarcik of Crawford Conservation District

Ellwood City, Pa. — To address the basics of pond management, Susan Boser from Penn State Extension, and representatives from the Beaver and Lawrence County Conservation Districts, will offer a workshop from 9:00 AM until 12:30 PM on Saturday, March 23^rd. The program will be presented at the Ellwood City Municipal Building, Second Floor Auditorium, Room 211, 525 Lawrence Avenue, Ellwood City, PA 16117.

Ponds can provide many recreational benefits to homeowners, but they have their share of problems. During the program, Boser and others will offer tips and advice on common pond problems and proper management. The program involves presentations as well as a question and answer session.

“The most frequent questions involve the control of aquatic plants and weeds,” says Boser, “so we’ll spend time discussing how to identify and control nuisance plants and algae. We also get a lot of questions about fisheries, so we’ll discuss the best kinds of fish to stock, the species to avoid and how to harvest to keep the populations balanced.”

The cost of the program is $15.00. Pre-register by March 19^th to insure your place as space is limited. For more information on the program, contact Lauren Anderson, Lawrence County Conservation District (724.656.2474) or Marty Warchol, Beaver County Conservation District (724.378.1701).

I was reminded of an old truism the other day – the fifth season in northwestern Pennsylvania. Sure we have Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter but there’s also the Snow and Mud Season between late winter and early spring. The fifth season is actually knocking on the backdoor now.

The Snow and Mud Season is generally known for the year’s first harvest (see On the Wild Side below).

However, before the Fifth Season arrives in earnest, the forecasts indicate we may have to endure another cold and snowy week. March – in like a lion, out like a lamb or March Madness?

On the Wild Side

The first harvest of the year, which can be gathered during “snow and mud” season is about to begin.- Maple Syrup. The maple producers were all busy the last several weeks tapping trees and preparing for the sap run when the warmer temperatures arrive.

Unfortunately Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) in Pennsylvania wild deer herd, according to the Pennsylvania Game Commission. While the disease is apparently not harmful humans, it is fatal to the deer. The three cases were discovered in southeastern areas of the state. More information at CWD.

Crawford County Conservation District – Woodcock Creek Nature Center

The District is currently selling tree seedlings for it’s annual sale. The proceeds help to fund many of the educational programs at the Woodcock Creek Nature Center. For more information, http://www.crawfordconservation.com/

March events:

• “No Leaves! What Tree is it?” Tuesday, March 5, from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Mark Lewis, Service Forester, PA Bureau of Forestry, will lead a walk starting at the Nature Center and identify some of Pennsylvania’s common trees. Learn how to tell one tree from another when there are no leaves to help. Dress for the weather.

• “Late Afternoon Mystery Matinee…with Popcorn!” Wednesday, March 13, 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Join Kathy Uglow, Crawford Conservation District, for a relaxing and fun late afternoon! She will project two animal videos that will both entertain and amaze…and YOU WILL VOTE on which ones we watch! Possible subjects are: Bats, Timber Rattlesnakes, Allegheny Woodrats, Otters and Osprey. Which two will it be?

• “Volcanoes,” Tuesday, March 26, 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Allegheny College student Lucas Carrion will be teaching us about volcanoes from all over the world. Find out where volcanoes form and why different types exist in different areas. We will watch videos of eruptions and well as see pictures and actual rock samples.

• “Fresh and Salt Water Aquariums,” Wednesday, March 27, 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Vince LaRochelle will share his experiences with both fresh and salt wter aquariums and answer any questions you may have about them. Also, for fun, he will present a short video of his Indonesian scuba diving adventures.

Canadohta Lake

The February 23 ice fishing contest sponsored by Timberland Bait Shop was a huge success, according to Gerry Van Tassel. The were some large fish caught by the 174 anglers who ventured out on the ice. More information on Friday or visit TimberlandBait.com

Union City

The Union City Volunteer Fire Department will have a scalloped potatoes and ham dinner on Sunday, March 10. The dinner will begin at 11:30 a.m. and end when the food runs out.

The weather has certainly been up and down the last week. Perhaps, it is a sign of approaching spring as winter battles warmer temperatures. In this neighborhood there was about a foot of snow last week. The high winds for several days pushed the snow into some impressive drifts. The weekend weather and for the first part of the week will make the maple producers happier. If the forecasts remain true, the daytime should see temperatures at forty degrees or higher and lows will drop below freezing.

The cold this week brought other smiles. The Canadohta Lake Ice Fishing Tournament, after being canceled earlier, will happen this Saturday. The event was canceled because the ice was not safe. For more information on this popular event, timberlandbait.com

On the Wild Side

This is a good time of the year to walk the woods and fields and search for deer sheds. (Well, once some the snow melts). This is the time of the year when bucks usually loose their antlers, another sign of approaching spring.

Last year, in this neighborhood, the spring peeps started on March 15 and a few days later the leeks could be dug. Sure signs of spring, similar to maple syrup buckets.

Maple Syrup Season – Open House Taste and Tour and the Edinboro Maple Festival

March 16 and 17 is more than green beer and shamrocks in northwestern Pennsylvania. Area maple producers will host an open taste and tour program at participating sugar shacks and the Edinboro Historical Society will host the annual Maple Festival.

The Taste and Tour program will features various free demonstrations and there will be plenty of free samples for visitors to enjoy. Each day the event at local sugar shacks opens at 10 a.m. And ends around 4 p.m. Maple syrup and maple products will also be available for purchase. Enjoy and discover the ancient of making maple syrup. For a list of the participating sugar shacks, click pa maple.org

The Maple Festival in Edinboro will be held at the Edinboro Fire Hall on Erie Street each day, March 16 and 17. The popular event features a pancake breakfast with real, homegrown maple syrup, an arts and craft show, plenty of live entertainment and numerous activities for children. Like the taste and tour program, the festival is a fun family oriented event. The Fireball is located on South Meadville Street. More information will be posted on Edinborohistory.org

Grange News

Atlantic Grange will host the March 2^nd quarterly meeting beginning with a tureen lunch at noon. Those attending should take a tureen, table service and beverages will be provided by the Host Grange.   The afternoon session will open at 1:30 with the program presented by Julia Catalano, Director of Consumer Relations of the Marquette Hospice House.  Granges are requested to donate cleaning and paper supplies for use at the Hospice House.

The business meeting will follow the program with reports from Committees, a devotional program in charge of Nancy Holler, Pomona Chaplain, and consideration of resolutions.  Granges having resolutions to submit should do so by February 23^rd to Patty Lou Pardee, Secretary.  The afternoon business session is scheduled to conclude by 5:00 p.m.

Crawford County Conservation District – Woodcock Creek Nature Center

Don’t forget to check out the Conservation District’s tree seedling sale. Order should be placed by March 20. For more information call the District at 763-5269 or visit their Web page at crawfordconservation.com The seedling sale helps to fund the environmental education programs some of which are listed below. All events are free and open to the public, just be sure to call ahead and register.

For a breathe of springtime

• “Dive into Coral Reefs,” Tuesday, February 26, 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Jack Meeder, Allegheny College Departments of Environmental Science and Geology, will share his photos and experiences with coral and coral reefs with us. We will also have the opportunity to examine some fine examples of corals from his collection!

• “No Leaves! What Tree is it?” Tuesday, March 5, from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Mark Lewis, Service Forester, PA Bureau of Forestry, will lead a walk starting at the Nature Center and identify some of Pennsylvania’s common trees. Learn how to tell one tree from another when there are no leaves to help. Dress for the weather.

• “Late Afternoon Mystery Matinee…with Popcorn!” Wednesday, March 13, 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Join Kathy Uglow, Crawford Conservation District, for a relaxing and fun late afternoon! She will project two animal videos that will both entertain and amaze…and YOU WILL VOTE on which ones we watch! Possible subjects are: Bats, Timber Rattlesnakes, Allegheny Woodrats, Otters and Osprey. Which two will it be?

• “Volcanoes,” Tuesday, March 26, 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Allegheny College student Lucas Carrion will be teaching us about volcanoes from all over the world. Find out where volcanoes form and why different types exist in different areas. We will watch videos of eruptions and well as see pictures and actual rock samples.

• “Fresh and Salt Water Aquariums,” Wednesday, March 27, 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Vince LaRochelle will share his experiences with both fresh and salt water aquariums and answer any questions you may have about them. Also, for fun, he will present a short video of his Indonesian scuba diving adventures.