Join Gerry Racey and Al Harris for a winter hike through parts of the Pine Bay 2 Nature Reserve and the Western Lake Superior Conservation Reserve. These make up parts of a provincially significant wetland on the shores of Pine Bay and Little Pigeon Bay on Lake Superior.  We will snowshoe into and through wetland environments including treed bog, conifer swamp and successional mixedwood. We will examine snow conditions, identify to the best of our ability animal tracks, the abundant arboreal lichens, and develop an appreciation for how northern animals, birds and plants cope with the snow and the winter environment. Snowshoes are required. Bring a hearty lunch, water, and dress appropriately for the winter conditions considering level of physical exertion, wind and temperature. The total hike length will be about 4.5 km and depending on snow conditions could represent a high level of physical exertion.  Plan on 5 hours in the bush followed by a warm-up at the Harris camp before returning to Thunder Bay. Weather forecasts will be monitored leading up to the date of the hike and an alternate date may be selected if extreme cold or blowing snow make for unsafe conditions.  

Please notify Gerry Racey (807-939-1620; gdracey@tbaytel.net) of your intent to participate. Further information will be distributed to participants prior to the outing. There will be a limit of 16 participants. Notice of intent to register should include names, email address and phone numbers of participants.

Lichens are everywhere, but wha are they good for? The unique composite organisms are consumed, constructed with, and provide camouflage for forest birds, mammals, and insects and were a fundamental foundation of the boreal forests after the most recent glaciation. These sensitive organisms are also great indicators of habitat qualities. Join me in an outing to expand the appreciation of these integral forest organisms.

A valid Ontario Park permit (either a valid seasonal or annual permit) is required. Vehicle day passes can be purchased up to 5 days in advance from the Ontario Parks website located here: https://reservations.ontarioparks.com. Day permits are $15.50 including tax.

To register, email Hanna Dorval at hannadorval@gmail.com. Meet at the Landmark Inn parking lot at 9:30 am.