Thursday, December 29, 2011

Erv's Field Notes

As many of you know, Erv Klaas was one of the principle forces behind the creation of Ada Hayden Heritage Park.  His leadership of the "Friends of Hallett's Quarry," along with Kay Berger, galvanized the community behind the project.  Erv is still leading the way at AHHP, now serving as President of the "Friends of AHHP" Board of Directors.  Erv has always been a career and personal mentor to me and it's been a privilege to have been involved in the Hallets/Hayden cause with him from early on.

Erv gets out to the park almost everyday and like a true scientist with a flair for creative writing documents his trips as his field notes.  I've asked Erv if I can share these field notes with you and he has graciously obliged.  Here is his latest version:

Field Notes 16
Tuesday, December 27, 2011, 2:30-3:30 pm
Sunny, temperature 34 degrees F., brisk wind from the Northwest

The north lake was entirely frozen over except for a small area near the bridge. The south lake was mostly open except for the west arm and a small area of ice near the outlet.

White-cheeked geese (Canada and Cackling) numbered about 700. The Snow Goose family is still here. I estimated about 100 Mallards, one female Lesser Scaup and two American Coots. I met a nice lady on the trail who told me about two deer on the wetland across the trail from the west arm of the south lake. Sure enough, two very large does were lying under a willow tree. They showed no alarm as I walked slowly past.

Peggy Ernshaw reported two eagles circling over the lake last Tuesday. Thanks Peggy.

Erv Klaas

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