Blast Match Fire Starter

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Get Off The Couch

Wax Those Skis and Get Ready for 50 Miles

Mary Jo Bakker and Ellen Lightle work to remove a stump from a ski trail at Crystal Valley. Plenty of labor is required before snow season to ensure good trails.

by Joan H. Young

Within 50 miles of Ludington you can cross-country ski 50 miles of groomed trails, and if that’s not enough to get you through a winter, there are another 50 miles that are open for, and somewhat designed for skiing but are not groomed.

High on the list of exciting news is that two additional loops are being opened this year at the Crystal Valley Ski Trails, bringing the total miles of trail at that location to 10. Crystal Valley and the Pentwater Pathway, with over 7 miles, are groomed and maintained by the Oceana Cross Country Ski Association. Both of these trails are in wooded hills with occasional open areas, and have loops ranging from easy to difficult.

Big M, just east of Manistee has the most miles of groomed trail– about 18. The six loops there range from beginner to definitely difficult. These trails are maintained by volunteers of the Manistee Cross Country Ski Council. Big M is within the Udell Hills, a circle of unusually steep terrain for the local area. It is the site of a former downhill ski slope. Daily $3 or yearly pass required from the Manistee National Forest.

Ludington State Park grooms the 2.5 mile Logging Trail and four loops at the south end of the park for an additional 6.5 miles of trail. Trails traverse both wooded areas and shrubby dunes. State Park Entrance Fee required.

Pine Valley Pathway is located in Lake County on M-37, north of Baldwin. The 8 miles of trail there are groomed by the Michigan DNR. This is another wooded area of mixed hardwoods and conifers, with easy to moderate skill level required.

In addition to these groomed trails there are several popular local areas for skiing if you are willing to settle for conditions that might be a bit rougher. Perhaps the most popular of these is Bowman Lake, southwest of Baldwin. The parking area is plowed in winter, and there are 6 miles of trails (and another 3 of North Country Trail). The inner 3 miles are the most skied. There will usually be tracks to follow unless you are the first traveler after a snowfall. Bowman Lake area is a delightful glacially carved region of small hills and kettle holes, and the lake itself is always a brilliant gem in winter.

Several other nearby trails are open to skiing and have plowed parking. Scottville Riverside Park has about one mile of trail. Not all of it is well marked, but you can ski around on the easy terrain, and it’s very close to the population centers of Mason County.

West Shore Community College opens its cross-country course, and short nature trail to skiers in the winter. These trails follow a creek, and then wander across a rolling field resulting in a medium difficulty run.

The Ludington School Forest has another 3 miles of easy trail through both wooded and open sandy areas. Parking may be occasionally plowed, Sherman Road edge parking is suggested.

Orchard Beach State Park has 2.5 miles of easy to moderate trails. Parking is occasionally plowed, but there is space on the road edge.

The entire Hart-Montague Rail Trail is open for skiing, but it is also open to snowmobiles if there are more than four inches of snow cover, so this may be less than appealing. Of course it is entirely near-level, so it also offers less interest for anyone other than a novice skier.

Two other Lake County Trails on state land are open to skiing but you will need to park wherever you can manage to get off road. There are 4 miles of Silver Creek Pathway which loop along both sides of Silver Creek near Luther. And the Sheep Ranch Pathway has two loops for a total of 4.5 miles of trail just east of Baldwin. These trails are easy to moderate in difficulty.

Snowshoeing is permitted at all these locations, but especially where trails are groomed it is considered good etiquette to walk beside the trail, rather than in it.

With gas prices down, there is no reason at all to leave the skis in the garage this winter. We live in an area rich with winter recreation opportunities, most of which cost little or nothing.

See Oceana Cross Country Ski Association
See Manistee Cross Country Ski Council
These links are checked on the date of the article. As the article ages, some links may become invalid

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Skiing
See Get Off The Couch

Big Frowny Face In the Sky, Dec 1

from National Geographic, "Planets, Crescent Moon to 'Frown' on Skywatchers Dec. 1," by Andrew Fazekas, Nov 25, 2008

"This is set to be the best planetary gathering of the year, simply because it involves three of the brightest objects in the sky after the sun," said Geza Gyuk, director of astronomy at the Adler Planetarium in Chicago.

On November 30, at about 7 pm Eastern Standard Time, Jupiter and Venus will be separated by only 2 degrees. The planets will be easily seen shortly after sunset, as long as the sky is clear. Look low in the southwest, approximately where sunset occurs.

However, the best of the show may be on the following evening, Dec 1. The crescent moon will join the two planets for a short time, creating the appearance of a "frowny face" in the sky.

Five planets are visible in the sky to the naked eye, but Jupiter and Venus are the brightest. They are both enveloped in reflective clouds. Jupiter is the largest planet, and Venus is the closest, making both of them easily visible.

Planetary conjunctions are relatively rare, and the last time that Venus and Jupiter were so close together was in 2 B.C. This has raised speculation as to whether the light from the conjunction appeared merged and is the "Star of Bethlehem."

See National Geographic Blog
These links are checked on the date of the article. As the article ages, some links may become invalid

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Get Off The Couch

Get Started Nordic Skating

from Press of Atlantic City, "Beginners' questions answered about Nordic skating," Nov 26, 2008

WHAT ARE NORDIC SKATES?
Nordic skates are cross-country ice skates for recreational touring. Blades are long and thin, similar to speed- skate blades, allowing for greater speed. The blades fasten to comfortable Nordic ski boots, so you avoid the pinched feet, cold toes and floppy ankles that you get from conventional speed skates. Just clip the blade on your ski boots and go.

ADVANTAGES
Nordic skates glide farther than conventional hockey or figure skates. On a longer blade, your weight is more distributed with greater stability, allowing you to handle bumpier ice without tripping or stumbling. Hockey and figure blades leave deeper gouges in the ice than Nordic blades. Nordic skates also make it easier to skate through a few inches of snow atop the ice.

WHAT LENGTH OF BLADE?
Nordic skates come in four lengths. Shorter blades work best on small ponds and indoor rinks with smooth ice. Longer blades are best for soft ice, bumpy ice and straight-ahead skating on large bodies of frozen water.

WHICH BINDINGS?
Bindings need to match the boots you'll be using, such as Salomon Pilot, Profil or X-Adventure; or Rottefella NNN-BC, NNN-R3 or NIS-R4.

WHAT ABOUT BOOTS?
Nordic skates clip onto cross-country ski boots just like skis. Best boots are Nordic "skate" or "combi" models from Alpina, Fischer, Hartjes, Rossignol, Salomon and Sportful. They have good ankle support and stiffness for skating. But any cross-country ski boot will work with Nordic skates as long as the boots match the bindings. There are also strap-on versions of Nordic blades available to fit winter hiking boots, or telemark versions to fit telemark ski boots.

SAFETY GEAR
If you're skating outdoors on an unmaintained, untested ice surface, safety is your responsibility. Skate with, but not necessarily near, at least one other person and carry this safety gear:

• Ice claws or picks with which to pull yourself out of a hole in the ice if you fall through.
• A lifeline you can throw to anyone who falls through the ice.
• A backpack containing dry clothes in a waterproof bag or container. If you fasten the waist strap on your backpack, the air caught in any waterproof bag or container inside will help act as a life preserver in an emergency.
• A waterproof flashlight. Winter days are short in Alaska. A light can be used to signal for help or to provide illumination for a rescue.

HOW ABOUT POLES?
Poles can help maintain balance. And cross-country skiers might enjoy the familiarity - Nordic skating is a lot like Nordic skate skiing on snow, only faster and with less effort. On soft, bumpy or snow-covered ice, poles can be a big help with balance. But when the ice is smooth, hard and black, most people skate without poles.

IS MY HEEL REALLY FREE?
Yes and no. When you stride on the blades, your heel swings free. But when you ride or push off on the blades, your weight forces the boot down onto an interlocking ridge-channel system that marries boot and blade. This give you control over your blades and helps transmit all lateral force into the blade.

HOW DO I STOP?
In a life-or-death emergency, experienced skaters do a "hockey stop," a quick sideways twist that brings the edges of the skates perpendicular to the line of travel. This technique takes some time to learn. If you don't already know how to hockey stop, start slowly, don't allow your speed to get too high, and slow down to stop by gradually by "snowplowing" as you would on skis or coasting to a gradual stop. If you do know how to hockey stop, remember that hockey stops dull blades faster than less aggressive forms of braking.

See NordicSkating.org
These links are checked on the date of the article. As the article ages, some links may become invalid

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Get Off The Couch

Court Upholds Michigan Law to Stop Invasive Species

a news release of National Wildlife Federation

Statement by Andy Buchsbaum, regional executive director, Great Lakes office of the National Wildlife Federation, on the 6th Circuit Court of Appeals decision upholding the state of Michigan’s law to stop invasive species from entering the Great Lakes. ANN ARBOR, MICH. (November 21, 2008)—“The court’s decision is a victory for the state of Michigan, the Great Lakes and the millions of people who depend on them for their jobs and way of life. “The decision sends a clear message that Michigan’s law is constitutional and not pre-empted by federal law. The decision affirms that states have an important and powerful role to play in preventing the ongoing economic and environmental damage from invasive species. “It is imperative that Great Lakes states remain vigilant in protecting the Great Lakes from invasive species which foul beaches, disrupt the aquatic food chain, damage infrastructure and cost citizens at least $200 million per year in damage and control costs. “Absent aggressive state and federal actions, the problem of invasive species will only get worse and more costly. We have solutions. It is time to use them.” National Wildlife Federation is America's conservation organization inspiring Americans to protect wildlife for our children's future.

See the full court decision a pdf
These links are checked on the date of the article. As the article ages, some links may become invalid

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Get Off The Couch

Becoming an Outdoorswoman - UP, Feb 27 - Mar 1

a news release of Michigan DNR

Women seeking to improve their outdoor skills are encouraged to participate in the Department of Natural Resources' Becoming an Outdoors-Woman (BOW) program's Winter Weekend Feb. 27-March 1 in the Upper Peninsula. The annual winter program will be held at the Bay Cliff Health Camp in Big Bay, 30 miles north of Marquette in the Upper Peninsula.

Participants can select instruction from a list of over a dozen outdoor-related activities including cross-country skiing, dog sledding, snowmobiling, winter shelter building, ice fishing, outdoor cooking and reading the winter woods. Some indoor activities also will be offered, such as archery, fly tying and journaling. Professional instructors will offer basic and advanced instruction tailored to the participant's individual abilities.

The $175 registration fee includes all food and lodging for the weekend, as well as most equipment and supplies. Participants will be housed in comfortable, dorm-style facilities. The fee also includes many extra evening activities including the camp's group sauna, bonfire/marshmallow roast and other programs.

BOW workshops are for women 18 years of age and older who wish to learn outdoor skills in a relaxed atmosphere. Those interested in participating are urged to register soon as classes fill quickly.

Registration materials and course descriptions are available on the DNR web site, Click on Education and Outreach to access the BOW page.
These links are checked on the date of the article. As the article ages, some links may become invalid

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Get Off The Couch

Winter Rafting - A New Way to Experience Michigan

Rafters enjoy a winter excursion down the Jordan River aboard the big blue rafts of Jordan Valley Outfitters, East Jordan, Mich.

from MLive.com, "Winter rafting in northern Michigan showcases season's beauty," by Andrea Tamboer, Nov 9

Think of the quiet of the winter woods. Add a Wild & Scenic River, an outfitter, and you are all set for a new experience in northern Michigan.

Jordan River Outfitters of East Jordan, and Big Bear Adventures in Indian River are two Lower Peninsula firms that offer winter rafting trips. More and more people are looking for an alternative to skiing and snowshoeing. Michigan waterways provide the medium. Deep snow cover is not required... a perfect activity for those not-so-snow-covered weekends.

About two hours is considered a good length for a safe trip. Dressing warmly is imperative, but you can be assured of staying dry. Jordan River Outfitters even provides snowshoes for a short hike midway through the trip, followed by hot drinks and snacks.

"The river is ever-changing in the winter," Jordan Outfitter's owner said. "A shelf of ice will develop and narrow the rapids. The next week, it's gone, and the current is more gentle."

Winter wildlife may be seen nearby; the rafts pass silently. Consider this novel way to enjoy a Michigan winter.

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Get Off The Couch

2009 Michigan State Park Permits Available

a news release of Michigan DNR

Rates for 2009 permits will remain the same. Motor vehicle entrance permits are $24 for a resident annual and $6 for a resident daily. A non-resident annual is $29 and a non-resident daily is $8. Resident annual senior discount permits are $6 and can only be purchased in person at a state park or recreation area, or at the main office in downtown Lansing, and will require a valid driver's license and vehicle registration.

Boating access site permits are $24 for an annual permit, or $6 for a daily permit, for both residents and non-residents. Boating access site permits are also available at fee sites.

"Most Michigan residents are located within a one hour drive of a state park, recreation area or boating access site. The permits provide Michigan residents, and non-residents, access to 98 Michigan state parks or recreation areas and over 800 access sites located statewide," said Ron Olson, DNR Parks and Recreation chief. "Giving a motor vehicle permit, a boating access site permit, or a gift certificate is giving the gift of outdoors, and it also helps support our state park system."

Gift certificates and permits can be purchased year round through the Michigan e-store or by calling 517-373-9900
These links are checked on the date of the article. As the article ages, some links may become invalid

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Get Off The Couch

Consider Clothing that Can't Get Wet

The new fabric strongly repels water thanks to nanoscale filaments with a spiky structure (Image: University of Zurich/Wiley Vch)

from a news release of New Scientist, "Nanotech clothing fabric 'never gets wet'", by Jon Evans, Nov 24, 2008

A new waterproof fabric developed in Switzerland just can't get wet! It is the most water repellant material that is suitable for clothing that has ever been created.

The fabric is made of polyester fibers coated with millions of tiny silicone filaments. Drops of water retain their spherical shape and cannot penetrate. If the surface of the fabric is tilted to only two degrees, the water rolls off. Even shooting water under pressure at the fabric can't make it get wet; the water just bounces.

Stefan Seeger at the University of Zurich says the spiky silicone nanofilament layer is the secret. The material is chemically hydrophobic, and the spiky structure strengthens the effect.

As is often the case, science is imitating nature. A similar structure is what keeps the surface of Lotus leaves dry. And the layer of air trapped in the nanofilaments is similar to the method used by some insects and spiders to trap air for underwater survival.

This air layer also suggests uses such as athletic swimwear since it also causes the fabric to have reduced drag.

"Although the textiles did show some degradation in the mechanical abrasion tests, their performance was very impressive," Seeger says. "The era of self-cleaning clothes may be closer than we think."

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Get Off The Couch

Really M.A.D. in 2009

M.A.D. logo

by Joan H. Young

The Annual M.A.D (Make a Difference) Ride benefits the HELP Ministries of Mason County.

Sign up early and ride your bike on August 15, 2009 for the 2008 registration price of $15. This rate is good through August 8, 2009. Annual M.A.D Rides have four scenic routes of 14, 26, 62, or 100 miles. The $15 fee is the minimum amount for a rider to participate. Sponsorship is preferred with a $100 minimum.

M.A.D. Ride t-shirts are awarded for $100 in sponsors. Jerseys are awarded to riders with $250 or more in sponsorship.

Rest stops are indicated along the routes. Lunch is provided for riders, and maps to the routes.

HELP stands for Hands Extended Loving People. HELP is a non-profit, faith based service ministry. Its primary focus is to meet needs not presently addressed by agencies, ministries and churches in Mason County, Michigan.

Assistance is offered to everyone, regardless of social or economic status. However, priority is given to widows, single mothers, and the poor. Examples of services are automotive repairs, rent assistance, utilities assistance, providing appliances / furniture, assistance with medical bills, etc.

See Hands Extended Loving People
These links are checked on the date of the article. As the article ages, some links may become invalid

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Biking
See Get Off The Couch

Overweight Kids Can Reduce Anger Through Exercise

excerpts from a news release of the Medical College of Georgia

Regular exercise seems to reduce anger expression in overweight but otherwise healthy children, researchers said.

The first published study on the topic looked at 208 typically sedentary 7- to 11-year-olds who participated in a 10-15 week afterschool aerobic exercise program or maintained their usual inactive routine. The Pediatric Anger Expression Scale, used to gauge common anger expressions such as slamming doors and hitting, was given before and after the program.

"Exercise had a significant impact on anger expression in children," said Dr. Catherine Davis, clinical health psychologist in the Medical College of Georgia School of Medicine. "This finding indicates that aerobic exercise may be an effective strategy to help overweight kids reduce anger expression and aggressive behavior."

The finding fits with evidence that exercise reduces depression and anxiety in children and with what's considered common knowledge that exercise helps adults manage anger, she said.

It also gives parents and other caregivers another reason to get and keep children moving. "I think it's reasonable to encourage children to exercise for a lot of good reasons," said Dr. Davis whose research on overweight children has shown regular physical activity not only reduces fatness but improves cognition and reduces insulin resistance – which can lead to diabetes.

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Kids and the Outdoors
See Get Off The Couch

Biological Pesticide Found for Zebra Mussels

zebra mussels attached to native clam photo from GLSGN Exotic Species Library/ USFWS

from the Schenectady Daily Gazette, "Biopesticide may solve zebra mussel problem," by Sara Foss, Nov 23, 2008

Zebra mussels feed on the bacteria Pseudomonas fluorescens regularly, but an overdose is lethal. The bacteria is naturally present in lake water.

Dr. Daniel Molloy, director of the Cambridge, New York Museum’s Field Research Laboratory has developed the natural pesticide. “It’s a question of dose,” Molloy said. “If you go to a pipe, and add a million times more [Pseudomonas fluorescens], and create artificially high densities of bacteria, they will feed on it until they die.”

Malloy had previously developed a biological pesticide for black flies. He was approached by power companies to try to apply the same type of solution to kill zebra mussels. The invasive mussels clog pipes in power plants and water intakes. Malloy began hunting for a soil bacteria that was toxic to the mussels without success. He had no success, and was ready to give up, but the power companies asked him to continue (and provided funding). Within 8 weeks he found the Pseudomonas fluorescens.

Previous to this discovery the only practical methods of getting rid of the zebra mussels were chemical pesticides (toxic to many species), or the application of high temperature water which is expensive to maintain.

The bacteria also kills the invasive quagga mussel, a relative of the zebra mussel. is likely to be available next year, and will probably be sold through a commercial partner of the museum.

A full scale test of the product will be conducted next year at Davis Dam on the Colorado River, Arizona. The U.S. Bureau of Reclamation will determine if the bacteria can be used in a dam to kill quagga mussels.

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Get Off The Couch

Solo Hike Paddle Loops

Pere Marquette loop follow link below for full size

from Alan Fark

If you're paddling Michigan rivers, you know it's a hassle to shuttle your own kayak or canoe back-and-forth from the start and end point, and you need a buddy to help you do it.

Here are some circuits which can be done without shuttling, and which combine hiking and paddling. They can be done solo. Most are on the North Country Trail. These are day trips, not overnights.

Either drop your canoe or kayak off at the upstream portion (lock it with a bicycle lock or hide it in weeds, and don't forget to leave paddles and life vest away from the boat), drive to your endpoint, hike upstream and paddle back to your car. You can also obviously just start paddling from the upstream point and walk back upstream to your car after leaving your boat at the "bottom." This latter strategy runs the risk of missing the bend in the river where you're supposed to stop, if you're unfamiliar with the landing spot.

Alan has provided maps and some info for five different loops. There is a 6th possibility for a short trip, on the map above. You can begin at Upper Branch Bridge, hike the NCT and Sulak Access Road and then paddle down to Upper Branch. This makes a short day trip... nice for families.

See Hike-Paddle Loops
These links are checked on the date of the article. As the article ages, some links may become invalid

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Boating
See Get Off The Couch

Mandy Anderson - Conquerer of Mountains

Mandy Anderson photo by Marci Singer

from the Petoskey News Review, "Harbor Springs native conquers mountains," by Marci Singer, Nov 17, 2008

“Don’t make assumptions about what you think someone else can or cannot do just based on what you see,” Mandy told reporter Marci Singer.

Mandy Anderson has had but one leg for the past 25 years. Since then she has completed more than 10 mini triathlons. She loves to ski, hike, swim, sail, kayak, and ride her bike. She helped carry the Olympic Torch to Juno in 2002.

Most recently, she finished a mini-triathlon in Anchorage, Alaska in May of this year.

With her husband and two children, Anderson moved back to her home town of Harbor Springs, Michigan this year after living in Alaska. She is the director of Cross Village Rugworks.

She has expressed her delight that there are so many hiking and biking opportunities in northern Michigan.

When asked about her greatest athletic accomplishment she responded "riding up a little mountain pass” in Dutch Harbor (Port Alexander, Alaska) on her bicycle without stopping. “I’d ridden the same pass in triathlons but had to stop and walk. In the fall, right before we left, right before the road closed for the winter, I made it over the pass without stopping,” she said smiling.

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Get Off The Couch

Note from Admin

The quick reactions checkboxes have been removed because entries don't seem to "stick." I have applied the fix supplied by various bloggers who have also reported this difficulty, and they still don't work. Rather than have it look as if no one ever uses them, I have removed the option.

Bird Counts Skewed by Background Noise

photo credit Jason McClellan

a news release of North Carolina State University

Most of what we know about bird populations stems from surveys conducted by professional biologists and amateur birdwatchers, but new research from North Carolina State University shows that the data from those surveys may be seriously flawed – and proposes possible means to resolve the problem.

Bird populations are the focus of thousands of environmental research and monitoring programs around the world. A group of researchers led by NC State's Dr. Theodore Simons has been evaluating factors that confound estimates of bird abundance. For example, background noise can influence the ability of observers to detect birds on population surveys, and can result in underestimates of true population size.

In order to explore these questions, Simons and others worked to develop "Bird Radio:" a series of remotely controlled playback devices that can be used to accurately mimic a population of singing birds. Researchers could then control variables, such as background noise, to see whether it affected birdwatchers' ability to estimate bird populations.

The study found that even small amounts of background noise, from rustling leaves or automobile traffic, led to a 40 percent decrease in the ability of observers to detect singing birds. What's more, said Simons, "we also learned that misidentification rates increased with the number of individuals and species encountered by observers at a census point." In other words, the researchers found that traditional means of estimating the abundance and diversity of bird species are flawed due to complications such as background noise and the accuracy of the data observers collect on surveys of breeding birds.

But the Bird Radio research also points the way toward possible solutions. Simons explains that the Bird Radio findings are helping researchers develop better sampling methods and statistical models that will provide more accurate bird population estimates. For example, researchers are attempting to identify data collection methods that will help account for background noise or other outside factors in estimating bird populations.

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Get Off The Couch

Stronach Boat Launch Gets New Dock

from the Ludington Daily News

Stronach boat launch has a new dock, and the ribbon cutting ceremony will be Tuesday, November 25. A $289,400 grant from the Great Lakes Fishery Trust funded the project. The boat launch is just north of the village of Stronach at the mouth of Manistee Lake

The dock is constructed of aluminum, and has floats which allow the pier to fluctuate with water levels. It includes benches and railings. There are cutouts which allow anglers to land fish with nets. The dock can accommodate 20 people, and is accessible according to the ADA guidelines. It replaces a wooden dock.

The ceremony will be Tuesday at 11 am.

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Stronach
See Get Off The Couch

Nub's Nob Adds Chairlift at Pintail Peak

a news release of Michigan Skier

Nob's Nob Ski Area of Harbor Springs, Michigan, has a new custom-built triple-seat chairlift for the Pintail Peak. It is a fixed-grip chairlift that will increase uphill skier and snowboarder capacity on the Peak by over 65 percent. Nubs Nob has also added 12 additional snow guns, manufactured by the Nub's Nob crew, bringing the total arsenal count to 262.

The ski area purchased all new adult and children snowboards, boots and bindings for their rental fleet. Last year, they purchased all new skis, boots and bindings so their rental department is very up-to-date.

Nubs is adding two new season passes to their offerings, the Limited Pass and the College Pass. The Limited Pass is less expensive than the Unlimited Pass and allows the holder to ski anytime except Saturday daytime and blackout dates. The College Pass reduces the rates for college students through age 21, with a valid college ID.

See Nub's Nob (231) 526-2131
These links are checked on the date of the article. As the article ages, some links may become invalid

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Get Off The Couch

Quiet Water Symposium 2009

by Joan H. Young (sources MSU and Quiet Waters)

As part of the Agriculture and Natural Resources Week at Michigan State University, the annual Quiet Water Symposium is being planned. This is an annual event where those who share a love of outdoor, non-motorized recreation come together to share experiences and adventures, equipment ideas, and concerns for water resources. Of course, attendees are always looking for just the right spot to take that next river trip.

Agriculture and Natural Resources Week (ANR Week) continues to be one of the largest events of its kind in the nation. Foundations for the week were laid by the Farmers’ Institute more than a century ago. In 1898, Michigan Agricultural College hosted the first state-wide Farmers’ Institute “Round-Up.”

The Quiet Water Symposium will be Saturday March 7, 2009, in Lansing, at the Pavilion for Livestock and Agriculture Education. Times are 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and adult admission is $8.00.

At least three venues with full programs are being planned. Speakers of note include

• Cliff Jacobson, one of North America’s most respected outdoors writers and wilderness paddlers. He is a recipient of the American Canoe Association’s prestigious Legends of Paddling Award and a member of the ACA Hall of Fame.
• "Doc" Fletcher: "Weekend Canoeing in Michigan: The Rivers, The Towns, The Taverns"
• Jonathan M. Ahlbrand: Basic Sailing Concepts, A Brief Introduction to the Sport
• Erick Hansen: The Poetry and the Practicalities of Hiking Michigan’s Upper Peninsula
• Cathy Green: Wreck Diving in the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary
• ongoing demonstrations on re-canvasing canoes, and wood strip kayak building
• and many others

There will be exhibits of beautiful hand-built canoes, kayaks, rowing craft, outdoor gear, antique and restored classic canoes, traditional snowshoes, bicycles - and more. Environmental groups will also have informational booths.

See the Quiet Waters Symposium for the complete schedule.
These links are checked on the date of the article. As the article ages, some links may become invalid

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Boating
See Get Off The Couch

Michgan Ranked 12th by League of American Bicyclists

a news release of Michigan DOT

Michigan ranks 12th in the nation for bicycle friendliness, according to a recent survey administered by the League of American Bicyclists. Bicycle friendliness is closely connected with perceptions of a high quality of life. According to the League, encouraging bicycling is an effective way to address the challenges of climate change, traffic congestion, rising obesity rates and soaring fuel prices, as well as improve traffic safety and economic development.

"Michigan's high ranking was achieved through the many partnerships we have in our state between state and local government, nonprofit and private agencies, and the thousands of dedicated citizens and bicyclists across the state," said Joshua DeBruyn, bicycle and pedestrian coordinator for the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT). "Many Michigan communities have incorporated bike lanes on local roads and constructed hundreds of miles of bike trails with assistance from numerous state departments and nonprofit resources. This creates an infrastructure that encourages bicycling."

Michigan's overall ranking was based on six survey categories: Education and Encouragement - 7th, Infrastructure - 8th (tied), Evaluation and Planning - 14th (tied), Enforcement - 15th (tied), Policies and Programs - 19th (tied), and Legislation - 35th (tied).

The survey was completed by MDOT with information provided by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Community Health, State Police, Management and Budget, Secretary of State, and the League of Michigan Bicyclists.

See Michigan DOT / Biking
These links are checked on the date of the article. As the article ages, some links may become invalid

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Biking
See Get Off The Couch

Sleeping Bear Heritage Trailway

based on an article in the Leelanau Enterprise, "Heritage Trailway proposal outlined," Sep 16, 2008

The article Sleeping Bear Proposes More Rec Opportunities mentioned a 27-mile, multi-use trail to possibly be built near M-22. This article gives additional details.

Representatives of the National Park Service and the Northwest Michigan Council of Governments are proposing the Leelanau Scenic Heritage Route Trailway. The trail would begin at Manning Road at Leelanau County’s southern border with Benzie County and extend north along M-22, M-109 and through the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore as far north as Good Harbor Trail (County Road 651) in Centerville Township.

Open houses were held throughout October 2008 to inform the public concerning the plan. The Leelanau Scenic Heritage Route project got under way in 2001 under the auspices of the Michigan Department of Transportation. A county scenic heritage route committee consisting of representatives from 12 municipalities along the M-22 corridor in Leelanau County meets monthly to oversee a Scenic Heritage Route plan. One of the priorities in that plan includes creation of a non-motorized trailway through the National Lakeshore.

Patty O’Donnell, of the Northwest Michigan Council of Governments, told the Empire Township Board that the heritage route committee had secured a $250,000 federal grant to design and engineer the first phase of the trail. Tentatively, the first phase could include a trail from the Dune Climb in the national park to the unincorporated village of Glen Arbor via M-109. One alternative calls for the trail to use part of an historic narrow gauge railroad bed built by D.H. Day to move lumber from forested areas north to the dock at Glen Haven.

Empire Township Board members appeared to be generally pleased with what they heard from O’Donnell this week. In Cleveland Township, however, board members and members of the public expressed some concerns about what they were hearing from Barb and Lee Jameson.

Several alternative routes are being proposed. Not all local residents are pleased with some of these alternatives. the path would deviate from the M-22 right of way at Narada Lake where a boardwalk will be necessary and could provide opportunities for a wildlife viewing platform. In addition, a bridge would be required to take the trail across Shetland Creek near M-22. A Cleveland Township trustee noted that the portion of M-22 paralleling Little Traverse Lake is already a “difficult and dangerous” stretch of road. He asserted that adding a trailway past homes and business in that area would only make the corridor more dangerous.

The trail will not be located on any of the land proposed to be placed in official wilderness status. Mechanized use of any kind is prohibited in wilderness. Multi-use paths are generally 10 feet wide with 2-foot shoulders. It may be paved or have a crushed limestone surface. Plans call for the trail to be constructed in phases over several years.

See the Trailway Plan and Environmental Assessment at NPS / Sleeping Bear
These links are checked on the date of the article. As the article ages, some links may become invalid

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Get Off The Couch

Bigford Family Conservation Easement on the Pere Marquette

Paul Bigford photo credit Danielle Fogel

excerpted from the newsletter of the Land Conservancy of West Michigan, "Bigford Family Preserve Pere Marquette River Frontage," Fall 2008

Paul Bigford knows every bend and curve of the Pere Marquette River as it meanders through his family’s 150 acres. Ever since he was a young boy he has been exploring the banks and enjoying the natural beauty and rich history of the area. In December, the Bigford family worked with the Land Conservancy of West Michigan to permanently protect their land with a conservation easement. [see West Michigan Land Conservancy Aids in Protecting Pere Marquette Acres]

In 1958 Paul’s grandfather, Harold Bigford, purchased 200 acres on the Pere Marquette for $20,000. As the eldest grandchild, Paul helped his grandfather with numerous projects including restoring the 1916 house on the property, building fences, and picking up trash on the south side of the river where Harold had created a camping area for the public to use, free of charge.

“Working and protecting the land got into my blood during the summers that I was grandpa’s go-fer,” Paul explains. Harold passed away in the fall of 1964. Paul’s father inherited the land, but unfortunately not before 50 acres on the south side of the river was sold off.

The next summer 14-year-old Paul was in Baldwin with his family for the “Troutarama” festival. He spotted a flyer in the window of a realty office advertising riverfront land for sale and instantly recognized the map - he had traced the path of the river through his grandfather’s property many times and entertained himself by creating maps. The 50 acres including the camping area) sold when Harold passed away were split up into 21 lots that were for sale for approximately $2500 each. Paul knew then that he would do everything he could to ensure the remaining 150 acres were protected forever.

Paul and his brother Doug inherited the property when their parents died. Together with Paul’s son Kyle they formed a limited liability corporation and worked with the Land Conservancy to create a conservation easement that will forever protect their 150 acres and ensure that the land will not be fragmented into small shoreline lots.

“As I look at the framed arrowheads on my wall I pray that the river will still flow, free and undammed and wild, for another 300 generations. I feel good that we have done our part,” says Paul.

See Land Conservancy of West Michigan
These links are checked on the date of the article. As the article ages, some links may become invalid

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Get Off The Couch

Your Cell Phone as Fitness Coach?

UbiFit display on a cell phone. Different colored flowers grow for different activities, and butterflies appear when the user reaches weekly goals.

excerpts from a news release of the University of Washington, "Track your fitness, environmental impact with new cell phone applications," by Rachel Tompa, Nov 19, 2008

Planning on gobbling a few extra treats this holiday season? Soon, your cell phone may be able to help you maintain your exercise routine and keep the pounds off over winter months, without your having to lift a finger to keep track.

Researchers at the University of Washington and Intel have created two new cell phone applications, dubbed UbiFit and UbiGreen, to automatically track workouts and green transportation. The programs display motivational pictures on the phone's background screen that change the more the user works out or uses eco-friendly means of transportation.

The applications are designed to change people's behavior for the better, said Sunny Consolvo, a recently graduated UW Information School doctoral student and one of UbiFit's creators. In a three-month field experiment, people using UbiFit with the background display kept up their workout routines over the winter holidays, a period when people typically slack off on exercise, while people without the display let their regimen slide.

Current versions of UbiFit and UbiGreen use an external sensing device (the Intel Mobile Sensing Platform) clipped to the user's waist. The device includes an accelerometer to sense the user's movement. The programs could run on phones with built-in accelerometers, such as the iPhone and the new Android G1, with no need for external equipment, Landay said. UbiGreen also relies on changing cell phone tower signals to determine whether a person is taking a trip.

UbiFit displays an empty lawn at the beginning of the week, and flowers grow as the user works out during the week. Different kinds of workouts yield different colored flowers. Users set weekly workout goals and are rewarded with a butterfly when the goal is met. Users can also enter workout information manually if the sensor made a mistake, they forgot to wear it, or they did an activity that the sensor does not detect.

This background display proved motivational, said Consolvo, who is a researcher at Intel Research Seattle. "[It] was definitely one of the biggest wins of our study," Consolvo said.

UbiGreen automatically logs a trip that involves walking, running or biking using accelerometer data, and uses cell phone tower signals to determine if someone is riding in a vehicle. UbiGreen displays a tree on the cell phone's background that grows leaves, flowers, then fruit as the user makes green choices. Icons light up when a choice saves money, incorporates exercise, or allows the user to multi-task. A green bar and number also display how many pounds of carbon dioxide each trip saves compared to a car ride.

UbiFit and UbiGreen could be released to the public within the next year or two, Landay said, especially as phones with built-in accelerometers become more common.

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Get Off The Couch

Cold is Cool for Michigan 4th Graders

a news release of Michigan Snowsports Industries Association

The Michigan Snowsports Industries Association (MSIA) wants to give Michigan kids an opportunity to get out, have fun and get healthy this winter. This is why MSIA has established a state-wide program which provides every fourth grader in Michigan the opportunity to ski for free. Endorsed by Michigan Governor Jennifer Granholm, fourth graders can obtain a “Cold is Cool” Ski & Ride Passport that gives them up to three free lift tickets or trail passes at 22 participating ski areas.

The “Cold is Cool” Fourth Grade Ski & Ride Passport is one of the elements of MSIA’s “Cold is Cool” program, which is dedicated to improving the health of the children in our state by offering winter outdoor activities for all Michigan kids and their families.

Steve Kershner, MSIA chairman and director of skiing at Shanty Creek, says the association wants Michigan kids to have the opportunity to ski or snowboard. “Fourth grade is the perfect age to learn to ski. Nine- and ten-year-old kids have the coordination to pick up the sport quickly,” he adds.

In order for fourth graders to use the free lift or trail pass coupons, a paying adult must accompany them. “We feel that fourth graders should be supervised by an adult while on the slopes and trails. Our intention is to make this a fun, affordable activity for the entire family,” says Mickey MacWilliams, MSIA executive director. With the Passport, up to two fourth graders can ski free with each paying adult.

In the Fall, Michigan elementary and middle school principals receive a “Cold is Cool” packet with information on a variety of MSIA programs including application forms for the Fourth Grade Passport. Kids can also pick up the applications at participating MSIA ski shops and by clicking here. Although the skiing is free, MSIA charges a $15 printing and shipping fee for each passport ordered.

The Cold is Cool Fourth Grade Ski & Ride Passport has blackout dates at some of the participating ski areas. Dates are listed on the application and the passport itself.

Passport applications are sent to all Michigan elementary schools in November. They are also available at MSIA Ski Shops in November, or you can visit the MSIA web site

See MSIA
These links are checked on the date of the article. As the article ages, some links may become invalid

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Get Off The Couch

National Outdoor Book Award Winners for 2008

Winner of a National Outdoor Book Award in the Natural History category

a news release of National Outdoor Book Awards

A stubborn band of optimists who fought and refused to let the magnificent American chestnut tree slip into extinction. One man's life-long obsession with hiking the hidden-away corners of the Grand Canyon. A young mother rebuilding her life after the death of her husband in a mountaineering accident.

These are some of the themes found among the winners of the 2008 National Outdoor Book Awards.

"What a year it was," said Ron Watters, professor emeritus at Idaho State University. "The writing in the outdoor field has always been good, but it just keeps getting better -- and this year it was outstanding." Watters is the chairman of the National Outdoor Book Awards, a nonprofit program sponsored by the NOBA Foundation, Idaho State University and the Association of Outdoor Recreation and Education.

As an example of outstanding writing, Watters points to the winner of the Natural History category, “American Chestnut: The Life, Death, and Rebirth of a Perfect Tree.” Authored by nature writer Susan Freinkel, it tells the story of the American chestnut tree which at one time stretched in vast numbers from Georgia to Maine.

The American chestnut tree had long been a part of the landscape of the eastern United States, but in a short 40-year time span, an estimated 4 billion trees were killed off by an imported blight fungus. Only a handful of trees remained in California and the Pacific Northwest. In an absorbing mix of natural and human history, Freinkel chronicles the century-long struggle by a few individuals who set out to save this American cultural icon.

A beautifully composed memoir won the Outdoor Literature category. Written by Jennifer Lowe-Anker, “Forget Me Not: A Memoir” tells of the struggle to rebuild her life after her husband and famous mountaineer, Alex Lowe dies on an expedition in the Himalayas. Remarkably candid, it's a story of adventure, passion, and hope reborn.

The History-Biography Category has two winners. One is a new, exhaustively researched but eminently readable “Fallen Giants: A History of Himalayan Mountaineering” by Maurice Isserman and Stewart Weaver.

The other is entitled “Grand Obsession.” Written by Elias Butler and Tom Myers, it is the biography of Harvey Butchart, an author of Grand Canyon hiking guidebooks. Butler and Myers do wonders with this book, taking what seems at first glance a prosaic subject, and fashioning it into a fascinating portrait of a man hopelessly addicted to a place.

Complete reviews of these and the other 2008 winners may be found at National Outdoor Book Award Web site at: www.noba-web.org.

Here is a list of winners.

Natural History Literature. Winner. “The American Chestnut: The Life, Death, and Rebirth of a Perfect Tree.” By Susan Freinkel. University of California Press, Berkeley. ISBN 9780520247307

Outdoor Literature Category. Winner. “Forget Me Not: A Memoir.” By Jennifer Lowe-Anker. The Mountaineers Books, Seattle. ISBN 1594850828.

History/Biography Category. Winner. “Grand Obsession: Harvey Butchart and the Exploration of the Grand Canyon.” By Elias Butler and Tom Myers. Puma Press, Flagstaff, Ariz. ISBN 0970097344.

History/Biography Category. Winner. “Fallen Giants: A History of Himalayan Mountaineering from the Age of Empire to the Age of Extremes.” By Maurice Isserman and Stewart Weaver. Yale University Press. New Haven, Conn. ISBN 9780300115017.

Classic Category. Winner. “Through the Grand Canyon from Wyoming to Mexico.” By Ellsworth L. Kolb. Grand Canyon Association, Grand Canyon, Ariz. (Originally published by MacMillan in 1914). ISBN 0938216961

Classic Category. Winner. The “Pacific Crest Trail” (Series). In three volumes: Southern California, Northern California and Oregon &Washington. Authors include Thomas Winnett, Ben Schifrin, Jeffrey Schaffer, Ruby Johnson Jenkins, and Andy Selters. Wilderness Press, Berkeley. ISBN's: 9780899973166, 9870899973173, 9780899973753.

Children's Category. Winner. “The Pole.” By Eric Walters. Puffin Canada/Penguin Group, Toronto. ISBN 9780143167914.

Nature and the Environment. Winner. “The Last Polar Bear: Facing the Truth of a Warming World.” Photographs by Steven Kazlowski. Braided River Books, an imprint of The Mountaineers Books, Seattle. ISBN 9781594850592.

Nature and the Environment. Winner. “The Great Lakes: The Natural History of a Changing Region.” By Wayne Grady. Greystone Books, Vancouver. ISBN 9781553651970.

Design and Artistic Merit. Winner. “Surfboards” by Guy Motil. Falcon Guides, Guilford, Conn. ISBN 9780762746217.

Design and Artistic Merit. Winner. “Bruce Aiken's Grand Canyon: An Intimate Affair.” Paintings by Bruce Aiken. Text by Susan Hallsten McGarry. Grand Canyon Association, Grand Canyon, Ariz. ISBN 9780938216933

Design and Artistic Merit. Honorable Mention. “Soul of the Heights: 50 Years Going to the Mountains.” Photographs and text by Ed Cooper. Falcon Guides, Guilford, Conn. ISBN 9780762745272

Nature Guidebooks. Winner. “Birds of Peru.” By Tomas S. Schulenberg, Douglas F. Stotz, Daniel F. Lane, John P. O'Neill, and Theodore A. Parker III. Princeton University Press, Princeton, N.J. ISBN 9780691049151.

Outdoor Adventure Guidebook. Winner. “Florida Keys Paddling Atlas.” By Bill and Mary Burnham. Falcon Guides, Guilford, Conn. ISBN 9780762738571.

Instructional Category. Winner. “Road Bike Maintenance.” By Guy Andrews. Falcon Guides, Guilford, Conn. ISBN 9780762747467.

Instructional Category. Honorable Mention. “Whitewater Kayaking: The Ultimate Guide.” By Ken Whiting and Kevin Varette. Heliconia Press. Beachburg, Ontario. ISBN 9781896980300.

More information on the awards program is found on the National Outdoor Book Award website
These links are checked on the date of the article. As the article ages, some links may become invalid

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Get Off The Couch

Cheboygan, South Haven, Boyne City Certify Clean Marinas

a news release of Michigan Sea Grant

Three Michigan marinas—Walstrom Marine in Cheboygan, South Haven Municipal Marina group in South Haven and Grant Moore Municipal Marina in Boyne City—are the most recent facilities to achieve official designation as clean marinas through the Michigan Clean Marina Program.

The new designations bring the total number of clean marinas in Michigan to 21. Designated clean marinas have implemented a suite of best management practices that promote environmentally sound marina and boating practices. “The program is a win-win situation,” said Chuck Pistis, state coordinator for Michigan Sea Grant. “Marinas – all marinas – play an important role in the critical areas of where land meets water. The Clean Marina Program helps address how to protect those areas while looking at the long-term sustainability of a marina from a business perspective.”

The Michigan Clean Marina Program is a voluntary stewardship program open to all public and private marinas in the state. The designation process begins with a pledge to participate, followed by workshops where the marina management and staff receive a marina handbook, overview of the designation process and a review of best management practices related to topics such as storm water management, petroleum control, and boat maintenance and repair, among others.

The facilities then conduct self-evaluations of their environmental practices to determine strengths and weaknesses. After implementing improvements and reaching program benchmarks, the marina requests a visit by a CMP consultant, who evaluates the facility’s environmental stewardship. When the facility reaches established goals, it receives the designation as a clean marina.

“It’s great from a reducing-human-impact standpoint and it makes good business sense,” said Pistis. “Marinas need to be reflective of the attitudes and desires of their customers and they have to respond to what their customers know is important.”

The Clean Marina Program (CMP) is a joint undertaking by the Michigan Boating Industries Association, Michigan Sea Grant and the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality.

Marina affiliates interested in the program can get more information at the upcoming Clean Marina workshop on December 5 in Bay City. Registration is due by November 24 and can be made by visiting www.mbia.org or by calling Jeff Spencer at 517-241-5719.

See Clean Marina Brochure (a pdf)
These links are checked on the date of the article. As the article ages, some links may become invalid

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Boating
See Get Off The Couch

Swimmer Jim Dreyer Brings Adventures in Mentoring to Ottawa County

from a news release of The Holland Sentinal, "Man-to-man mentoring aims at getting active outdoors," by Jeremy Gonsoir, Nov 13, 2008

Now that Jim Dreyer has swum all the Great Lakes, he wants other guys to get outside too.

Dryer, a Byron Center resident, will take his Adventures in Mentoring program to Holland. The seven-week program hopes to pair men with young men from juvenile court, or the children of prisoners.

His hope is that men who feel unqualified to mentor, but who are comfortable doing outdoor activities will be willing to share their skills with young people. This will help the adults feel more at ease. Dreyer said, "We are saying 'hey share your passion with the next generation.'"

The mentor and young person will train in a clinic in such activities as hiking, kayaking, rock climbing, or mountain biking. The program will come to a conclusion with a weekend camp where the teams can compete in their newly learned sports.

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Get Off The Couch

Gray Fox Seen in Mason, Manistee Counties

Gary Fox photo credit Gregg Heimall

by Joan H. Young

Although the red fox is much more commonly seen in Eastern woodlands, dotted with openings and fields, its gray cousin has been spotted recently in the local area.

Oddly enough, I saw one in Manistee myself on the same day that an article appeared in the Ludington Daily News about one being seen in Amber Township, in the Hidden Forest development near the US 10&31 interchange.

The sighting of the Mason County fox, pictured above, occurred at about 11:30 am, when the gray fox wandered through the residential area. It was observed by several people. Dan Rohde, nuisance wildlife trapper, was called. Rohde said the animal appeared to be healthy. It eventually wandered off after visiting a garage and taking a nap.

I spotted my gray fox at dusk, near the Lake Bluff Audubon House in Manistee, north of Orchard Beach State Park. When I mentioned it to the caretaker, Rich Krieger, he replied, "Oh, yeah, we have a family of them that live here."

To be honest, this was all new to me. I've only been familiar locally with the sleek and sly red fox. The gray fox is more likely to be found in wooded areas or swamps, whereas the red fox likes to hunt in open fields. Reds den up in dirt burrows, grays like rocky dens, but in the East will often choose the base and roots of a hollow tree for a home.

Both types are omnivores, eating both meat and plants. Foxes, in fact, will eat almost anything: birds and their eggs, snakes, mice, rats, acorns, berries and fruit, grasshoppers and crickets.

A significant difference is that the gray fox can and will climb trees. Occasionally it will do this to forage for food, more often to find a safe place to rest.

Red Fox at Orchard Beach SP 2007 photo credit Joan Young

The gray fox is usually a bit smaller than a red fox, and the one pictured above is a very typical coloration. They are gray above and reddish below with patches of white at the the throat, chest, and around the eyes. The tail has a black stripe running the length of the upper side. Gray foxes have black-tipped tails, while reds have a white-tipped tail.

To be honest, when I first spotted the one I saw, I thought it was a cat because of the size and the way it held its tail. However, when it moved, and trotted under a yard light, I realized that it was a small fox, in a color pattern that I did not recognize.

Any wild animal acting normally should be left alone. As long as it does not appear to be ill, and is not acting in a threatening manner, just enjoy the chance you have to observe a creature of the wild.

See Gray Fox at NatureWorks.
These links are checked on the date of the article. As the article ages, some links may become invalid

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Get Off The Couch

Ken Burns National Park Series Coming Sept 2009

Grand Canyon in winter

a news release of theOutdoor Industry Association

Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) has announced documentary filmmaker Ken Burns as the keynote speaker at the Industry Breakfast on Thursday, January 22. Mr. Burns will kick off the Outdoor Retailer Winter Market with a sneak peak at his newest film, THE NATIONAL PARKS: AMERICA’S BEST IDEA airing on PBS in September 2009, to the industry.

Filmed over the course of more than six years at some of nature’s most spectacular locales — from Acadia to Yosemite, Yellowstone to the Grand Canyon, Florida’s Everglades to Alaska’s Gates of the Arctic — THE NATIONAL PARKS: AMERICA’S BEST IDEA is a six-part, 12-hour documentary series by Ken Burns on the history of America’s national parks. This is a story of people: people from every conceivable background — rich and poor; famous and unknown; soldiers and scientists; natives and newcomers; idealists, artists and entrepreneurs — who were willing to devote themselves to saving some precious portion of the land they loved and in doing so, reminded their fellow citizens of the full meaning of democracy.

Ken Burns has been making documentary films for more than 30 years. Since the Academy Award-nominated Brooklyn Bridge in 1981, he has gone on to direct and produce some of the most acclaimed historical documentaries ever made. The late historian Stephen Ambrose said of Burns' films, “More Americans get their history from Ken Burns than any other source.” A December 2002 poll conducted by RealScreen Magazine listed The Civil War as second only to Robert Flaherty’s Nanook of the North as the “most influential documentary of all time” and named Burns and Robert Flaherty as the “most influential documentary makers” of all time.

THE NATIONAL PARKS, airing in September 2009 on PBS, will be a national television event with a major PBS advertising and public awareness campaign launching in January designed to engage Americans across the nation in learning about this precious resource. At a time of economic uncertainty, the outdoors and our parks present an opportunity for our industry to remind our customers the outdoors helps improve mental and physical health and is a great means for escape in troubling times.

"This documentary is a timely and welcome opportunity for our industry," remarked Frank Hugelmeyer, president of OIA. "This spring, Americans will be seeking low cost ways to spend time with their friends and families. Outdoor activities such as camping and hiking will have special appeal and we as an industry can tap into the resources of PBS and the film promotion to reinvigorate consumers about the outdoors."

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Get Off The Couch

Michigan's Great Outdoors Conference

by Joan H. Young

Michigan's Great Outdoors (MGO) is a an informal partnership of tourism leaders in Manistee, Mason, Lake, Oceana, and Newaygo Counties. It's mission is to promote tourism and stimulate the economies of the member counties.

On October 27, MGO held their fifth annual conference at West Shore Community College. The 2008 Conference theme was "Tourism as an Economic Engine." Participants included Ken Wasco of Gordon Food Services; West Michigan Tourist Association President, Rick Hert; Laurence Farardeau, coordinator for Oakland County Planning and Economic Development Services; Sharon Nunnelee of West Michigan Trails and Greenways Coalition; and Dave Ivan of Michigan State University.

displays at the 2008 MGO Conference photo credit Wendy Marek

Wasco energized the group with his presentation "Wowing Customers One Generation at a Time." He pointed out that in 1975 consumers waited for seven minutes before forming a first impression. By 1991 that margin had been reduced to two minutes. Now, says Wasco, a business has seven seconds to make a first impression on a customer.

Topics covered by other speakers included tax incentives for filmmakers in Michigan, cultural tourism successes, and trails and tourism.

An expansive luncheon, prepared largely from locally produced foods was served.

Attendees included business owners with services and products related to tourism, and other interested individuals.

Sara Kronlein, Ludington Area Chamber of Commerce, described the conference as "a determined effort to foster local cooperation."

Michigan Great Outdoors President, Sandy Crandall, gave an update on the regional partnership. She said, "the organization is heading in the right direction. I think our group leadership is proactive... and problem solving."

The conference is held annually in late October or early November. If you are involved in tourism in any way, watch for the 2009 dates and register early. For the (early registration) price of $35, the information and networking opportunities is an outstanding value.

See Michigan's Great Outdoors
These links are checked on the date of the article. As the article ages, some links may become invalid

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Get Off The Couch

Fort Custer to Expand Winter Camping Opportunities

a news release of theMichigan DNR

Department of Natural Resources state park and recreation officials have announced Fort Custer Recreation Area near Battle Creek is expanding its winter camping opportunities this season to be one of 10 Michigan state park campgrounds that will stay open all winter.

The park's Whitford-Lawler Lake Group Camp and the Trailside Cabin and Lakeview Cabin will operate through the winter months to accommodate winter campers and sports enthusiasts.

"We are excited to offer these expanded opportunities to GO-Get Outdoors this winter to accommodate the needs of our campers," said Tony Trojanowski, park manager. "Last year we opened the Whitford-Lawler Lake Group Camp to scout troops who wanted to earn their arctic and winter camping merit badges, and other campers asked about staying in the cabins during the winter."

The two rustic cabins offer 12 bunk beds, propane heat, picnic tables both inside and outside, a fire circle and a picnic grill. There are vault toilets and a hand pump for water nearby. The Whitford-Lawler Lake Group Camp offers a hand pump for water, a vault toilet and fire circle.

All motor vehicles entering a state park or recreation area must display a Motor Vehicle Permit, available for purchase at the park entrance. Cost is $24 for a resident annual and $6 for a resident daily. A nonresident annual is $29 and a nonresident daily is $8.

See MiDNRreservations.com or call 1-800-447-2757 to make reservations
See Fort Custer State Park or call 1-269- 731-4200 to call the park
These links are checked on the date of the article. As the article ages, some links may become invalid

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Get Off The Couch

Owasippe Court Appeal Still Stands

from a news release of The Muskegon Chronicale, "Blue Lake: Owasippe move a good first step," by Lynn Moore, Nov 13, 2008

Despite the recent good news about the withdrawal of the purchase agreement for Camp Owasippe (see Owasippe Saved But Not Preserved), mixed signals from the Chicago Area Scout Council (CAC) continue. It has been revealed that the Boy Scout Council has not actually dropped the appeal of the court decision that upheld the right of Blue Lake Township to refuse to rezone the property.

It appears that the suit which was dropped was only an ancillary case about costs, not appeal of Judge William C. Marietti’s ruling against them. Chuck Dobbins, executive with the CAC says that the council wants to do things the right way. But newly re-elected township supervisor, Donald Studaven, points out that they are continuing the challenge of the judge’s decision.

Without a doubt the CAC intends to slim down the size of the camp, but everyone agrees that there need to be more parties at the table, working together, to decide how best to accomplish this task.

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Get Off The Couch

National Forest Recreation Fees Will Increase

by Joan H. Young

Local recreation in 2009 will be more expensive in the Manistee National Forest. The maintenance backlog at recreation sites in the Huron-Manistee National Forest (HMNF) has reached $1.4 million. Annual costs are approximately $400,000. Federal funding does not support these sites, and income from recreation fees falls far short with slightly more than $200,000 coming in each year.

What this means for all of us who enjoy an afternoon or a week playing in the one million federal acres near home is that we will pay more for that privilege. Daily fees in 2009 will rise to from $3 to $5. A weekly pass will now be $15 instead of $5, and you can cover a whole year and receive a windshield sticker for $35. This currently only costs $20.

Overnight camping at developed sites now ranges from being covered by an annual pass to $10 a night. Changes will eliminate that perk, and most camping will be $10 a night, and as much as $15 at horse camps. Dispersed camping will still be allowed at no charge. Some sites which are considered River Access Sites and not developed campsites, such as Sawdust Hole and Blacksmith Bayou on the Little Manistee will be only $5. Parking at Bowman Lake will become free, as there are no amenities at this location.

Carol Boll, Recreation Program Manager for the forest, noted that recreation enhancements funds do come back to the local forests. Each forest receives 80% of fees collected in a given year. The remaining 20% is held over till the following year to cover potential drops in recreation use.

Perhaps most significant is that some local areas will be closed. Dorner Lake and Udell Rollways campground are being closed this year. Driftwood Valley and the Arboretum Trail will be closed at the end of the 2009 season. Pine Lake Campground, and Hoags Lake are also on the attrition list within five years. Rainbow Bend will be closed to camping.

Boll states that to replace one portable toilet costs $15,000. Maintaining the 112 developed sites within the HMNF just will not be possible in the future. Each of the sites is rated by priority. Locations that receive the highest rating include areas such as Wild and Scenic Rivers, Heritage sites such as the Lumbering Monument, National Scenic Trails, and the unique Loda Lake Wildflower Preserve. The areas which will be closed represent the lowest priorities and use. Closure means that all picnic tables, fire rings, toilets, fences, and signage will be removed. The areas may still be accessed by users, but there will be no amenities.

See Huron-Manistee National Forest
These links are checked on the date of the article. As the article ages, some links may become invalid

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Get Off The Couch

Crystal Mountain to Host 11th Women's Winter Tour on Super Bowl Weekend

from a news release of M-Live, "Women's Winter Tour: Charity, chocolate and good nature at Crystal Mountain Resort, by Andrea Tamboer, Nov 10, 2008

Women, chocolate, and a charitable cause all add up to a fun weekend in northern Michigan. It's always held on Super Bowl weekend; this season that's Jan 30- Feb 1, 2009.

Crystal Mountain Ski Resorts hosts this annual event where the men serve the ladies who take to the cross-country ski trails. Over the years the plans have grown to include snowshoe tours, chocolate-making classes, spa treatments, a film festival, wine tastings, skiing discounts, a dance and the cross country event. New this year is an activity called First Tracks, which gives participants the chance to downhill ski on Crystal's back slopes for an hour on Sunday for a nominal fee before the slopes open to the public for the day.

You could be skiing along a trail when suddenly a man might pop from the woods and offer you a chocolate chip cookie!

The event has grown to become one of the largest women's winter events in the country, with 800-1000 ladies participating. Over its ten years it has raised more than $150,000 for women's shelters and domestic abuse charities over the years.

"Just remember the three Cs: community, charity and chocolate," advised event organizer, Kaye Krapohl.

See Crystal Mountain
These links are checked on the date of the article. As the article ages, some links may become invalid

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Get Off The Couch

Little Mistakes on the Little Manistee

Shaun Ensign shares his kayak advice about the Little Manistee

advice by Shaun Ensign, as reported by Joan H. Young

"Don’t underestimate the river!" Mistake number one. "Don’t start at 7:00 in the evening." Mistake number two.

Shaun Ensign, recently elected Vice President of the Spirit of the Woods Chapter of the North Country Trail Association, shared his experiences kayaking the infamous stretch of the Little Manistee River between 9-Mile and 6-Mile Bridges.

If you are out for a family-friendly paddle, you should probably skip this section of river. In a letter to the editor of the Manistee News Advocate one family who attempted this stretch were rescued by local residents. They wrote, "Things went from challenging to downright scary farther downstream, even life threatening, when our youngest paddler was somehow trapped underwater with the kayak over his head. The frequency and violence of our capsizing events increased..."

Ensign, and friend, Ryan, who owns Manistee Paddlesports, are strong young men who took their adventure this past summer in stride. Shaun says that the 6-mile section of fast-running river took 3 hours and 45 minutes to complete. However, he estimates that about a third of that time was spent carrying the kayaks, portaging, and getting themselves removed from log jams. They expected a lovely evening paddle, and instead endured a long, foggy, difficult trip. They finished near midnight, badly scratched and bruised.

While the river has some small rapids, that is not the issue. It is known for the quick water, tight bends and numerous obstructions. In many places there are log jams that completely block the passage and portages are required.

With shallow and deep water alternating you will find deep out-bends, and shallow in-bends. One of the interesting characteristics of the river is the very shallow inside of the bends and the deep out-bends that are often obstructed. This forces the paddler to decide between smashing into trees and shrubs on the outside or getting hung up on gravel on the inside. There are also numerous dead-end side channels which look no different from the route a paddler should take until the dead end is reached.

The section between 9-MIle Bridge and 6-Mile Bridge has a gradient of 14 feet per mile. As a comparison, the famously challenging Pine River has an average gradient of 9.9 feet per mile. Shaun said that they faced some new challenge nearly every five minutes.

He seriously suggests that you consider a different segment of the river. For families, the BIg Manistee or Pere Marquette are recommended. Both rivers are much less challenging. If you feel that you want to try this segment, precisely because of the challenge, allow all day for your adventure and take emergency supplies.

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Boating
See Get Off The Couch

Owasippe Saved But Not Preserved

Scout musician Rich Patenaude plays "To The Colors" at Camp Blackhawk a division of Camp Owasippe photo courtesy of The Scarlet Sassafras

by Joan H. Young

"Owasippe is saved but not yet preserved" was the opening banner in the newest issue of The Scarlet Sassafras the newsletter created to inform readers about the health and well-being of Camp Owasippe. (See Oldest Operating Boy Scout Camp Still Fighting for Its Life)

After a long fight, and victory in the court system, the sale of the oldest operating Boy Scout Camp in the United States was blocked. The Holland developer and prospective purchaser, Ben Smith III, had been planning to appeal the decision of Judge William C. Marietti. (See Bench Trial Continues for Camp Owasippe and Blue Lake Township) The Judge ultimately decided, in March 2008, in favor of Blue Lake Township, Michigan, which had declined to rezone the property so that the sale could proceed. Smith intended to build 1200 homes on the property in a rural township with no water or sewer infrastructure.

Now, Smith has decided to withdraw his offer and no longer pursue the battle in the courts. Scouters across the nation are breathing a collective sigh of relief. The battle has cost not only $1 million dollars for the Chicago Area Council, and as much for rural Blue Lake Township, but many relationships within the Scout organization have been damaged.

"Much work still needs to be done, but at least it seems we're on the right path. A million dollars of scout money was spent on this adventure and incredible hard feelings were created on both sides of Lake Michigan," was the comment of a Chicago resident.

Efforts at rebuilding relationships seem to have begun. As part of the agreement the CAC has said that because of the outpouring of support for camping programs at the Owasippe Scout Reservation from its many constituencies, they will determine the right size for the camp and rebuild a world-class camping facility for the Chicago Scouts. Ben Smith, represented through Benny V Partners, states that what he wanted all along was to preserve some of the unique places on the property and he is happy to know that will be accomplished.

Ron Kulak, editor of The Scarlet Sassafras continued, "All involved should take great pride and solace in YOUR great accomplishment. This was done not only for future generations of Scout campers but also for those who came before us and who could not be here now for this moment of achievement. They gave us strength and inspiration and are with us in spirit."

The celebration will begin with the Owasipalooza Pizza Night at the end of November. Discussion is likely to center on what will now be the future of the 4800-acre camp. The Chicago Area Council has consistently maintained that the camp is in decline, and unprofitable, despite continued and increasing attendance throughout the summer sessions. Resizing of the area managed for the camp is certainly likely.

A non-profit organization, the Owasippe Outdoor Education Center, was founded in 2006 in the hopes of purchasing the camp and preserving it intact. The OOEC would continue to provide the Scouts use of the property but also increase use with year-round, family oriented activities and camping. Donations to the OOEC, and the Owasippe Forever Fund are possible at the organization’s web site.

Words from the Owasippe Chant seem an especially appropriate final thought. "Sing out loud and strong with a heart that's brave and free. Let us sing a joyful carefree song. Sons of Owasippe."

See The Scarlet Sassafras
See Owasippe Outdoor Education Center
These links are checked on the date of the article. As the article ages, some links may become invalid

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Get Off The Couch

"Planet Backpacker" Release and Book Signing Today!

excerpted from the Traverse City Record-Eagle, "Book Review: Trek brings world into view," by Tom Carr, Nov 2, 2008

"It had always been my dream to travel around the world," said Bob Downes, 56, of Traverse City. "I didn't want to be on my death bed thinking I never did that," he added.

Bob Downes pedaled a 20-year-old mountain bike throughout Europe and Asia about a year ago and wrote a book about his experiences. "Planet Backpacker," published by The Wandering Press, is due out early this month. The book will retail for $13.95.

Downes made the trek alone with a backpack and a backpack-size guitar to experience parts of the world he'd never visited. He took four-and-a-half months to make the trip from September 2007 to January 2008.

He says he wrote the book in 100 Internet cafes around the world and he writes of his experiences and of the interesting people he met throughout the trip.

He found there were "thousands of backpackers in the Third World, but practically no Americans. It was kind of a shocking thing," he added.

Downes publishes a newspaper called Northern Express, Northern Michigan's largest newsweekly.

There will be a book release party at 5 p.m. Nov. 13 at the Right Brain Brewery. He will have a book-signing and presentation from 1-3 p.m. Nov. 29 at Horizon Books.

See Northern Express
These links are checked on the date of the article. As the article ages, some links may become invalid

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Get Off The Couch

Arizona Jogger Wrestles Rabid Fox into Trunk, Drives to Hospital

from KPNX-TV

Michelle Felicetta was out for her daily run on a Chino Valley, Arizona trail. On forested Granite Mountain, near Prescott, Ms. Felicetta noticed a fox. Instead of fleeing, the fox ran up to her and bit her on the toe. The fox next lunged at her knee and bit her.

Michelle says that she realized right away the fox must be rabid. She grabbed the animal by the neck and ran a mile back to her car. She said, “It started thrashing in my hand, and it latched onto my left arm.” But the intrepid jogger had no intention of being deterred.

When she arrived at her car she pried open the fox’s jaws, wrapped it in a sweatshirt and put it in the trunk. From there she drove directly to a hospital where the fox was tested. It was positive for rabies.

Both Ms. Felicetta and the animal control officer are undergoing the series of rabies vaccinations. The officer was also bitten while removing the fox from the car.
These links are checked on the date of the article. As the article ages, some links may become invalid

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Get Off The Couch

New Plan for Official U.S. Bicycle Route System Approved by National Transportation Authority

a National Bike Trail System is the vision of Adventure Cycling

excerpted from a news release of Pedal Pushers OnLine

The United States is on a path to creating what could become the largest official bicycle route network in the world, thanks to the approval of a new plan by America's leading authority on national route designations. The American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) has just approved a National Corridor Plan laying out the framework and guidelines for the development of this system.

The plan identifies corridors connecting America's urban, rural, and suburban areas. The corridors cover well over 50,000 miles, which, if transformed into routes along roads and trails, would create the largest official bicycle route network in any country or on any continent. By comparison, the planned Euro-Vélo network in Europe is projected to be 60,000 kilometers or 36,000 miles.

The U.S. plan has been under development for nearly four years under the auspices of an AASHTO task force on national bicycle routes, with representatives from federal and state transportation agencies and nonprofit organizations. The plan has gone through more than a dozen revisions—with input from hundreds of federal and state officials, cycling advocacy groups, and individuals—as well as review and approval by AASHTO's committees on traffic engineering, design, and non-motorized transportation.

The development of a U.S. route system follows the path of many other countries and regions that are establishing bicycle networks for transportation, recreation, and tourism. The United Kingdom has rapidly grown its National Cycle Network from 4,000 miles in 2000 to more than 12,000 miles today. Other European countries with major networks include Germany (approximately 7,000 miles), Denmark (2,400 miles), the Netherlands (2,700 miles) and Switzerland (3,000 miles). Other notable networks can be found in Western Australia and the Province of Quebec, which unveiled its very popular 2,400 mile La Route Verte (the "Green Way") in August 2007.

Research is showing that well-designed cycling networks generate major increases in non-motorized trips.

See Adventure Cycling >
See AASHTO
These links are checked on the date of the article. As the article ages, some links may become invalid

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Bicycling
See Get Off The Couch

102-Year-Old Saginaw Bridge Will Become Trail

Saginaw's State Street Bridge over the Cass River photo credit: Bernie Eng- The Saginaw News

from a news release of The Saginaw News, by Robert Acosta, "Long-closed bridge could open for trail users in Bridgeport Township," Oct 27, 2008

A 256-foot long, multi-span Pratt Truss Bridge will be reclaimed from the vines and shrubs. The city of Saginaw's State Street Bridge over the Cass River is 102 years old, and has been closed since 1976. Only six multi-span truss bridges remain intact in Michigan.

But in April 2009 work will begin to make the bridge a part of Saginaw's trail system. Bridgeport Township Supervisor, Pat Gilles, called the plan a "focal point" for a proposed trail system. From the bridge a trail would progress through Lyle Park to Fort Street Bridge. Additional easements are being sought, and a Great Lakes Discovery Center is being planned.

Such projects do not come cheap... this one will cost $1.7 million. Contributors to the reconstruction are the township, the downtown development authority, Michigan DOT, and federal funds. The federal dollars come from a fund called Transportation Enhancements, first created as IS-TEA. (Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act). With each new congress some changes have occurred, and the program is now SAFETEA-LU. Nevertheless, funds have continued to be available for such "enhancements" as hiking and bicycling trails.

Construction has a tentative completion date of November 2009.

See Fact Sheet onTransportation Enhancements
These links are checked on the date of the article. As the article ages, some links may become invalid

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Get Off The Couch

Did The Ice Age Ever Get to the Flamingos?

Janusz and Dorata Zak

excerpts from Janushhiker's 2008 report with permission and some comments by Joan H. Young

Remember From Ice Age to Flamingos? In 2006 Janusz and Dorata came through western Michigan and it was my pleasure to spend an afternoon with them. At that point they had completed fewer than 1000 miles of their trek from the Ice Age Trail in Wisconsin to Florida. The plan was to do a section each summer, but many such plans become lost in the business of life. So how's their trek going?

Janushiker says:
In April, 2006 I started hiking (with my backpack) on a long distance trail from Wisconsin to Florida. The trip was meant to be about one year long journey. Being a music teacher I've realized quickly that it would be hard for me to get back to my studio after such a long break. The new version of the trip was that it will be completed in 4 summers worth of travel. The estimated length of the "Ice Age To Flamingo" project is about 4400 miles. This year brought me to about 2750 miles so I think I will need another two summers to complete this hiking project. Below is the statistical summary.

Year 2006 1200 miles on Ice Age and North Country Trails. The states are Wisconsin and Michigan.
Year 2007 900 miles on North Country, Buckeye and biking trails. The states are Michigan, Ohio and West Virginia.
Year 2008 670 miles on Allegheny Mountain and Appalachian trails.
The states, West Virginia, Virginia, Tenessee and North Carolina.
Total approximately 2800 miles or 4480 kilometers.

a looming storm on the Allegheny Trail by Janushhiker

The Allegheny Trail should not to be confused with the other Allegheny Trail which runs from Pittsburg, Pennsylvania east toward Washington, DC and it is generaly a biking trail. There is another biking trail called Allegheny Highlands Trail somewhere in the middle of the state of West Virginia. The trail we've followed is sometimes refered to as Allegheny Mountain Trail.

Starting as a roadwalk, passing through the state parks with a sizable waterfall, the trail changed character as we've entered Monongahela National Forest. The trail has become a "real" forest trail. Sometimes overgrown with ferns, with the blazes so faint and far apart that it was a challenge to navigate here.

The trail in the mountains has quite wilderness appeal. We have spotted two bears, many deer, and have met cute salamanders snakes hundreds of butterflies. Allegheny Trail, which we followed at first, is no match to the famous brother (or sister) to the south, namely the Appalachian Trail. It is not as well traveled as the AT nor it is so well maintained. There are some stretches of the trail where the yellow blazes are faint or nonexistent. There are some stretches where, because of blowdowns, the trail is hard to follow at all. Probably because of that we have met only a few hikers on this trail.

flaming boots? by Janushhiker

Here on the mountain we have been tested by four sizable storms with heavy downpours and scary lightning strikes. According to my brother Chris, the whole mountain was shaking from the thunder. Fortunate again we were able to rich the shelter before the worst weather. The next morning my boots caught on fire when I tried to dry them too vigorously.

On Iron Mountain segment we've met Joshua. He was carrying a mandolin on which he could play some nice folk and rock tunes. It was my pleasure to tune the mandolin to standard 440 A, but he preferred higher pitch. We've hiked together for few days until city of Hampton, TN. He and his brother gave us the ride to the town so we could resupply and eat fresh food, yummy.

Next year hike will probably begin at the 20 mile Ranger Station on what is now Benton McKaye Trail or BMT. Following closely the ridge of Appalachian Mountains and the Tennessee North Carolina border into Cohuta Wilderness in Georgia where it will connect to the Pinhoti Trail. On Pinhoti into Alabama and on the road (highway 77) to the West Point Reservoir area on the Chattahoochee River. I am still not certain how to get through Alabama to Florida Trail. There are several options, but neither of them seems to be safe. I will probably float Chattahoochee until it reaches Apalachicola National Forest to the conjunction with the Florida Trail. Some additional research has to be done. Until next year.

See all the text and photos at Janushhiker's Web Page
These links are checked on the date of the article. As the article ages, some links may become invalid

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Get Off The Couch

Sleeping Bear Proposes More Rec Opportunities

Sleeping Bear Dunes looking north from Empire Bluff photo from the National Park Service credit Terry Phipps

by Joan H. Young

The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore has completed its Final General Management Plan/Wilderness Study/Environmental Impact Statement. Proposals for several big changes are contained in the document. Already the plan has stirred up controversy in the few days since its release.

Changes that will immediately appeal to outdoor adventurers are a proposal for a 35-mile hiking trail, which will be called the Bay to Bay Trail. It will parallel the lakeshore from Platte Bay to Good Harbor Bay. Several primitive campsites are planned and it is meant to attract hikers for multiple-day backpacking trips. Nearby landowners have already expressed concerns that the trail might encroach on their properties even though no detailed route has yet been determined.

Bicyclists will also be gifted with a new trail. A $7 million dollar bike path is proposed to roughly parallel M-22 and M-109, near the highways but not on the shoulder. A crushed limestone tread is planned.

One significant change in allowed uses is that electric motors will be allowed on boats in Otter, Tucker, and Bass Lakes.

There are plans to create 32,100 acres of designated wilderness within the Lakeshore, which is about 45% of the park. This will include portions both on the mainland and islands. Concerns about this designation are being voiced, as local residents do not wish to lose access to the park. Authorities are responding that no County Roads will be closed, although some back routes of lower status may be impacted.

The Park Service has emphasized that they respect all private property rights, and have no authority over state or county roads.

Originally the area of the popular interpretive Cottonwood Trail was included in the wilderness designation. However when the public input process revealed that this trail was often used for environmental education with large groups of school children the area was removed from the proposed wilderness designation. Large group activities are incompatible with wilderness status.

See National Park Service portal to access all of the documents of the plan, including a map.
See Changes coming to Sleeping Bear?, Traverse City Record-Eagle, Nov 9, 2008
These links are checked on the date of the article. As the article ages, some links may become invalid

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Get Off The Couch

Muskegon Hiker Does the Manistee NCT - A Long Walk In the Woods

by Bruce Sparks of Muskegon

The best way I can think to describe my week is this slight modification of the title of Bill Bryson's book on his ill-fated journey on the Appalachian Trail. His book is titled, "A Walk in the Woods". Over and over during the week I found myself talking to myself and saying that I was just enjoying a long walk in the woods. And really that is just what it was.

I noticed that my wife looked a little uncertain as I shouldered the pack and headed off down the trail away from Mesick, Michigan. Her discomfort might have grown a little as not 20 minutes after she left me we both heard the same thunder and were in the same storm. Only Susan was dry in the car and I was getting my first good dousing of the early week. It rained off and on the rest of the day, night and morning of the next day. Interspersed among the rain drops were 4 fairly substantial hail storms. I actually preferred the hail since I didn't get wet from the little icy pellets as they bounced off me.....and with 5 layers of clothes on I didn't feel them either.

This section of the North Country Trail had just been completed this summer and although officially certified and marked it was not yet on any of the trail maps I had purchased. The trail went right along the edge of the Hodenpyl Dam Pond....actually a large lake. It could have passed for one of the lakes in northern Canada that I have loved canoeing in so much.

Next I encountered the most demanding section of my hike as you go up and down following the ridges on the west side of the Manistee River Valley. Taking this long walk in November was an advantage because with 50% of the leaves already fallen you could see through the foliage and enjoy the views from the highest spots in the area. Yet there were still enough leaves and color to make it a spectacular view. It had been a long time since I had tried a long distance hike like this and I was unsure of my limitations But by the time it got pitch dark at 7:20pm (the sun had officially set around 6:40) I had covered over 18 miles comfortably that first day. That was a confidence builder.

The biggest disadvantage to hiking in November is that darkness comes early forcing you off the trail and into your tent. Then you can feel trapped waiting for the first signs of dawn that didn't come until just after 8:00am on this particular week. My pattern was to take a break on the trail and eat dinner and then not stop walking until at least 6:45 pm when I would put up my tent in twilight. The next morning I would be out of the tent by 7am and after packing up quickly (because it was cold) I would follow the trail for the first 30 minutes or so by the light of my small flashlight. I slept really well most nights.

At the end of the Day #2 I was way ahead of where I thought I would be. As I pitched my tent in a grove of big spruce trees it snowed big fluffy flakes for about 30 minutes. It was a Christmas type scene and I think I even sang a couple of Christmas carols out loud as I was settling in. Kind of magical.

One particular section on the next day had just one variety of tree that had golden yellow leaves. Most of the leaves had recently fallen and the whole area was blanketed in golden leaves that had not yet curled or dulled as they dried out. The whole area was an unbroken carpet of bright yellow and gold. Wow.

I was looking forward to a brighter warmer day for Day #4 and it was slowly warming up. At lunch I stopped to eat right on the banks of the Pere Marquette River. Not long after I began to prepare my lunch three older fishermen came floating down the river and chose to stop at this same spot for lunch. They had a big cooler full of food. They didn't offer me anything at all, but I wasn't coveting their stash because I was preparing another hot MRE for my meal.

I decided to stop at 3pm at a National Forest Campground because I wanted to build a fire that night and felt more comfortable doing so in one of the steel fire pits. I had fantasized about someone leaving a whole stack of nicely stacked unused wood at one of the campsites thus meaning I would not even have to gather wood. But that was just a fantasy and not reality. But it wasn't hard to gather my own and soon I had a blazing fire going. The sky was completely clear and I was camping in the field under a magnificent blanket of stars, that were not all dimmed by moonlight or any street lights or lights from town. It has been a long time since I sat for hours by a fire under a sky like that.

Day #5. This is an 8 mile section of trail in which you walk past six small lakes. As I walked down the trail towards the lakes the sun was coming high into the sky and warming everything up. For a while I walked with outstretched arms just trying to soak it all in. I sat down for 30 minutes or so just before noon at the first lake that I came to. I'm sure this lake wasn't even an acre big but it was beautiful with the fall colors bordering it. The light breeze was blowing across the surface and the sunlight was sparkling as if the lake was full of diamonds just below the surface. I can be mesmerized watching the patterns in the water.

On Day #7 I passed a solo hiker who was able to tell me that I was about a two hour hike from the end at Croton Dam and so I was able to call my wife who met me soon after I finished at 3:30. The maps says I walked 139 miles during the week.

The best memory was watching a bald eagle swoop over one of the small lakes. I began to think how I could not have enjoyed this glorious moment if not for some of the less pleasant moments that preceded it......the cold of the night before, the monotony of some of the miles, the chill of the rain. None of those times were so bad and I even enjoyed them in an odd way but they weren't highlight moments. They were the kind of moments that most of life is made up of. Some rough times, but mostly okay times... even good times, but not earth-shaking thrilling stop the presses times. But it seems to me that if I will be faithful and consistent in these more mundane times then the reward is the occasional incredible moment that is simply priceless. I think it applies to our marriages and a lot of other things. I want to keep on going, trying to be steady as I journey.

I have already had far more incredibly great mind blowing moments and memories then I deserve. But I believe there are more ahead if I don't stop.

See North Country Trail Association
These links are checked on the date of the article. As the article ages, some links may become invalid

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See North Country Trail- Manistee County
See North Country Trail- Mason County
See North Country Trail- Lake County
See Get Off The Couch

Lowell to Ionia Rail-Trail Connection Progress

from a master trail plan map of Michigan Trails and Greenways Coalition

fromThe Grand Rapids Press, "Lowell to Ionia recreation trail steps forward," by Aaron Ogg, Nov 7, 2008

The West Michigan Trails and Greenways Coalition (WMTGC) recently bought a 15.8-mile chunk of abandoned railroad grade from Lowell to Ionia. This is in keeping with the master plan to create new recreation trail.

WMTGC prefers not to directly own land, and it is expected that their ownership will be temporary. Volunteer groups, such as Friends of the Fred Meijer Heartland Trail, will play a large role in developing and maintaining the route.

Agreements with the three counties along the section will also need to be formulated. Those are Ionia, Shiawasee and Clinton counties.

The city of Ionia is excited by this action. The new trail will provide a non-motorized connection to the Ionia State Recreation Area, the Ionia Fairgrounds, and downtown Ionia.

The right-of-way was purchased from RailAmerica Inc.

See West Michigan Trails and Greenways Coalition
These links are checked on the date of the article. As the article ages, some links may become invalid

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Get Off The Couch

Big M Added to Get Off The Couch

Big M map- right click to see full size

by Joan H. Young

It has been my goal to get the Big M trail system on the Get Off The Couch web site for over a year. Let me just say that Big M is, well, big! Big M is located in Udell Hills nine miles east of Manistee, Michigan and west of Wellston. Just to add extra confusion to the name, it was formerly operated as the Ward Hills ski area until the 1970s.

The trails were laid out professionally in the 1950s by John Capper who lived in the area. Designing ski trails was his life work. Big M is one of the largest trail complexes in Michigan with 30 kilometers of groomed ski trails. There is an additional outer loop of 39 kilometers designed for mountain bike riding. In the summer bikers may ride any of the trails. Also, the North Country National Scenic Trail traverses the hills.

Of course, hiking any of the trails is popular, and snowshoeing is allowed as long as you walk beside the groomed tracks rather than in them.

the Lumberjack Trail in autumn

The ski trails are maintained by the Manistee Cross Country Ski Council. Michigan Mountain Biking Association works on the outer loop trails. The North Country Trail is maintained by the Spirit of the Woods Chapter of the NCTA. All these volunteer groups work in cooperation with the Manistee National Forest, which owns the property.

In the past two years the Ski Council has been working hard to revitalize signage. It used to be a wonder that people were not constantly lost in the Udell Hills. Now all the junctions in the eight ski loops are numbered, signed and provided with maps, making the whole area much more user friendly.

There is no other guide currently in existence for this trail system. There are still a few tweaks to do, a couple of short, missing trail descriptions, and a link from the Manistee County map. But it's loaded and usable. At the present time, descriptions of the bike trails are taken from a flyer prepared by B.U.T.T.E.R, the Big Udell Trail & Tarmac Eco Riders. This was a group of students from Manistee High School who wrote the first guide to the bike loops. This brochure is not readily available any more, so I've quoted their colorful comments for now.

Get Off The Couch offers guides and information on over 70 locations in Manistee, Mason, Lake and Oceana Counties where you can enjoy quiet, muscle-powered recreation in an outdoor setting.

See Big M at Get Off The Couch
See Manistee Cross Country Ski Council
See Michigan Mountain Biking Association
See Spirit of the Woods Chapter of the NCTA
See Manistee National Forest
These links are checked on the date of the article. As the article ages, some links may become invalid

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Big M
See Get Off The Couch

White Gold for Only $189

photo courtesy of Crystal Mountain

from the Michigan Snowsports Industries Association

White Gold is your ticket to a great ski season. The Michigan Snowsports Industries Association (MSIA) is producing their popular White Gold Card again this year. The card allows you to use the slopes one time at each of the 29 ski areas in Michigan that participate in the program.

The card also gives you one free ski or snowboard tune-up at over 40 participating MSIA ski shops.

"The White Gold Card is an exceptional value," says Steve Kershner, MSIA chairman and Snowsports Director at Shanty Creek. "If you paid for a lift ticket at each of these ski areas and brought your skis in for a tune-up, you would be spending over $900."

The card looks like a credit card, divided into squares. Each ski area is assigned to a square and one square is designated for the ski tune-up. The purchaser takes the White Gold Card to the ski area’s lift ticket window, where the square corresponding to that ski area is punched out. White Gold Card skiers are allowed to ski one time at each ski area, midweek or weekend. The card is valid for the entire ski season, except for December 24, 2008 through January 4, 2009. The cards are non-refundable and non-transferable.

Only 400 of these cards are printed each season and they tend to sell out early. If you like to ski or ride and enjoy a variety of slopes and trails, it's a deal.

See Michigan Snowsports Industries Association
These links are checked on the date of the article. As the article ages, some links may become invalid

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Get Off The Couch

Check Out Black Lake

Black Lake is a tiny gem tucked into the NE corner of Mason County. The northern third is in the Manistee National Forest. No amenities, and your sedan may not make it down the Forest Roads to find it, but if you do you are sure to enjoy a restful break.

All you have to do to visit there today is assemble the puzzle! Details coming soon to Get Off The Couch

Check back often for puzzles of local interest.

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Get Off The Couch

Trekking Poles and other Expert Advice

How To Use Trekking Poles -- powered by ExpertVillage.com

by Joan H. Young

Expert Village has produced a series of videos covering many basic techniques of hiking and backpacking, skiing, and climbing. These are available at MountainZone.com.

One recent addition is this one on the use of trekking poles. This hiking video covers the importance of using trekking poles, also called hiking poles. Trekking poles have many uses on both day hikes and overnight hikes. They help you stabilize your weight and thrust yourself forward. Hiking poles can help you catch yourself when you start to fall and prevent you from becoming seriously hurt. These poles also give you something to lean on and take a rest. Furthermore trekking poles can be used to reach for something or scare off wildlife, such as dangerous snakes or spiders. Trekking poles are useful on all types of hiking trips.

It's all good advice, but one should always keep a few things in mind when receiving tips from the experts. Experts may not have hiked in all conditions, terrain, and geographic locales. These issues can affect the advice. To believe that a 1-minute video is going to cover all the options is naive.

Experts may be in a different age group from you. Perhaps the best plan for someone in their 20's may not be the best way, or even a possible way, for someone in their 60's to accomplish the same task.

Finally, there is usually more than one way to do anything.

My own comments on this featured video would be: it's so much better for the trails if pointed trekking poles would be used less. The points dislodge soil, and this disturbance can be easily seen on any trail where many hikers with pointed poles have passed by. Of course you may call me a Luddite, but I still like my wooden stick with a rubber crutch tip on the end for traction. I'd also not advise you to be flipping snakes off the trail with a stick. Most importantly, snakes are actually fragile creatures. Unless you are in imminent danger from a snake that you know to be poisonous, just walk around it off the edge of the trail. A whack or even a toss with a stick can break a snake's ribs and injure or kill the snake. Broken ribs can lead to a long slow death. Do you wish this on any creature of the wild? Ditto for spiders and insects... wiping down a web across the trail is one thing. Don't use your pole as a weapon to kill animals, even those with six or eight legs.

On the positive side, a stick can be a good threat to dogs which are prone to run out toward hikers on road-walks. Although I would never strike a dog with the intent of injuring it, I am more than willing to threaten loose dogs with a raised stick to keep them out of the road or from trying to follow me. Most dogs get the message of a harsh voice and raised stick. One of my worst nightmares is that someone's pet will be hit by a car while it is focused on chasing me out of its territory. I've left way too many dogs standing on the pavement even after I am out of what it considered to be its space. I say a prayer and close my eyes.

A hiking stick has saved me from many a fall. It's too easy to lose your balance with a heavy pack on your back, especially when crossing brooks on stones. The stick provides a third leg, so that you can always keep two points on firm ground- well, if you remember to do it that way! And the stick is great for holding back those tenacious berry bushes and greenbrier that grow across eastern trails in sunny areas.

So even if you are young, give a hiking stick or two a try. You may like it!

For other videos on a variety of outdoor topics, visit MountainZone.com

See MountainZone.com
These links are checked on the date of the article. As the article ages, some links may become invalid

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Hiking
See Get Off The Couch

Big Mosquitoes are Safer Mosquitoes

photo from the Michigan DNR

from a news release of University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign , "Smaller mosquitoes are more likey to be infected with viruses causing human diseases," Nov 3, 2008

An entomologist at the Illinois Natural History Survey says smaller mosquitoes are more likely to be infected with viruses that cause diseases in humans.

Barry Alto, Ph.D., Director of the Medical Entomology Program at the Illinois Natural History Survey, and several colleagues, fed mosquitoes blood with dengue virus and later tested them for infection. The researchers painstakingly took into account the size of each mosquito by measuring the length of their wings. Smaller-sized mosquitoes had higher infection and potential to transmit dengue virus than larger individuals. Other components, such as adult longevity, host preference, and feeding frequency, that determine a mosquito's vectoring ability still need to be taken into account in future studies.

The Asian tiger and yellow fever mosquitoes are the two main transmitters of dengue virus, the mosquito-borne virus of greatest importance to human health. Both of these mosquitoes are found throughout the world including the U.S. The ferocious tiger mosquito invaded Illinois in the 1990s. Now researchers have shown that only slight differences in the body sizes of these mosquitoes drastically alter their potential to transmit viruses causing human disease.

What's more surprising is that the effects were consistent for the two mosquito species.

Results of this study have important implications for mosquito control strategies and evaluation of disease risk for dengue. Competition among the larvae of container-breeding mosquitoes results in smaller sized adults. However, control strategies (e.g., larvacides) release surviving larvae from competition, resulting in the production of larger adult mosquitoes. Thus, a benefit of control strategies may be the production of larger, less competent adult mosquitoes in terms of infection. These results have the potential to provide information on disease risk and aid in control efforts of the diseases that mosquitoes transmit.

The Medical Entomology Program of the Illinois Natural History Survey originated out of concern for container mosquitoes. In recent times the program has invested much of its efforts towards addressing West Nile virus in Illinois as well as a program on encephalitis prevention.

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Get Off The Couch

AHS Provides Form Letter to Sec Kempthorne

American Hiking Society logo

from American Hiking Society

Take Action to Ensure that the National Park Service Maintains its Current Regulation on Bicycle Route Designation

Hikers, the National Park Service is considering a plan to relax their regulations that govern bicycles on trails - a change potentially made without public notice, review or comment. This could allow Park Superintendents to discriminately designate trails and trail use.

American Hiking Society supports the full involvement of hikers in policy development, funding, and planning and management decisions that potentially impact access to and the conservation of public recreation lands and the hiking experience.

Contact Secretary of the Interior Kempthorne and let him know that the hiking community's steadfast support and commitment to the National Park System is built on trust, transparency and full public engagement in their planning and regulatory decision-making processes.

Take action by using this form
These links are checked on the date of the article. As the article ages, some links may become invalid

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Get Off The Couch

Letterboxing- Family Fun Outdoors

logbook example (from letterboxing.org)

by Joan H. Young

Are you looking for a fun, low-impact, broad-age-spectrum, educational activity? Letterboxing may be just the ticket! It's a combination of geocaching, scavenger hunts, pen-pals, and a local version of a "parks passport."

The general idea is that you get a set of clues from the Letterboxing website. Follow the directions and it will lead you to a small, waterproof box "hidden" (pretty much in plain sight), usually on public property. The box will contain a logbook, a rubber stamp, a pen, and an ink pad. You bring your own logbook and personal stamp. Once you find the box you stamp the logbook there, date your entry and sign it- usually with a trail name. Your personal stamp may be commercially made or homemade, but should have some particular meaning to you. And you also stamp your own book with the stamp from the box.

One advantage of letterboxing over geocacheing is that you don't need a GPS unit. A compass can be handy, but the clues will be written and you can follow them in the way that you would solve any puzzle. This lends itself to family interaction more easily than trying to have several people juggle an electronic instrument.

Letterboxing should have little impact on the environment. Placement of boxes should not disturb vegetation, soil, or historic sites. Leave No Trace principles should apply as much for this as on a camping trip.

Letterboxing North America recommends that you quest for and find a few boxes before preparing one of your own. When you are ready to make your own you need only a few items. The most complicated will be a rubber stamp. The stamp should relate somehow to the location where the box will be located, or may commemorate an event or a person. It may be commercially made or homemade. Homemade ones are special, but are impossible to exactly duplicate if they are lost or damaged. Put the stamp, a pen, and a small notebook in a waterproof box. You need to find a good place to hide your box and write a set of clues that are neither too difficult nor too simple. Name your box and post your clues on the web site.

The concept of letterboxing began in England in the mid 1800s, supposedly with a business card left in a bottle. It has now caught on in America, with over 20,000 boxes hidden in the United States.

This past weekend an Ottawa County family enjoyed finding one, and even meeting some of the persons whose names and stamps they had come to know. You can read about their adventure at the link below.

Letterboxing.org lists 13 boxes in Mason County, 2 in Lake, 9 in Oceana, and 5 in Manistee County. There are a total of 176 in the greater west Michigan area.

For more complete information on getting started, visit Letterboxing North America
To read about the family adventure in Ottawa county see Family Fun in Michigan
These links are checked on the date of the article. As the article ages, some links may become invalid

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Get Off The Couch

Crystal Valley Ski Trail Opens Two More Loops

volunteers Mary Jo Bakker and Ellen Lightle work at removing a tree stump from new treadway

by Joan H. Young
a GOTC exclusive

Following the club motto to "Move forward until physically restrained," members and friends of the Oceana Cross Country Ski Association (OCCSA) have been working hard to complete two more of the projected five loops of the Crystal Valley cross-country ski trails this fall.

On a crisp Saturday morning six people met in in the russet and golden woods. They came with a mower complete with brush hog, chain saw, shovels, nippers, and a trunk full of lunch items to be prepared on a camp stove when the work was done.

Sid Whitaker mows down grass and shrubs to prepare the trail for skiing

Sid Whitaker of Crystal Valley brought his narrow Kubota tractor to brush down the grass and shrubs that were growing up in the beginner loop. The 39" wide machine was perfect to easily pass through the vehicle barriers and quickly perform the needed maintenance.

Members Mary Jo Bakker, Dick Sorenson, Donna Loney, and Ellen Lightle wielded various other tools. Dick worked the chain saw to quickly dispatch any large branches or trees that were blocking pathways. To use a chain saw as a volunteer within the National Forest he has completed a required Sawyer training course and has been certified.

Maggie the mutt and I showed up to provide moral support and take some pictures. The group seemed as happy to see us as if we had actually planned to do some real work!

The club's ambitious project for this year is to open two additional loops of the five planned for the site. They believe that they are on track for this to happen. Two loops have previously been completed. This will raise the amount of trail at Crystal Valley to more than ten miles!

Grooming is also done by OCCSA on a volunteer basis. They try to groom the trails, both at Crystal Valley and at Pentwater Pathway, whenever there are more than four inches of new snow.

Membership in OCCSA is very reasonable, at only $10 a year for individuals, or $30 for a family. Contact Donna Loney or more information

See Oceana Cross Country Ski Association (site under construction, more detailed information soon)
These links are checked on the date of the article. As the article ages, some links may become invalid

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Skiing
See Get Off The Couch

What Do You Think?

by Joan H. Young

Have you noticed that there is usually some non-scientific, but interesting (I hope) poll running in the right hand column?

The time just ran out on one that has been available for a few months. It posed the question: "How are gas prices affecting your hiking plans this summer? You can select more than one answer." There were 11 responders, and one of those people did select two answers. This is hardly a significant number of responses, but such as it is, 4 lucky people said that their hiking plans were not affected at all! One person said that they were taking one longer trip rather than more day hikes. Three people said they were hiking closer to home, and three more said they had cut back a bit. Two people reported that they were not traveling out of their local area. Perhaps we can conclude that the need to hike is so strong that it keeps the activity high on people's priority list.


The next poll will run for two months and focuses on the idea posed in the article License to Ski? from a few days ago. What do you think of paying more in order to have more assurance of maintained XC ski trails? If you have ideas or thoughts that aren't mentioned in the poll choices, please make a comment on the original article. I will convey the results of this poll to legislators who have been approached with this idea.

I know from the stats that there are more than 11 people reading this blog! Take a minute and add your voice.

Go To www.getoffthecouchnews.blogspot.com for all the news
See Skiing
See Get Off The Couch