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March 12, 2020
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Flora
The birch (Betulaceae) is a deciduous hardwood tree easily recognized by its distinguished thin bark, which peels away in layers like paper. The bark is usually white but can also be found in colors ranging from purple to salmon. There are 15 species of birch in the colder regions of the United States, with
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March 5, 2020
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Field Facts
“Earthbound souls know only the underside of the atmosphere in which they live . . . but go higher – above the dust and water vapor – and the sky turns dark until one can see the stars at noon.” Jacqueline Cochran was the first woman to fly faster than the speed of sound (Mach …
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February 27, 2020
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Field Facts
Humans (Homo sapiens) aren’t the only species who have found value in partnering with competing predators in the Canidae family. While early man and wolves formed hunting alliances which led to the rise of the domestic dog, other animals have also found value in developing symbiotic relationships with
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February 20, 2020
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Fauna
The red-tailed hawk (Buteo jamaicensis) is one of North America’s larger raptors, weighing in between two and four pounds with a wingspan up to 56 inches. This bird of prey with the distinctive rust-colored tail is found in just about every type of open habitat on the continent. Chances are there is a Red-Tail
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February 13, 2020
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Field Facts
Yellowstone National Park has the distinction of being the first national park ever created in the United States and also the first of its kind in the world. The Act of Dedication was signed into law on March 1st, 1872 by President Ulysses S. Grant and set aside more than 2 million acres in the …
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February 6, 2020
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Flora
The Monterey Cypress (Cupressus macrocarpa) is native to the Monterey Bay, California area, and has been cultivated throughout the western and southern United States. This cypress has high wind and aerosol salt tolerance, making it the perfect coastal tree. The Monterey Cypress is found naturally in only two
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February 1, 2020
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Gear Reviews
I have owned almost a dozen headlamps in my time. One “walked off” after a nighttime rescue, all the rest failed in some way or another. I don’t think that will ever be a problem with the SureFire Minimus. Contructed from aircraft aluminum that has been hard anodized. That means it won’t crack
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January 30, 2020
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Fauna
The Polar Bear (Ursus maritimus, which translates to maritime bear) is the apex predator of the Arctic. Spending most of its life on Arctic ocean sea ice, the Polar Bear is the only species of bear to be classified as a marine mammal. Polar bears can be found in Alaska, Canada, Greenland, Russia, and some
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January 23, 2020
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Field Craft
Whenever I’m out camping or hiking on a cool day, I always bring along a small selection of easy to make warm beverage packets and a small camp stove. Having a hot beverage available is great while taking a break on the trail and can be a real morale booster during unexpected changes in weather. …
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January 16, 2020
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Flora
The lichen is a remarkable composite organism that can be frequently seen attached to rocks, trees, and even the soil. Often confused for moss, the lichen is actually not a plant at all since it has no roots, stems, or leaves. Lichens are actually a partnership between two organisms: fungus and alga. The fungi
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