Crag Cleanup

Our latest endeavor found the e-tour on the border of Minnesota and Wisconsin in the Interstate Parks area of the St. Croix River Valley.   Teaming up with the Minnesota Climbers Association, and our dedicated State Advocate, Dave Rasmussen, we tackled cleaning up the Taylor's Falls climbing area.  The day started off with small teams of climbers policing the various crags for litter.   Participants helped clean up everything from cigarette butts and diapers to fishing line, hooks, and various beverage containers.

After the cleanup we met with area climbers and conducted an awareness workshop related to climbing.   The presentation stressed the importance of leaving nothing behind and stewardship of our lands.  It also touched on relevant issues pertaining to the impacts of climbing on the environment.  After it was all said and done we even had the opportunity to partake in some of the finest climbing in the region.  We would like to thank our Advocate Dave and the good folks at the Minnesota Climbers Association for welcoming us and and promoting stewardship in the climbing community.         

Paddling the Current

What visit to Missouri would be complete without a river trip.  Last year we were fortunate enough to paddle down the Jacks Fork river in the Ozark Scenic Waterway.  Drawn by its beauty we made it a point to return to the area to canoe the Current river. 

As we arrived in the area we were taken back by the storm damage from a tornado just a week earlier.  The tornado left trees broken and uprooted, knocked over telephone and power lines, and reeked havoc with homes.  Despite all the damage, once we put in on the river the beauty of the Ozark Scenic Waterway engulfed us.  

One of the first things that becomes apparent is the vast array of wildlife present in and around the river.  The river is teeming with crawfish, fish, and bugs, while turtles, snakes, and water fowl call the banks of the river home sweet home.  This certainly wasn't our first time to the area, but we hope it won't be our last.  

If your ever in southern Missouri, make the Ozark Scenic Waterway part of your plans.  Its a beautiful location and Leave No Trace will help us keep it this way.

Happy Trails, 

Topher and Alexis