Timberline Inn - Blog - Manitowish Waters, WI.

Manitowish Waters - 12/26/2009 - Update 12/27/09

2009-12-26T07:34:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Everyone,(12/27/09)

We took another ride yesterday. The trails firmed up really nice with the colder temps. Trails are Good+. Our grooming is currently scheduled for 6 days a week, with Monday or Tuesdays being the down day.

See you soon,

Rich

A Very Good Morning to Everyone,(12/26/09)

Well it looks like our Holiday storm is now passed.( I think) Some of current forecasts are still calling for chances of snow showers over the next 3 days. However, right now, the sunshine looks and feels pretty good. As far as our storm, well it was strange. Wednesday evening we received 4-6 inches, followed by and 2 or so on Thursday. Yesterday and last night it was just above freezing, so we had some snow, some sleet, and allot of cloudy skies. Early this morning the temps started falling and we are now in the teens. Everything is freezing up nicely.

SNOWMOBILING

The trails in the Manitowish Waters area are in "good" riding condition. The snow plus the warmer temps really did a nice job firming up our base. Yesterday, we had good riding up towards Presque Isle, and then over and back from Mercer. While we were riding in the afternoon, most of the trails were soft, but had good cover. With the now freezing temps, we should have some really solid bases for some time to come. Since my last comment, trail 11, from Winchester to MI, still has problems in the MI swamp.(Stay away) Other than that trail, most everything else seems pretty good. As far as the lakes, stay off! The recent snows have added some good weight to the ice. Fresh seepage can be seen in most all areas.

DOWNHILL SKIING

There are really no changes to the skiing reports, all areas are reporting good conditions. Indianhead Mtn. has a 42 inch base, 29 trails open, and 8 lifts running.

As far as the overall conditions, our winter weather couldn't be much better. Looking out through New Years, there are some snow chances, and our highs should stay in the low 20's.

If snowmobiling or skiing are your interests, you won't want to miss our current conditions. Pack up the skis, sleds and car. Join us for a nice holiday period.

As always, Drive and Ride Safely.

Rich

Manitowish Waters - 12/22/2009

2009-12-22T07:08:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Everyone.

Only 3 shopping days left, I hope everyone is ready for Christmas. The holiday season is upon us in the north woods, and we have the winter conditions to play with this year. On and off snow, another 1-2 inches yesterday, continued freezing temps, have all combined to paint our area, as Christmas should be. All of our winter activities are in full swing this year, snowmobiling, downhill skiing, x-country skiing, and snowshoeing. I hope your all ready.

SNOWMOBILING

The trails in the Manitowish Waters area were groomed again last night. Riders report the trails are in "good" condition. With all early season snows and trails, we lack the really hard base. On the other hand, we generally only get that base with some form of melt down, and this year, so far, that has yet to be seen. As far as area trails, I am hearing there is a current problem with trail 11, from MI, into Winchester. You need to check that trails status, however there are still other options in heading to and from MI.

DOWNHILL SKIING

Conditions in the UP continue to improve with our snows and cold temps. Indianhead Mtn. is reporting a 42 inch base, with most of the trails and lifts open. Powderhorn and Blackjack are also open. For those interested here's Indianhead's site, www.indianheadmtn.com.

Our current weather conditions remain excellent. Today and tomorrow should give us a break with some nice sunshine. Last night was cool again, with temps at zero. The weather guru's are starting to warm up the snow engines for another storm from Thursday into Saturday. While the exact track is uncertain, it is sounding like we will see some good snows. It also sounds like areas south of Wausau will see above freezing temps.(finally)

Well, time to go, and enjoy the brief sunshine. Get your bags packed. The north woods is ready for a great Christmas - News Years holiday season.

I'll be back Christmas Day for an update on our conditions and the storm.

As always, Drive and Ride Safely.

Rich

Manitowish Waters - 12/18/2009

2009-12-18T07:30:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Everyone,

Well, winter seems to have really settled in this year. While I know, at this time of year, we have had cold and snow, our current conditions seem to be alot more winter like than those of years in our more recent past.

SNOWMOBILING

The trails in the Manitowish Waters area are in "good" early season riding condition. Over the past few days there have been a number of riders, in our area, and throughout the north woods. As with all early traffic, heavy throttles can eat into the base, so watch the speed. I would still avoid lake riding, until we are sure the conditions are solid.

DOWNHILL SKIING

Conditions continue to improve in the UP's ski areas, as the continued cold has allowed for continual snow making. Indianhead Mtn is now reporting bases in the 42 inch range, with most of the area open, especially on the weekends.

Our current weather outlook looks very favorable, with continued below freezing temps, and chances for snow over each of the next 3 days(Fri-Sunday). Beyond the weekend, some of our weather experts are calling for another winter storm possibly developing over the Christmas period(25th - 26th).

It's time to get ready for the upcoming holiday period. This Christmas through New Years could see the north woods in really good winter conditions for all of our outdoor activities.

Hope to see you all soon.

As always, drive and ride safely.

Rich

Manitowish Waters - 12/15-16/2009

2009-12-15T08:56:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Everyone,

12/16/2009 - UPDATE - Trails officially open. Good early season conditions. Happy sledding!

12/15/2009 - Comments.

As each day, over the past 2+ weeks went by, it really looked like mother nature had set her course for the winter season. While last weeks snows really gave a good starting base for our snowmobile and skiing seasons, more recent snows on Sunday evening(4 inches), into Monday morning, then again during the day and evening yesterday(2 inches) really put down another nice covering in the north woods. With the snows and the continuing mid-winter like temps, we should be in a great position for the opening of snowmobile trails in Vilas county tomorrow, Dec. 16th.

SNOWMOBILING

As I mentioned last Saturday our trails in the Manitowish Waters area were packed last Friday. They also were packed/panned again yesterday, after this last snowfall. When we open tomorrow, our trail conditions should be in Good to Very Good early season riding condition. I would caution riders that although swamps may seem solid, it still is relatively early in the season, and to watch for soft and wet areas that could develop. As far as the lakes are concerned, avoid them, even though they may look solid and inviting.

Here's the areas opening schedule.

Michigan - OPEN
Iron County - Opened yesterday, Dec. 14th.
Vilas County - Opening tomorrow, December 16th.
Oneida County - Opening Thursday, December 17th.

So here we are, the 2009-2010 snowmobile season is at hand. It's been a number of years, since we have had these type of conditions before the holiday season. This upcoming weekend should be a great one.

DOWNHILL SKIING

This last weekend saw the opening of our downhill season in the UP. Snow conditions are reported as very good. Our local favorite, Indianhead Mtn, is reporting a base of 36 inches, and is making snow, daily.

If you can get away, before the holidays, our weather should be pretty good over the next 10 days. Our forecasted highs should vary in the low to mid 20's for the highs, and our nights in the mid to low single digits. After next next few sunny days, we should see some lake effect snows, as we get into the weekend.

It time to start planning for your holiday and weekend getaways. We have the conditions, that we have all been waiting for.

As always, Drive and Ride Safely.

Rich

Manitowish Waters - 12/12/09

2009-12-12T09:24:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Everyone,

So what's the news in Manitowish Waters area, you ask? Well it's official, we are in Winter. The storm that blew through here, this last Tuesday into Wednesday, gave us another 6-8+ inches to our prior snow levels. The good news is, we are ready to begin all of our outdoor winter activities. Along with the snow, we have had bitter cold nights, with temps 5 -10 degrees below zero, for the past few nights. It sure looks like the season is upon us, finally.

SNOWMOBILING

The snowmobile trails in the Manitowish Waters area were finally brushed this past week. Our Vilas county trail inspection, was moved out to the beginning days, of this next week. The entire Vilas county trail system, including Eagle River et al, is scheduled to open on this next Wednesday, the 16th.(Finally) For those interested, there has been a pretty good amount of "local" traffic in the past couple of days. Yesterday, Friday, our MW trail system was panned/packed. I would still be very cautious in the swampy areas, due to the late freeze, and would definitely avoid what look to be frozen lakes. Our cold and freezing conditions just need a bit more time, due to the late arrival of this years freeze up.
In the surrounding areas, Michigan has their trails open and running. Iron County, on the north side of our trail system, should be opening on Monday, the 14th.
It's time to get the sleds tuned up and ready, the season is here!

DOWNHILL SKIING

Our ski areas, just to our north, in the Wakefield area are all opening today. Powderhorn, Blackjack, and Indianhead Mtn, have all benefited from the recent storms and lake effect snows, as well as snow making abilities.
Indianhead Mtn, actually opened yesterday, and is reporting a base of 36 inches, with 12 trails open and 5 lifts running.

Over the next 2 days we should start seeing another storm in our forecast. Right now, Monday into Tuesday could give us another 3 - 4 inches, and be another welcome addition to our existing snowmobiling and skiing bases. Today and into tomorrow, we are even going to see a "thaw", into the low 20's. Yep, it's winter.

Well, it's time to start planing for the upcoming Christmas and New Years holidays. It looks like this year we will actually have all our winter activities running for a great holiday vacation period.

Our snowmobile trail reports will begin Tuesday. Stay tuned and get ready.

As always,

Drive and Ride Safely.

Rich

Manitowish Waters - 12/07/2009

2009-12-07T03:28:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Everyone,

It was just early last week, when it seemed like our weather was changing to more winter-like, and it sure did. Over the past few days, we were lucky to reach the low 20's for our highs, and our nights struggled for the teens.(Saturday night was just around zero). What started as a nice colorful dusting, last Monday, also seemed to build during the week, with our current ground totals around 3+ inches. The most surprising change, is our "seasons" changed in 6 or so days.

I have to chuckle this morning. Last week, I was hopeful for frost, some snow, and shore ice. Well, we are moving past that. Rest Lake is currently fully ice covered, as are other lakes and ponds. So this year it seems we moved from "Fall", right into January, well, weather wise.

As far as our winter activities are concerned. Downhill skiing opens on December 11th, at Indianhead Mtn. The snowmobiling season only needs a bit more cold, to freeze the swamps, and just a bit more snow for the trails, and it sounds like that should arrive this week. Speaking of this week, the weather forecasts are really pounding the drums for some good snow. Winter storm warning are currently issued for most of central and northern WI, although the exact track of this storm is still uncertain.

As far as our weather beyond Wednesday, the forecast is "cold". While we should see ample sunshine, into the weekend, it appears our highs will be in the mid teens, and our lows near the zero mark. Like I said, from "Fall" to January.

Well, it's time to get ready for those winter activities. Get the sleds ready, the skiis waxed and tuned, and the get the winter coats out of the closet. It's also time to start planning your winter vacations and trips.

I'll be back, after the storm, with an update. Hopefully, besides additional skiing openings and information, I'll have more information on our snowmobile trail openings.

Get the shovels out, and as always, Drive Safely.

Rich

Manitowish Waters - 12/01/2009

2009-12-01T08:50:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Everyone,

Well it's December. Wow. Where did this year go? There sure wasn't much of a summer for us to think back to. I guess our warm September, and early October made up for it. On the other hand, I think we were "shorted" this year.

So yesterday was "cyber Monday". For the north woods, it was more like "white Monday". As the calender was changing, so were our seasons. It looks like after a more than mild November, winter is finally arriving. While it was only an afternoon of snow flurries, we managed to paint the north woods in a color which seems to have been long overdue. Even our weather forecasters have seemed to put on a different "hat" the last few days. It looks like after today, and looking out the next 7-9 days, we may only see the freezing levels, for our highs, along with high teens for our lows. If one can believe the forecasts, they are calling for snow flurries, off and on, up until the weekend. Well, it's December, and it's time. Time for the frost, lake ice, and snow.
It won't be long, and we will be talking about snowmobiling, as well as skiing. Matter of fact, Indianhead Mtn., has fired up it's snow guns, and hopefully we are only a week or so out on the beginning of the downhill season.

The gun season for deer hunting has just ended. It seems our last weeks reporting of the decline in the hunt and deer herd, continued . The final numbers reported at Dietz's this year indicated we took only 131 deer this season. That is down from 259 deer, in 2008, and that is down from 375 deer, in 2007. The 2001 number was 688. I understand the peak was in 2000, at well over 700. While the decline in our deer herd has to be considered terrible, at best, it appears the "press", from Rhinelander to Eagle River indicated pretty severe declines also.

Well that's it for today. Let's hope our next season brings us the needed winter snows. Actually, lets hope we are the only ones that get snow, this year. It would sure be nice to see a flock of tourists, heading north to our portion of the mini-snow belt.

Trail reports, and ski condition reports will begin soon.

Have a good week.

Rich

Manitowish Waters - 11/25/2009

2009-11-25T08:15:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Everyone,

Well, here we are on the eve of the Thanksgiving Holiday. With the holiday only one day out, we will hopefully see a pick up in "life" in Manitowish Waters, over the next few days. Despite the opening of deer hunting last Saturday, the visibility of tourists and hunters has been pretty low, this year. So lets hear it, for the "rally" around the turkey, maybe it will be the beginning of our fall stimulus.

The weather in the north woods is continuing its very mild trend. After mother nature's early October scare, and winter preview, we really moderated for the past 6 weeks. The daily highs have been in the mid to upper 40's and the nights vary, but there are still no signs of frost in the ground, or ice on the lakes. While doing more fall cleanup, last weekend, I was even surprise to find a few ground worms still crawling around. I really don't remember too many(any) late November's like this, but then again, our weather will change, and the beginning may be starting in the next 2-3 days. We finally, may be getting some chances for snow from tonight into Friday. I guess that tells you how quiet it's been, when I start to get real ready for the next season to move in. Well, it's time!

As far as our fall hunting season, it has to considered surprising, and disappointing. Well, maybe not surprising. What hunters have come back to our area report "no", or very few deer sightings, at best. The complaints are loud, and the sound gunshots are almost non-existent. It's not that "bambi" is safe, "bambi" is not here. I checked out our local zone registration station this morning, Dietz's Service, and here are the total's after 4 days. Keep in mind, with the warmth this year, deer are being brought in and registered as soon as possible, and are not left freezing out at deer camp. For 2009, the 4 day total is 92 deer. That is down from 165 deer, in 2008, and that is down from 247 deer, in 2007. So much for being down a "slight" amount again, this year the 4 days is down 45%. If you really want to get a better feel for all the "noise" that I and other's have been talking about, that is the huge decline in our area's deer herd, all one needs to do, is look back to 2001, when our 4 day(same period) deer harvest was 485. Maybe 92 verses 165 or even verses 247, doesn't get the DNR's attention, but what about 92 verses 485. I don't need to be a wildlife biologist to figure this one out. Help!!

I really hope everyone has a nice Thanksgiving Holiday. If you are traveling, and especially venturing, in this direction, watch your road conditions. As I mentioned, we do have the chance for snow flurries. The warm roads, and cooling temps, could make driving a bit tricky.

Have a great weekend.

And, happy shopping.

Rich

Manitowish Waters - 11/17/2009

2009-11-17T10:09:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Everyone,

Well it's another beautiful day in the neighborhood. The pattern of nice weather which began 10 days ago, continues. Except for our morning temps in the 20's, one wouldn't guess this is mid-November, with the sunshine and mid 40's for afternoon temps. While there is some call for light rain on Thursday, and again early next week, our mild pattern should take us right into Thanksgiving. So much for the horse and sleigh early this year.

This upcoming weekend is the opening of the 2009 deer season. From the looks of things, there won't be much, any, tracking snow this year. But then again, that may not matter much, if all the reports of our declining deer herd are real. Talking with hunters, who hunted the Michigan opening(just 20 miles north of here) the past two days, finds the feedback, grim at best. The mornings were highlighted by the howling of wolves, and the sighting of a single doe.(So much for deer camp, this year) Unfortunately, I don't think we will be that much different, this upcoming weekend.

In past years, around this time, besides talking about the Manitowish Chain being down, I would be talking of the gradual forming of shore ice, and frost in the ground. I'll make it brief. No ice, no frost, yet.

Well, that's about it for today. Town's pretty quiet right now. Hopefully, with the deer opening, and then Thanksgiving holiday we will get a small pulse back in town. Otherwise, we may need the "crash cart".

Have a good week,

Rich

Manitowish Waters - 11/09/2009

2009-11-09T06:43:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Everyone,

I had intented to do a weekend update, but the weather was just to nice. That's right, the "Indian Summer" we have been all waiting for arrived last Friday, and has lasted, until now. Actually, if the forecasts pan out we should have another 3 or 4 really nice days. Who said we wouldn't have time for our fall projects this year..not me! Anyway it's been a great few days, and 4 more, at hand, before we will change again. To what, you ask? Who knows. Some of the current forecasts are calling for a relatively "mild" 2 weeks, before our next season arrives. But for now, we will just take it, day by day.

The one thing I have to admit, is it does seem strange with our warm up, and the deer hunting season is just around the corner. Michigan begins it's hunt on the 15th, and our Wisconsin deer season begins on the 21st. I noticed the DNR has finally admitted the deer harvest will be down this year, especially in areas like ours. It's too bad, they haven't talked to our local hunters, or done the field work, or they could have figured this out a few years ago. Everyone asks, what's the cause for the decline in the herd, and the reasons are probably many. Does it have to do with programs encouraging the shooting of too many Doe's, sure it does. But then again, the DNR still hasn't figured out, in over 20 years, that harvesting spawning fish, is bad practice, also. When one talks to the hunter's, the talk is over the predators. Yep, coyotes, wolves, wolves, and more wolves. So there you have it. I wish it was just that simple.

The Manitowish Waters Chain, is now at our off-season, low water levels. Four to Five weeks is all it takes to release the 4 plus feet of precious summer waters. I wish we could fill it as fast, but then again our winter snows, and spring and summer drought conditions haven't helped much over the past few years. Unfortunately, our Chain is not the only body of water being affected. Anyone driving to or from Minocqua, can really notice Diamond and Sparkling Lakes, on the west side of Hwy 51 are extremely low this year. Fisherman talk of similar problems at Ike Walton, and other area lakes. Let's hope for some fall rains, and heavy winter snows, to replenish our area ground water.

Our local grade school, North Lakeland, returned to school this past week, after being closed for 4 days, due to high number of "flu" related absenteeism's. While it looks like we were doing pretty good, this past week, other area schools saw the same problem last week and closed for a few days. Mercer, Bessemer, Ironwood, Hurley, and other schools in "da UP", saw the flu cycle hit. It seems the flu cycles through an area, and somewhat moves on.

Well, this should be a good week to finish outdoor projects. With our current forecasts, I may actually have to create a few, to justify enjoying the nice fall days.

Have a great week.

Rich

Manitowish Waters - 11/03/2009

2009-11-03T06:12:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Everyone,

Was it trick, or was it treat? As, far as the weather this past weekend, it definitely was "trick". All the early week forecasts for a nice weekend fizzled. There were other "tricks" at play, in other happenings, but I won't get into that on here. The bottom line is, it was a Halloween "trick", this year.
Today, well, it's a "new" day. The first part of November, yep November, it sure seems like we've missed something, this year. Here we are on a Tuesday, bright sunny skies, temps should be in the low 40's, and just a perfect day to be outside working on the remains of fall clean-up. Actually, if the forecasts play out this week, except for tomorrow, we should have great fall weather through this next weekend. If you can believe the forecasts, little or no rain chances, and temps in the mid and possible high 40's by Sunday. And this is November, oh well, we just need to take advantage of what we are given.

The water in the Manitowish Waters Chain, is now 3-4 inches from "low" water levels. I am not sure about the drawn down in past years, but it basically takes 30 some days to lower the "pond". The fishing, by the way, continues to be fairly active on the weekends. And those anglers who venture out are indicating pretty good activity. Most other lake related activities are over, although, I did see a few last boats being pulled for the season, this past week. (That's cutting it close.)

At this time of year, our population is now without our seasonal residents. Although we do see a pick-up of traffic on the weekends, as we move further in fall, those numbers also continue to decline. The next events we have to look forward to are hunting, snow, and the Christmas/New Years holiday. Hopefully, we will get the December snows, this year, and our winter skiing and snowmobiling trade will benefit.

One last note, for the first time I can remember, we are having an auction of lake property on Rest Lake, on Nov. 14th. These current economic times are hitting the northwoods, this time around, pretty good.

Well that's it for today,

Have a good rest of the week.

Rich

Manitowish Waters - 10/28/2009

2009-10-28T07:40:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Everyone,

It looks like the weather forecasts for our area are changing again. Yesterday's weather brought us mid 40's with sunshine. It looks like today should be the same, after our early morning fog burns off. This is just what we needed to work on our fall clean-up projects, before November's weather patterns set in. This upcoming weekend's forecasts are also calling for sunshine, with temps in the low to mid 40's. So, I guess this is it. Time to work on the fallen leaves, and get everything wrapped up for winter.

Our traffic patterns in MW have noticeably slowed since the majority fall leaf watching is now behind us. There still remains some fall fishing traffic, but that appears more confined to the weekends. So it seems, baring another movie, our slower period is at hand, until the hunting and Thanksgiving traffic arrives.

As far as news, on the local front. Our local school, North Lakeland Elementary, has been closed due to the high level of flu related absenteeism's. On Monday, the school had roughly 30% of the kids sick with the flu or flu like symptoms. School should reopen next Monday, Nov. 2nd. We aren't the only closing in the area, last week, Lac du Flambeau, was also closed for 3-4 days.

Well I missed yesterday's blog due to paperwork and fall clean-up, and I need to work on that again today. What's the old saying, "time to make hay while the sunshine's", is true here too.

Have a good, rest of the week.

Rich

Manitowish Waters - 10/24/2009

2009-10-24T06:14:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Everyone,

It shouldn't be a surprise to anyone that the "winter like" trends which have been teasing us, have continued. It seems as each week passes, in October, the weather takes more of a winter-like dip. Last night the patterned continued. This morning we awoke to a white covering on the grassy areas, tree limps, and most of the hard surfaces. The amounts vary, but 2-4 inches can be found on most of the grass areas, blacktop areas range from nil to 3 inches. There are even some spots, I found while shoveling, which look around 4-5 inches. As you can guess, this early snow is that old "wet" variety. I imagine, looking at the tree limbs, hanging, there are probably a few areas which have even seen there power flicker, and other areas which could have lost a line or two. Winter is arriving!
With last night behind us, we should be seeing partly sunny skies today, with temps approaching 40. Most of last night's inconvenience(snow) should disappear by later today. After today though, the forecasts are calling for clouds, more cooler temps, and rain, for the rest of the week.

The water levels in the Manitowish Waters Chain continue to drop. From the looks of things we are getting closer to winter levels. The water levels have not seemed to deter fall fishing, though. There continues to be fairly good traffic fishing traffic through the area, with good reports of fishing activity.

As far as other activities in town. This past Thursday evening, there was a town committee meeting to discuss the expansion of the existing MW area bike trail. I understand there were some pretty positive discussions and proposals for adding to our somewhat short and unconnected existing trail. It would be a great help to tie our trail into surrounding communities.

Well that's it for Saturday morning. Waiting for the sunshine and 40's to melt last night cover.

If anyone finds "Indian Summer", send it north!

Have a great day.

Rich

Manitowish Waters - 10/20/09

2009-10-20T07:43:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Everyone,

Well after 2 nice days, Sunday and Monday, it looks like we have moved back to our damp and cloudy fall weather pattern, again. Today's weather, as well as the forecasted patterns through Friday, are call for more of the rain, clouds and cooler weather which was around most of last week. Hopefully, the forecasts for clearing Saturday afternoon through Monday will give us some time to move forward with our fall cleanup.

Speaking of cleanup and leaves, in general, it still surprises me, on the amount of leaves still hanging. And just as surprising are the amount of leaves which are falling, which are still green. With the huge amount of acorns this year, and falling green leaves, I keep wondering what "mother nature's" winter forecast has in store for us.

The water levels in the Manitowish Waters chain continue to drop. I seems like we have lost another 3-4 inches, since last Saturday. The channel between Clear and Fawn Lakes is now down to 8 or so inches, and even the smaller fishing boats are needing to be pulled through.

This current week shouldn't yield much excitement in MW. Boat and piers are still being pulled. Yard work will grid to a halt, with the rains over the next 2-3 days. And cranberry harvest, should be all but wrapped up by the weekend. Even this coming weekend will see the annual season closing for Rita, at the Blue Bayou. So much for another season.

I hope everyone has a good week. If anyone finds "Indian Summer", send it north.

Have a great day,

Rich

Manitowish Waters - 10/17/09

2009-10-17T06:48:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Everyone,

Our fall weather patterns in the north woods have continued over the past week. There has been some sunshine, some clouds, some rain, and some threats of light snow. Most of the snow threats, never amounted to much, except for a few flakes, and an occasional white patch or two. It looks like this next week we should start to see some moderating temps, with highs over the few 3 days in the low 50's. Later next week will will again drop back to the 40's, with nighttime lows near freezing. All one can say is it's still fall!
Over the next 2-3 days we should have good sunshine. For those looking at "fall" colors, this could be getting near our peak, although there still remains enough "green" still hanging to possibly support another week and weekend of fall viewing.
The water levels in the Manitowish Chain continue to lower. My last check at Greer's Pier, this morning, looks like we are down close to 24 inches, from what was high water levels. For those interested, with the cooler water temps, fall fishing seems to be picking up. There seems to be a noticeable increased number of fisherman in the area over the past 2 weeks.
There is not allot of other news, on the local front. The typical slowing of fall tourists is underway. Cranberry harvest is beginning to wrap up. And our normal fall clean-up is just beginning.

Have a great weekend,

Rich

Manitowish Waters - 10/13/2009

2009-10-13T07:27:00.000-07:00

Good Brrrr Morning Everyone,

It shouldn't be a surprise, but yesterday we had a brief glimpse, again, of what's to come. There were clouds, there was wind, there was cold, and yes, there was snow. However, sitting here this morning, with crystal blue skies, abundant sunshine, and temperature's moving towards 40, causes one to think yesterday never happened, well, except for the remaining white, which covers grass and shaded areas. By this afternoon, we should be back to fall.

Most of the leaves and colors remain in the trees, but I am sure with the snow and cold, we could start seeing an acceleration of the leaves falling. On a positive front, it looks like our forecasters and calling for 40's for most of the rest of the week, with nights now near the freezing level. Hold on to your seats, we could even see the mid 50's this next Sunday. Then again this is still northern Wisconsin, and this is mid October, so the one constant is, "we will be surprised again".

I really don't think it is too late for a trip to the north woods, colors are still hanging on, and this weekend should have nice weather. Most would like to get a good start on the fall yard work, but too many needles and leaves are still "hanging". (Too bad we can bag then before they fall) My guess is it will be another 7-10 days before we can get to some serious fall raking and blowing.

Have a great day, until later this week.

Rich

Manitowish Waters - 10/10/2009

2009-10-10T08:17:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Everyone,

Our fall colors continue to expand. Early this morning old mother nature gave us a fresh new look to the fall reds, yellows, and oranges, with a layer of white. Yep, white! We may have seen a few flakes earlier this year, but today is our first real indication of our next season. While a dusting to a 1/4 inch, is all that currently remains, it sure shocked the senses. Even our weather forecasters got this one right, and now are calling for a "blustery" day ahead, with stiff northwest winds.
For those wondering about yard work, today is not the day you will be able to accomplish much. If your late in getting your boat out, well, good luck. Today is just down right windy and cold.

The water levels in the Manitowish Waters Chain continue to lower. From my last check, we are now down 8-10 inches, from the beginning of the fall lowering. We still have a long way to go, however, as I mentioned this week, those with shore stations better get the boats pushed off, soon.

For those still looking for fall colors, despite our dusting, which will melt quickly, our leaves still have good colors for those still interested. I am actually surprised by the amount of "green" remaining. Unfortunately, one never knows how fast changes could occur, especially with the next 4-5 nights of below freezing temps.

Here's a good one. One of our locals mentioned today, "we may as well just forget the Halloween decorations, and just go for the tree".

Well, that's all for this Saturday. Check back next Tuesday.

Have a great day

Rich

Manitowish Waters - 10/06/2009

2009-10-06T08:06:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Everyone,

Well, I guess I need to end my extended summer sabbatical. I am not really sure what started, caused, or why I took a break; except I did. Over the past few months, I have been really surprised by all the e-mail's and comments from those that have been regular readers. I guess what surprised me the most, is the number of you who are out there. Thank you for your patience and understanding.
So here we are, "I'm Back!" The bi-weekly comments of the "northwoods" are returning.

So what have we missed? Well, my first vote is "the summer." It sure seems like we really didn't have one this year. I guess we can just skip ahead to fall. We have had a beautiful fall, or at least most of September. From Labor day, for 20+ days, we had warm dry weather.(Maybe that was our summer).
Well, with October, we are really moving into our normal fall pattern. We have started seeing those "northwoods" fall rains, as of late. While today looks especially gloomy, we should have some nice days of sunshine, for the rest of the week. This upcoming weekend, is currently forecasted to be in the 40's, but with sunshine. I think I just forgot to mention the light rain or snow flurries chances for Friday evening though. But what's snow anyway? Just another color!
Speaking of color. Our fall color's are doing well. While there have been areas of good color this past week, my guess is we will be near or at the peak over this next weekend. There are still areas closer to Lake Superior, Hurley to Bayfield, where the color is even further behind.

The water levels on the Manitowish Chain are starting to lower. The levels, below the dam, are noticeably more active and higher. For those boat owners, who haven't pushed off the shore stations yet, it's time! As far as fall cleanup, we have started blowing needles and some leaves, but the majority of work is still a few weeks out.(There is still alot of leaves and color in the trees)

Well I better sign off, I don't want to over exert myself on the first day back. (Now I know how Brett felt)

Have a great day,

By the way, this should be a good weekend, for color and outdoor yardwork.

Rich

Manitowish Waters - 6/24/2009

2009-06-24T07:29:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Everyone,

I guess we must have gotten busy, as I just noticed the last update was on the 9th, 2 weeks ago. Well, things have really turned around in the northwoods. First, the weather seems to have gone from winter to summer, in these past 2 weeks. Our colder days have given way to the low 90's, yesterday and today. Our nights, have been humid, and relatively balmy, by northwoods standards, with lows in the high 60's. Summer has arrived.
For those wondering about our chain of lakes, water levels are basically at operating high levels, give or take 2 inches. Water temps really rebounded over the past 2 weeks. Temps on the 9th, were 57-59 degrees, and soared to 74-77, as of yesterday. Water sports have begun!
It's hard to believe the 4th of July is only 10 days out. Our "Grand Parade" will begin at 1pm this year. Like the past few years, activities in town will be focused at the community center, from 9am, until 4pm. The one significant change this year, is the fireworks will be held at the airport, following the 7:30pm ski show, at Rest Lake Park.
Well things are already heating up today, and I need to run. I'll have another pre-4th update over the weekend.

One last thing. For this upcoming weekend, the DNR has announced, they will have a program called "Operation Dry-Water". This will be a state wide program with Wardens and water patrols to limit drinking and boating.

Have a great day,

Rich

Manitowish Waters - 6/9/2009

2009-06-09T09:41:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Everyone,

Let's see if I remember how to do this.
Just when you thought the next season, "summer", was upon us, the weather took a turn back to spring time. The positive note, in our cool down, is that we were able to benefit from some light rains over the past 7 days. Our "greener" world sure looks allot better.
Our chain of lakes also has benefited from the rains and inflows, and we now find ourselves pretty close to full operating water levels. For those interested, our water remains a bit too cool for any active enjoyment. Waters temps, also took a reversal, and have retreated to 57-58 degrees. Not exactly the right direction, for June.
Lets look on the positive side. We just have had 2 cold weeks, and it's probably time to expect the next change. Two weeks from now, and we will have forgotten the cold spring, and cold water, and start our plans for all the great weekends and weekdays that come with our summer.

Hope to see you all soon. Join us in the north woods, before the mad rush is on.

Have a great day.

Rich.

p.s. Bring the bug spray!

Manitowish Waters - 6/2/2009

2009-06-02T09:12:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Everyone,

Well if you wondering where all the "hot" news has been, it hasn't been here. It seems like the cooler weather has been affecting everything, right down to the level of activity in town. Local activity has quieted back down to the pre-Memorial Day levels, for the time being.
Our chain of lakes has continued to slowly build towards summer levels. We are now around 8 inches shy of high water. The measurement at dam indicates 7'10 inches+/-. While we have only gained 2 inches this past week, our inflows have been better. We have unfortunately had cold nights, and our chains water is needed by some for freeze/frost control. Hopefully with warmer temps we could see a nice pick-up in the overall lake levels.
Water temps on the chain are still very cool, holding near the 60 degree mark. With these kind of water temps, it seems fishing is the only water related activity. We will have to wait for some good sunshine and warmer days to get the water back to the point of human enjoyment.
Well, wish I had more.

Have a good week.

Rich

Manitowish Waters - 5/27/2009

2009-05-27T06:18:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Everyone,

With Memorial Day now past, it's finally on to "summer". Yep, it's hard to believe, June is just around the corner, and it with it will be the full return to our busiest season. With last years slower fall, and long snowy, cold winter, it will be nice to see "life" return to our small town.
This past weekend saw good boating activity on our Chain. From Friday, into Monday, there was an active level of boating, although with water temps, around 61-62 degrees, actual "in water" fun was restrained somewhat. For those wondering about our Chains water levels, we are currently, at 7' 7" to 7'8", at the dam. We managed to only gain 4 inches this past week, as our inflows and rain have been lacking. We are however, way ahead of the Chain's levels of 2 years ago. With high water at 8'6", we still have plenty of time in June, to have great water(10 more inches) by the 4th of July.

Time to run. I will give you a weekend preview, early this Friday.

Have a great day.

Rich

Manitowish Waters - 5/19/2009

2009-05-19T08:38:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Everyone.

I guess first on my list today is the water level in the Chain. As of yesterday, we are at 7'4", at the dam. With high water at 8'6", and "operating levels" around 8'4", we are only 12 inches shy of good water levels. I understand our daily improvement varies by the day, some day's an inch, and other 1/2 to no improvement, all depending on water inflows, and water usage from the chain. Never the less, we are getting real close to good levels, considering the continued dryness this year.
Our local activity continues to improve daily. More summer residents continue to return to the area, after the long winter. Boat launching and pier work seems to be the picking up pace. While spring yard work, is mostly done, outdoor spring planting remains on the back burner. We have had just too many frost/freeze warnings to get the plants and vegetables into outdoor environment.
For those planning on a Memorial day weekend up north, the weather should be great.(Well, as forecasted today) Weekend temps should be in the mid to high 60's, with sunny or partly sunny skies. Bring your sweaters, nights still cool down pretty good.

I hope everyone enjoys the upcoming weekend. Join us in the north woods.

Rich

Manitowish Waters - 5/14/2009

2009-05-14T08:58:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Everyone,

I thought I'd give you a brief update on our waters levels in the chain. As of this morning, our lake levels, at the dam, stand at 7' 2". Our high water mark is 8' 6", which brings us to 14 inches below high water. Not to bad of an improvement, since last Sunday.
As I mentioned last time, this weekend is the 5th Annual Birding Festival, at the North Lakeland Discovery Center. Also, with our water levels improving, it looks like more people are getting their boats back into the water. This could turn out to be a "cool", but busier weekend in the north.

Don't forget to start making your summer plans.

Have good day,

Rich

Manitowish Waters - 5/12/2009

2009-05-12T06:37:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Everyone,

So you ask, "what's new"? The answer is, not much. It's just a slow spring, building up to summer. Our local activity has been improving, as more of our summer residents make their way back north. But, in general, it just feels like a slower year, at least right now.
Speaking of slow, the water level in the chain is 19-20 inches below the high water mark. Our daily rise has slowed from and inch a day, to around 1/2 and inch. More rain is badly needed, not just for bringing the chain back up, but also, for easing the dry conditions which exist in the woods, and yards.
This upcoming weekend features the 5th Annual Birding Festival at the North Lakeland Discovery Center. Over the years, the festival has been able to build a good following of local interest, as well as those who travel from other parts of the state.
On the weather front, daytime temps are slowing moving back into the mid to high 60's, however, our nights have continued to hit the near freezing mark, causing some frosty roofs in the early mornings. Hopefully we should see some much needed rain, in the next 2 days.

Time to run, spring cleaning is underway.

Have a great day.

Rich