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Observing Nature in Winter

It looks like winter has settled in for the long haul. No doubt many among us have been enjoying nature and the outdoors through hunting or fishing. With the big white blanket spread across the landscape, it is also a good time to enjoy a bit of nature. Maybe this will be a good winter for enjoying the natural world along with the winter snow. 

Many of us are active for much of the year. But for many among us, however, winter it is a time of getting a little too familiar with the couch or easy chair. We tend to stay indoors, do a little more carbo loading than necessary, and avoid the bathroom scale for a while. But in addition to hunting and fishing, winter can be a great time to get outdoors, get some exercise, and enjoy nature. We just need a little nudge occasionally. So consider yourself nudged.

Depending upon the weather and of course local snow conditions, cross country skiing or snowshoeing can be a great way to have some fun, get a little exercise, and make some interesting observations of nature during the winter. Most everyone lives near some good places to go, including city, country, or state parks. Plus some of these parks (and other entities) rent equipment for a modest price.

If that is not to your liking, consider bundling up and just going for a walk in a natural area. In addition to the parks, most of us have other natural areas nearby. Plus North Dakota has several National Wildlife Refuges that are generally open to the public. Do check, however, for any regulations.

Winter often suffers from a bad reputation. But it is not deserved. Most of us can get out and enjoy the season in some way shape or form and at the same time enjoy the natural world and become a little more knowledgeable about it. And of course, enjoying nature in winter from the comfort of your car is also an option. Go for a drive if that is your choice. Better yet, take someone along that perhaps may not have many opportunities to do so. And while you’re out there take the time to savor nature in its winter finery. You’ll like what you see. Assuming the temperatures and snow will cooperate, it’s like that old television commercial used to say: “It just doesn’t get any better!”

~Chuck Lura

Prairie Public Broadcasting provides quality radio, television, and public media services that educate, involve, and inspire the people of the prairie region.
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