Hike a Wintry Woods
Let Jack Frost nip your nose at the Boulder Lake Environmental Learning Center this winter.
December 2, 10am - 3pm: Boulder Holiday Tree Cut
Location: 7328 Boulder Dam Rd, Duluth, MN 55803 Registration is not required. There is a nominal fee for each tree cut.
The public is invited to cut Balsam Firs to take home for the holidays on December 2, from 10 am-3 pm at 7328 Boulder Dam Rd, in Duluth. You can enjoy free homemade cookies, hot cocoa, and a bonfire and at the same time, know that you are helping manage the forest.
Follow the signs to Boulder Lake and when you arrive at the trailhead, volunteer guides will point out different tree species and explain about how tree cutting thins out some tree types to create a healthier woods. All trees cut that day are Balsam Fir, and there’s an important reason behind that choice.
When they grow tall, Balsam Fir can cause problems. "Balsam can become a “ladder fuel” during a fire," says Ryan Hueffmeier, Boulder Lake director. "They are a shade tolerant species that grow in the understory of Red an White Pines and if they catch fire they help the fire reach the overstory canopy."
Start with a Wreath
December 6 and December 13, 6pm - 8pm: Wreath Making at Glensheen
Location: Glensheen Mansion, 3300 London Road, Duluth, MN Registration: Required.
Boulder Lake is also selling wreaths that have been harvested from Boulder 18,000 acre outdoor classroom.
The harvest of the Balsam fir boughs is a forest management technique for fire management.
Thinning out the Balsam is just one piece of Boulder Lake’s management strategy," said Trevor Struve, a UMD junior Environmental Education major. Trevor is one of the student volunteers who is helping visitors at the wreath making event. UMD students and staff work in coordination with Boulder Lake.
UMD supports the center along with Minnesota Power and St. Louis County Land & Minerals Department.
CONTACT THE BOULDER LAKE LEARNING CENTER
7328 Boulder Dam Road Duluth, MN 55803
[email protected], 218-721-3731
Boulder Lake Environmental Learning Center Site
Boulder Lake Environmental Learning Center FB page