Windy end of winter, snowy start to spring

As winter approached its end, we received a wicked batch of wind, with several conifer casualties, an unsurprising result for the weak, shallow-rooted trees like white pine and balsam fir.

On the first day of spring, we received 2 new inches of snow. We might get four or more tonight through early Monday. Snow makes the forest really look pretty, but we've had more than seven feet this season. Time for a prolonged thaw!

Freeze, thaw, repeat

March can be the big rollercoaster month. On Tuesday, the most beautiful day of the year so far, we had full sun and a high of 67. Then we had two new inches of snow yesterday, including a major afternoon squall. Today's low:  21 degrees. Monday's forecast: Windy, rainy, 50+ degrees, followed by another round of cold air. 

During Tuesday's warm spell, both saws came out for a test start. They passed with flying colors. Soon, they'll be working hard.

A nearby paper birch grove also seems ready for spring.