5/16/2020 Black River Falls to Irving
- A last minute decision saved us from making a big mistake—staying home. Weather forecast kept improving and we finally found the right station to tell us that is was going to be a beautiful day, and it was. The weather was sunny and 72° with the water temperature up only slightly from 2 weeks ago to a brisk 59°. We missed last week due to Mother’s Day (weather was terrible anyway, but a good excuse), so today was trip; COVID-4. Our paddlers for the day included; Tom Hundt, Steve Dunn, Bill and Teresa Peters and me. Our trip today was 12.7 miles from the City of Black River Falls, just below the dam, to the booming metropolis of Irving—home of the John Deere museum. We accomplished this feat in 3 hours and 40 minutes including over 50 minutes of breaks. Our average speed was reduced due to the very calm waters to 3.6 mph, but we did have some head winds up to 12 miles per hour—subject to dispute—I think they were stronger. Our water depth was at 4.3 feet, it continues to drop and there is a lot of sand in the Black River so need to watch the water levels if they drop below 3.6 or so?
Today was another Eagle extravaganza, we had so many Eagle sighting, at least over 50, some may have been repeats, but none the less they are still beautiful to see and watch as they fly. They were really grouped up with as many as 5 sighting at a time, and many were in pairs. I captured some pictures and video, but the camera never does this bird any justice.
We also had an extremely rare occurrence, a “Sun Halo” also known as a “22 Degree Halo”. A rainbow that completely encircles the sun. I have never seen one. Only comment for the day is “it doesn’t get any better”
This week’s music was selected by Teresa, she felt that Louis Armstrong would fit the mood, so relax and enjoy.
To watch the video click the arrow and then enlarge the screen with the icon in the lower right of the screen. To get back to this page just shrink the page back to normal.
When viewing the still pictures below, click on them and they will also enlarge and then move through the selection with the arrow on your computer. Enjoy!!