As part of the geotechnical study of Cummings Dam a number of core samples are being taken at various points around the dam. In this photo the core samples show that at 69 feet a layer of coal was encountered. The coal seam lies underneath and around the perimeter of the lake and was never mined. The seam is about 4 feet in thickness.
One of our local Mennonite stores has gotten into the spirit of promoting the Hoodlebug Trail in a unique way. The mix contains a variety of nuts, pretzels, jelly beans and marshmallows. No word on how many calories each serving contains.
We don't see as many turtles in our parks as we wish but this Midland Painted turtle was out for a stroll on a sunny day. From the number of scraps and marks on its shell we would say this turtle has been around for awhile. Turtles can live for many years but their biggest threat is from traveling across highways during their breeding seasons. If you see a turtle and it is safe to stop - stop and move them off the road in the same direction they are headed.
