ozarks outdoors summer 2014
DESCRIPTION
Get up. Get out. Get going.TRANSCRIPT
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Get up. Get out. Get going.
FREE SUMMER 2014
GET OUT OF THE
KITCHEN
IF YOU CAN’T TAKE THE HEAT,
PAGE
18
BACK TO BUSHCRAFT
BASICSPAGE 6
STATE PARKS OF THE OZARKS:
LOST VALLEYPAGE 11
ROAD TRIPPING WITH THE
ROADRUNNERPAGE 16
COMMIT TO GOODHYDRATION HABITS
PAGE 23
OFF THE BEATEN PATH
An outer-Ozarks experience on
Snake RoadPAGE 24
FERAL PIGS ON THE RISE
PAGE 28
RUN BIKE SWIMSprint triathlons
PAGE 31
KITCH5 steps to the perfect s’more experience
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What’s standing between you and better health? Find the doctor who’s right for you.
{Your best care}Cox Monett Hospital417/269-INFO or 1-888-818-5239 (toll-free)coxhealth.com
PROUDLY CARING FOR OURCOMMUNITY SINCE 1928.
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outdoorsGet up. Get out. Get going.
To advertise: 417-847-2610 - Cassville417-235-3135 - Monett870-423-6636 - Berryville479-253-0070 - Eureka Springs
Send e-mail inquiries to [email protected]
Mailing address: P.O. Box 40, Monett, MO 65708
Ozarks Outdoors is published and distributed free in Southwest Missouri and Northwest Arkansas. Ozarks Outdoors is a publication of the Cassville Democrat, The Monett Times, the Lovely County Citizen, Carroll County News and Rust Communications.
SUMMER 2014
EDITORJoshua [email protected]
ART DIRECTOR Veronica [email protected]
ADVERTISING Sheila HarrisMarion ChryslerJim SextonDiane Newcomb
CONTRIBUTORSSheila HarrisMark ConnerJennifer ConnerRichard ReedLayne SleethSherry TuckerGreg Gilmore
PHOTOGRAPHERS Charles Henry Ford IIChuck NickleKerry HaysJeff Terry
INSIDE
On the cover:Sherry Tucker and Rob Lotufo are cooking up a delicious campfi re dish with
summer and Italian sausages, a variety of peppers, potatoes and onions. This dinner skillet recipe, along with Sherry’s introductory feature, can be read on
page 18. PHOTO BY SHERRY TUCKER
6 BACK TO BUSHCRAFT BASICS
11 LOST VALLEY 16 ROAD TRIPPING WITH THE ROADRUNNER
18 IF YOU CAN’T TAKE THE HEAT, GET OUT OF THE KITCHEN
23 COMMIT TO GOOD HYDRATION HABITS
24 OFF THE BEATEN PATH Snake Road
28 FERAL PIGS ON THE RISE
31 RUN BIKE SWIM Sprint triathlonsWhat’s standing between you and better health? Find the doctor who’s right for you.
{Your best care}Cox Monett Hospital417/269-INFO or 1-888-818-5239 (toll-free)coxhealth.com
PROUDLY CARING FOR OURCOMMUNITY SINCE 1928.
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FROM THE EDITOR:
SUMMER, WE FINALLY MADE IT. MANY OF US have trudged through snow and waded torrential downpours to arrive at last to summer.
For many, the warm weather is reason enough to try something new. For some it’s a chance to get out and shed some extra pounds we stockpiled during winter. For others, it’s a chance to try some extreme sport they have been reading about for the last two seasons.
This summer season will also see some changes within Ozarks Outdoors. I will be stepping down as editor. Sherry Tucker, current editor for Connection magazine, will be taking the helm as editor, beginning with the fall edition. Her article on campfi re cooking can be found in this issue.
The decision to leave was not made lightly, as I truly enjoy this magazine. Ozarks Outdoors combines two things I am extremely passionate about; photojournalism and the outdoors.
It is with a certain degree of sadness that I stepped down. This summer has seen me graduate from college and hoping to make my mark on the world. My reasons for leaving are twofold.
First, many of the opportunities I am pursuing would be in a direct confl ict of interest with my current position. I am an outdoorsman, so I am hoping to continue to combine
photojournalism and the outdoors wherever I may end up. Secondly, I don’t know where my career will take me.
While I may stay here in the Ozarks, I could end up far away and unable to continue my role as editor.
Despite my absence, Ozarks Outdoors will continue to bring you wonderful outdoor photography, along with entertaining and informative articles.
There are so many amazing people I would like to thank for making my time here enjoyable. That said, I know if I start listing everyone, I will forget someone and bore you. However, two groups of people have to be recognized.
The staff of Ozarks Outdoors has been wonderful to work with. From the writers to photographers and the designer, you have all made this publication what it is.
Of course, this magazine would be nothing if not for the readers. Knowing that you guys and gals are out there enjoying what we do makes it all worth it. Additionally, your feedback and comments have shown us what you like and do not like and how we can improve. I hope you continue to be active readers in the coming issues.
Again, thank you everyone and to Ozarks Outdoors for giving me a chance to be part of something wonderful.
God bless, Joshua Boley
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BACK IN THE WOODS OF northwest Arkansas lives a bearded man who in many ways has more in
common with America’s fi rst pioneers and settlers than a man from this century. Jerry Ward is the owner and instructor of Ozark Mountain Preparedness, LLC, located in Berryville, Ark. “We teach everything from how to light a fi re to how to walk out in the middle of the woods from your truck and never come back.” Jerry said. “All the skill to say survive a mishap on a day hike where you take the wrong trail and get lost, all the way up to saying goodbye to society and living in the Yukon.” Jerry offers courses year round and limits his class size to only eight students. According to Jerry, the smaller sizes are safer because he is able to keep an eye on everyone and it allows students more one-on-one instruction. Even if a student has never taken a survival or bushcraft course before, Jerry says they are welcome to take courses from him.
Back to
bushcraft basics
S TO R Y A N D P H OTO S B Y J O S H UA B O L E Y
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“I have had people who have literally never lit a match show up to courses,” Jerry said. “I have also had those who have been doing it for years and just want to learn the Ozarks or a different perspective.” The physicality of the course depends on the skills being taught. Most of Jerry’s courses include short hikes; however, constructing a debris shelter can be more labor intensive. Jerry said the most physical
course he offers would be the physical courses he offers are those on fur trapping because students will be carrying 50 to 60 pounds of gear up and down creek beds. Jerry said that the fur trapping courses are something that he is proud of and has not seen before with other survival or bushcraft schools. “I have been a professional fur trapper myself for 11 years, and I love teaching how
to trap,” Jerry said. “It is one of those lost arts and traditional skills that helped found this country. While Jerry doesn’t really like the word bushcraft because it has been over used in the industry, he similarly uses it when describing his own courses because it such a buzz word. Jerry said the biggest difference between survival and bushcraft skills is their intended uses. 8
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“[S]urvival means there has been some kind of event, something tragic has happened and it has turned into a survival situation,” Jerry said. “When you think of bushcraft or wilderness living skills, the implication is that it was intentional.” The fl ood of reality survival shows on television is a double-edged sword, according to Jerry. On the one hand, the shows bring awareness to the need for some basic skills. Conversely, the shows also put out a lot of misinformation. “There are a lot of television programs that portray things as being easier than they and/or more dramatic than they are.” Jerry said. “It seems like the bulk of the shows don’t show you how diffi cult it is to obtain water in the fi eld.” Jerry said even in the desert it seems like the hosts always seem to have a route that leads them to water. While Jerry agrees if planning a route through the desert, or anywhere, your path should lead toward water; but the shows are shown with the idea of a mishap with no prior planning. While Ozark Mountain Preparedness, LLC, has only been operating for three years, Jerry has been interested and practicing bushcraft skills all his life. “Growing up I would spend every moment I could out in the woods,” Jerry said. Jerry said even in college while others were going to the beach for spring break, he and his friends would pick out a trail and spend the entire week in the woods. Eventually, Jerry found that he spent more time practicing and honing his skills than just backpacking and hiking. “I wanted to learn more about the really hands-on bushcrafty ways of doing things,” Jerry said. “Where you are not relying on a huge pack full of gear, you are relying on a few trinkets, doo–dads and tools and what nature can provide.” When asked what the most crucial piece of gear is, Jerry replied, “fi rst and foremost would be a good fi xed-blade knife.” However, he said he could recommend a brand or size for most that is personal preference. After the knife, Jerry recommended a good way, three in fact, sources of making fi re should be carried every time a person goes into the woods. Finally, a way to purify water rounded out Jerry’s top three
essential pieces of gear for bushcraft and survival needs. These days, Jerry said he sees more and more people getting hung up on the gear and worrying less about the skills. He said people feel inadequate unless they have this guy’s knife or that guy’s bow or sleeping bag, etc. “I would just admonish people to step back for a minute and realize why you came out here in the fi rst place,” Jerry said. “You
came out here to get away from that and society pressure and labels.” Ozark Mountain Preparedness, LLC, has a full schedule online at www.otterpaw.com and offers a multitude of topics with classes ranging from one day to one week. Custom courses are also available and can be tailored to fi t the student’s needs. Jerry Ward can be reached via email at [email protected] or by phone at 870-350-6995.
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ABOVE, A GOOD FIXED BLADE
KNIFE IS AN ESSENTIAL PIECE
OF GEAR. JERRY USED A
LARGE KNIFE AND TREE LIMB
TO BATON THROUGH A LOG.
JERRY WARD, OWNER AND INSTRUCTOR OF
OZARK MOUNTAIN PREPAREDNESS, LLC.
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PICTURE YOURSELF STEPPING into a subterranean glittering world of echoes, fresh springs, and eroded
limestone tunnels. In the Ozarks, caves are a common feature of the landscape. These underground passages are the final frontier of the natural world and are about as off-the-grid as you can go these days. Satellite imagery has yet to peer into the depths of this hidden world. All of this just adds to the allure of cave exploration. Caving isn’t a recreation for the faint of heart; however, the thrill of discovery can be rewarding if you don’t mind the physical challenge of traversing tight spaces, utter darkness, and wet conditions. Aside from being the favored habitat of Sméagol (pardon my nerdy Lord of the Rings joke), caves host a fascinating array of small creatures. The Buffalo National River area is brimming over with things to do and see, but if you’re wanting to get a taste of caving Lost Valley is the place to go! In May, my cave-loving husband, Brian, and I went to check out the popular Eden Falls Cave in Lost Valley State
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When it comes to shoes or boots for caving there
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RECOMMENDED COOL STUFF FOR NOVICE CAVING
Park where we stopped to admire every camelback cricket and bat we came across. Eden Falls Cave is one of a select few caves that remain open for recreational caving in the area in the wake of white-nose syndrome, a disease that has killed millions of North American bats since 2006. Just over two miles round trip, Lost Valley trail provides a stunning variety of natural structures. Clark Creek flows for three miles along the trail, disappearing and reappearing out of holes in the limestone bedrock. The level trail weaves for a mile through American beech giants and huge natural bluff formations then steeply
THIS HACKBERRY EMPEROR
BUTTERFLY TAKES A REST ON
A BOULDER NEAR
EDEN FALLS.
A TEETERING VIEW
OF THE TOP OF THE
FALLS FROM INSIDE
THE MOUTH OF
EDEN FALLS CAVE
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First aid kitULTIMATE SURVIVAL TECHNOLOGIES
CORE 1.0 FIRST AID KIT
As a spelunker you will need a fi rst aid
kit that is light small and light weight
and the CORE 1.0 is just that. The
internal components are packaged in
a waterproof, resalable, bag perfect
for moist environments. The CORE1.0
includes 49 items ranging from bandages
and Moleskin to tweezers and safety pins
all for about $18.
www.reveresupply.com
Knee pads and elbow pads are a good idea EXPEDITION ESSENTIALS EXTREME
ARM AND LEG GUARDS
Sooner or later while caving you will fi nd yourself
digging with your knees and elbows to either explore
further, or try to get yourself unstuck. Without
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A helmet to prevent head injuries wouldn’t be a bad idea eitherBLACK DIAMOND HALF DOME HELMET
If you are going to go through the trouble of
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ascends to the mouth of Eden Falls Cave, where Eden Falls, a series of four waterfalls, plummets 170 feet down. Eden Falls Cave is fairly beginner-friendly, but does require some tight squeezing for about 200 feet back. If you stay to the right, you can stand up all the way back, but if you veer to the left you will have to crawl. In the back the cave opens up to a circular room where a 35-foot waterfall splashes down into a pool of 52 degree water. The whole cavern is filled with cool spray and mist from the waterfall.
hiking trails in the Buffalo River area, and for good reason. The trail is gorgeous at any time of the year, and takes only a couple of hours to hike. There is even a lower trail with wheelchair access, and benches are located intermittently along the main trail. Unfortunately, camping is no longer available, as the park is prone to flash flooding damage. To get to Lost Valley from Ponca, Ark., take Highway 43 south about 1.5 miles where you will see a paved road off to the right marked with a Lost Valley sign. Take this road about a 1/2 mile to the parking area and trailhead.
SQUEEZING THROUGH A
TUNNEL IN EDEN FALLS CAVE
A TINY TRI-COLORED BAT
SNOOZING IN THE NOISY
WATERFALL ROOM
Once back outside the cave, take the steep stone steps down to the pool at the base of Eden Falls, and you’ll quickly find yourself meandering toward the adjacent Cob Cave. The bluff got its name for corn cobs left by prehistoric Native Americans. When I found out this snippet of information, I quickly regretted not packing some corn along with our trail snacks to pay tribute in Cob Cave. Nevertheless, the massive shelter protected us from a sudden afternoon downpour for which we were grateful. Located in the small town of Kingston, Ark., Lost Valley is one of the most popular
Caving can be dangerous, especially for unprepared beginners. Experts
recommend going with a group and never alone. Even though Eden Falls Cave is a
relatively small and easy cave to explore, it still has its hazards so use caution.
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BY JOSHUA BOLEY
ROAD TRIPPINGWITH THEROADRUNNER
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I HAVE TO ADMIT, DESPITE GROWING up in southwest Missouri and being an outdoors kind of guy, I don’t think I had
ever seen a roadrunner except on Saturday morning cartoons growing up. That changed during an outing last week with my mother and daughter.
bounced off into the field. Later, I would find out via the Missouri Department of Conservation website that the little roadrunner is actually called the greater roadrunner. Also, according to their website, the bird is found only in the Ozarks and most commonly in the southwestern counties. The greater roadrunner is about 23 inches from bill to tail and is listed as a species of conservation concern by the MDC. I can’t believe it took till my late 30s to finally see one of these amazing birds in the wild. While I’m happy I finally got to see one and capture it with my lens, I have to admit I was disappointed it was not being chased by Wile E. Coyote.
My daughter was the first to spot it on the cattle guard. Pointing from the backseat I hear the word, “roadrunner.” Sure enough, just sitting there on the round pipe, was a roadrunner. Slowly, my daughter handed me my camera. I began taking photos at first through the windshield, to ensure I would at least have one photo. Cautiously, I opened the door and leaned out – all the while clicking away. I inched my way closer trying not to scare the bird off. Before I knew it, I was a mere five feet away. I couldn’t believe the little bird just hopped from one pipe to another seeming not to really care if I was there or not. Apparently, four and half feet was close enough and the roadrunner
The three of us decided to go backroading, just to get out of the house. After several hours of meandering through Shell Knob and down into Arkansas, we found ourselves in Butler Hollow. If you have never been, Butler Hollow is a great place to slowly drive through with a camera and grab a few photos of wildlife and nature. This particular day, as we made our way down the dirt road, we came to a spot where the road had been washed out. Much to our disappointment, we had to turn around and drive all the way back the way we came. However, this turn of events would allow me to spot a bird, which had eluded me for so long.
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LONG SUMMER EVENINGS are even better if it means sitting around a
campfire, enjoying conversation and good food with friends. Whether you are camping at a local campground, spending the evening by the lake, in your backyard, or hiking and staking a tent in the wilderness for the night, a good meal that is easy to prepare over the hot coals can’t be beat. I’m am, by no means, an expert campfire cook, but I have put together a few tasty meals that are fairly easy to assemble and hard to mess up. Just be sure to be careful around an open fire. Never lean over a fire, and never allow loose clothing to hang over a fire. It’s best to cook over the coals of a fire that has died down. With a poker, pull some coals out, away from the burning wood, and set up a fairly level area for the pan to set over the coals. A bed of coals has a more developed, consistent temperature that is better as a cooking surface for your pan.
If you can’t take the heat, OUTDOOR COOKING SPICES UP THE CAMPING EXPERIENCE
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It’s really important to use heavy cooking equipment that won’t warp or burn, and won’t discolor from the harsh environment. The best I can suggest is a cast iron skillet or dutch oven. They perform well, whether they are needed to sear a steak on red hot coals, or
simmer a soup for several hours. It’s very important to have hot pads, or even better, a Kevlar mitt to pick up or move a hot skillet or pan. Metal hooks are handy, too, for picking up Dutch ovens and adjusting coals underneath. An iron skillet is great for
frying some freshly-caught fish, or even some hot-dogs or hamburgers for lunch if you don’t have a grill. For breakfast it’s also great for bacon or fried eggs, or flapjacks as well. Adjusting the heat is the most challenging part, but with some practice, it gets easier.
If you can’t take the heat, OUTDOOR COOKING SPICES UP THE CAMPING EXPERIENCE
Try this dinner skillet or campout beans for an all-in-one meal.
1 pound summer sausage or kielbasa cut into 1” chunks1/2 –1 pound bulk Italian sausage2 sweet bell peppers (any color), cleaned and sliced1 large onion, sliced4 large red potatoes, scrubbed and slicedSalt and pepper (or seasoned salt) to taste
Place Dutch oven, or large (15”) skillet over a bed of coals. When hot, add sausages and stir and cook till browned. With spatula, scoot meat to one side and add enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan. Add potatoes. Stir and cook till tender (probably 15 minutes). Add pepper and onion and cook till done. Using spatula, gently stir meat, potatoes, onion and pepper together and cook till all are done and browned. Season to taste. Remove from heat and serve warm. Summer squash and mushrooms can be added with the peppers and onions as well.
DINNER SKILLET
S TO R Y A N D P H OTO S B Y S H E R R Y T U C K E R
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1/2 pound bacon1/2 pound ground beef1/3 cup brown sugar1/3 cup white sugar1/4 cup catsup1/2 cup barbecue sauce2 Tbsp. sorghum3 Tbsp. mustard1/2 tsp. chili powder1/4 tsp. pepper2 cans each, pork and beans, Lima beans, pinto beans, and red beans
CAMPOUTBEANS
Cut bacon into 1” sections and brown together with hamburger in dutch oven over hot coals. Spoon off extra grease and add beans and all ingredients. Cover with lid and simmer over coals for at least 2 hours. Serve warm.
S’MORES ARE THE SHINING STAR OF CAMPFIRE SCENE. Gooey, toasted marshmallow nestled between graham crackers and melted chocolate – what can be better? Of course, how the perfect s’more is created is very subjective. I have seen those who unapologetically burn their marshmallow beyond recognition, and connoisseurs who patiently create the perfect bronzed marshmallow to complement their dessert. There is no right way or wrong way, so be confident in your method no matter how it develops. Here are five easy steps to help you build a tasty s’more, guaranteed to leave you with sticky fingers and a sugar rush. Be sure to participate in the annual s’more day, which is celebrated on August 10!
1Be sure to have all supplies on hand. You will need graham crackers, milk chocolate bars (that are sectioned into four rectangles (such as Hershey’s milk chocolate bar), and large marshmallows. Each s’more takes one graham
cracker broken in half, one or two marshmallows, and ¼ of a chocolate bar.
2Prepare a clean area to set up a s’more assembly line. This is sometimes difficult when camping, so think creatively. An extra lawn chair, a truck tailgate,
or beach towel laid over the ground will work.
3Before roasting the marshmallow, prepare the cracker by breaking it in half, and laying a rectangle of chocolate on one side.
4Stick a marshmallow (or two) on a metal roasting stick or sharpened stick (at least 3 feet long) and roast marshmallow over an open
wood fire (never roast food over anything except a wood fire, anything else can emit toxins and taint the food being cooked). Roast as desired. I prefer to roast mine slow, maybe slightly charred, but held over the coals long enough to heat the marshmallow enough so that it will squish between the crackers and melt the chocolate bar.
5Sandwich the roasted marshmallow between the crackers and chocolate. It is easiest if you have a friend who can hold the crackers around the marshmallow, while the stick is pulled out.
Eat and enjoy.
Once the initial concept is established, you can get creative! Use chocolate chip cookies instead of graham crackers, use a Reese’s peanut butter cup instead of milk chocolate or add slices of your favorite
fruit.
5 STEPS TO THE PERFECT S’MORE EXPERIENCE
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Once the initial concept is established, you can get creative! Use chocolate chip cookies instead of graham crackers, use a Reese’s peanut butter cup instead of milk chocolate or add slices of your favorite
fruit.
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PLEASE TAKE A MOMENT AND indulge me, I promise there is a method to my (supposed) madness!
The weather is hot and it makes me think back to the days when I was a kid and we craved the most “summertime” of drinks—Kool-Aid. Everyone has in their mind (and their taste buds) what “perfect” Kool-Aid tastes like; the perfect mixture of sugar, water, temperature and fl avor (my favorite fl avor is grape if you were wondering). All of these aspects combine to make your Kool-Aid the perfect drink. Any deviation from the correct amounts of additives makes it too sugary or too watery or just not right. Now, for a minute let’s pretend that your Kool-Aid isn’t Kool-Aid; instead
let’s have your “perfect” drink represent your blood and cardiovascular system. For each of us there is an optimal level—volume, electrolyte content, body system temperature, etc. Maintaining an optimal level can be diffi cult when you are active, and when it is hot it can be even more diffi cult. Unless you are used to the heat, or acclimatized, you sweat out more electrolytes (mainly salt) causing your “Koo-Aid” to change. This change can have very bad effects on your body, varying from decreased performance, to cramping, to heat exhaustion and/or heat stroke or even death. Drinking is obviously paramount (however, the EMTs will be happy to give you an IV). So, what you drink is potentially an issue.
COMMIT TO GOOD
HYDRATION HABITSB Y G R E G G I L M O R E
GREG GILMORE IS A CERTIFIED ATHLETIC TRAINER AND
ATHLETIC TRAINING SERVICES COORDINATOR AT COX MONETT
REHAB AND SPORTS MEDICINE. THE BUSY FATHER OF FOUR HAS
WORKED FOR COXHEALTH FOR SIX YEARS. IN HIS SPARE TIME,
HE ENJOYS SPENDING TIME AT HIS KIDS’ ACTIVITIES AND BEING
INVOLVED IN MANY DIFFERENT OUTDOOR PURSUITS.
STAY HYDRATED. If you don’t know what that means, just look at your urine—it should be clear or very light yellow that isn’t stinky.
KEEP HYDRATED with water or sports drinks with little salt added.
REHYDRATE, rehydrate, rehydrate!
CUT BACK if you start to cramp or feel ill.
CUT OUT POP and caffeinated beverages as caffeine dehydrates you and the sugar helps to bloat your system.
The dog days of summer can be very busy for active outdoor enthusiasts. There are trails to hike, rides to bike, and training for fall competitions to endure. The heat associated with the latter part of the summer can be tough, but commitment to good hydration habits can help you be successful—even in the most grueling of summer days!
Here are some helpful tips to maintain your “Kool-Aid”:
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COTTONMOUTHS. WATER Moccasins. Two names for one very feared snake. Five years ago, in an
effort to rid myself of a severe snake phobia, I decided to venture to southwestern Illinois’ Snake Road, known for its massive reptile migration. Photos of snakes were enough to activate my sympathetic nervous system, setting in the primal regions off in my brain. My palms began to sweat, my breathing increased and my heart rattled around in my chest like a pinball. If a photo could evoke such a primitive response, what would happen once I walked a road writhering with live reptiles?
STORY AND PHOTOS BY JENNIFER CONNER
OffSNAKE ROADA N O U T E R O Z A R K S E X P E R I E N C E
CAPTIONS:
BLACKRATSNAKEJPG: BLACK RATSNAKE CLINGING TO THE SIDE OF
THE BLUFF
IMG3438 SNAKE ROAD
IMG3448 RIBBON SNAKE
IMG4097 COTTONMOUTH ENTERING THE SWAMP
IMG4100-4105- COTTONMOUTH IN DEFENSIVE POSE
IMG4118 - SNAKE ROAD
IMG4123 - HARMLESS WATER SNAKE
41290-COTTONMOUTH
4133- GROUP SHOT AT TRAILHEAD
2221-COTTONMOUTH
2232-SNAKE ROAD
2234-SWAMP
ROUGHGREENSNAKE- ROUGH GREEN SNAKE
SNAKEROAD BLUFF- BLUFF
TIMBER RATTLESNAKE-TIMBER RATTLESNAKE IN BRUSH ALONG
SWAMP
I trembled as I ticked the days off on the calendar.
Snake Road runs 2.5 miles between bluffs and swamps in Shawnee National Forest’s Larue-Pine Hills/Otter Pond Research Natural Area, which is on the easternmost border of the Ozarks in Illinois. Because of its rich biological diversity, this area was designated as a natural area in an effort to preserve its flora and fauna. Larue Road, coined Snake Road, is closed to motorized traffic in the spring (March 15 through May 15) and fall (Sept. 1 through Oct. 30) in order to protect the reptiles and amphibians during their migration. In the spring, the reptiles and amphibians emerge from their hibernacula in the river bluffs to hunt in the swamps. In the fall, they return to their hibernacula in preparation for the impending winter.SNAKE ROAD
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As we wound our way by car through the river bottoms, my fear became palpable. Even as we approached Snake Road viewing magnificent bluffs that towered above the road and swamp like sentinels guarding a treasure, my heart leapt and landed like a discombobulated frog. My legs turned to pudding as we exited the car in the parking area. I conjured images of the Indiana Jones movie in which young Indy falls into a railcar of snakes. My ears started feeling like cotton had been stuffed into them, an indicator that I was close to fainting. I slowed my breathing, put my head between
my legs for a bit, then slowly stood up and followed Bob, snake expert extraordinaire, onto Snake Road perhaps never to return, I lamented. I had studied snakes for years. But it wasn’t school that compelled me to study, it was my fear. As a scientist, I analyzed my fear logically and was convinced that if I could learn how to identify each snake by species, and if I could intimately understand their habits, defense mechanisms and reproduction, then my logical mind could prevail over the primal mind that urged me to run away screaming.
Small wonderThe Salamander is a unique, often
overlooked amphibian, due to its
secretive nature, but you can find
them if you try! Salamanders need
fresh water and damp areas to lay
their eggs so they can be found
in moist woods and areas with
“seeps” of water. The salamander
is voiceless and has a tail unlike
its cousins the frogs and toads.
Salamanders primarily feed on small
arthropods and boast some very
beautiful and unique patterns. The
central newt is a unique salamander
all its own. With 3 life stages, the
central newt leads quite a dramatic
life. It begins life in the water and
spends its second stage of life,
known as the eft stage, as a land
dweller only to return to the water
as an adult and live out the rest of
its life. The central newt excretes
toxins, which make it unpalatable to
predators, so wash your hands after
handling them!
GROUP SHOT AT TRAILHEAD
COTTONMOUTH ENTERING THE SWAMP
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I spotted our first snake, a cottonmouth. OK...I was….OK? After encountering the first snake, my fear subsided dramatically. We approached the snake (from a safe distance!) and Bob explained how the cottonmouth’s first line of defense is to display its cottony mouth. Indeed, the thick-bodied snake opened its mouth in protest of our close proximity. But it didn’t move. Even as Bob moved closer (he’s a professional folks, don’t attempt this at home) the snake stood its ground but made no move to strike.
and-back hike of Snake Road. On our journey we discovered 20 cottonmouths, a Mississippi Green Snake, a couple of ribbon snakes and a water snake. I enjoyed every moment. In fact, I enjoyed it so much, I returned three times over the past few years, the most recent visit this spring with my husband, daughter, and nephew in tow. Snakes can evoke a legitimate wariness, but they can also evoke an irrational fear. Consider this: according to the University of Florida’s Department of Wildlife Ecology, there are approximately six fatalities per year in the United States due to snake bites. Multiply that by three and add three and you have the
Cottonmouths are known for their “aggression,” and I suppose this is true, depending on how you define aggression. Sure, cottonmouths stand their ground and display their white mouth and rattle their tail when provoked. However, according to a study performed by the Savannah River Ecology Laboratory, few cottonmouths will actually strike when stepped on by a mechanical foot. Furthermore, the records on cottonmouth bites and fatalities are surprisingly slim. According to Texas Parks and Wildlife, less than 1 percent of all fatal snake bites have been perpetrated by the cottonmouth. We continued our five-mile out-
BLACK RATSNAKE CLINGING
TO THE SIDE OF THE BLUFF
ROUGH GREEN SNAKE
COTTONMOUTH IN
DEFENSIVE POSE
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approximate number of fatalities caused by dog bites. Furthermore; a person is eight times more likely to die from a bee sting than a snake bite and approximately 6,265 times more likely to die in a car accident. Snakes are maligned creatures; they deserve their space, but not the irrational fear with which so many of us grapple. I’m still working on my own phobia. I doubt I’ll ever be calm and collected when one slithers out in front of me, catching me unaware. But now I know, logically at least, that I should be much more frightened of getting in my car and driving to the store. Another trail off the beaten path, another lesson learned.
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FERAL PIGS ARE BECOMING A TROUBLESOME PART OF MISSOURI’S OUTDOORS. At present, they’re isolated in small to medium population pockets scattered across southern Missouri. However, as these free-roaming swine increase, the problems they
cause will become more wide-spread. In wildlife classifi cation, a “feral” animal is a wild creature that’s descended from domestic stock. So, a feral pig is a wild pig that can be traced back to domestic ancestors. A few feral pigs have been present in Missouri since the days when we had open-range grazing. The problem became worse in the last 15-20 years when in some instances, pigs escaped from enclosures; in most, they were intentionally released for hunting purposes.
FERAL PIGS ON THE RISE
B Y M I K E P E T E R S E NPrivate Land Conservationist for the Missouri Department of Conservation
Feral pigs reproduce quickly.
Take a 70 percent harvest rate each year to maintain the population at its current level.
Studies have found that hunting only removes up to 40percent of a population each year.
interesting facts:
each year.
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FERAL PIGS ON THE RISE
Feral pigs are a threat to livestock producers.
Feral pigs cause major damage to croplands, pasture and hay lands by rooting.
Feral pigs can carry swine brucellosis, pseudo-rabies, leptospirosis, swine fever, foot-and-mouth and other diseases.
Could cripple the agriculture industry if allowed to get into domestic livestock.
Feral pigs harm wildlife directly by competing with them for food and resources.
Feral pigs eat acorns, turkey eggs, deer fawns, ground cached nuts and insects.
Feral pigs eat acorns which have been shown to reduce forest regeneration.
Feral pig rooting can cause large scale erosion leading to polluted streams.
Feral pigs will attack humans, particularly the sows protecting their piglets.
Feral pigs can carry diseases, which put people and pets at risk.
Feral pigs cause damage to public and private property.
Feral pigs threaten fi sh, forest, and wildlife resources, which contribute $10.5 billion annually Missouri’s economy.
AGRICULTURE PRODUCERS
Feral pigs are bad for:
NATURAL RESCOURCES
HUMANS
As a result of this complex background, feral pigs come in a variety of shapes, colors, and sizes. This is because they breed freely between the domestic breeds and the European boar. Some will look like domestic pigs and others can look like the rough, wild “razorbacks.” The problems feral hogs can cause go far beyond the “nuisance” classifi cation. Some say they are in the top 100 of Invasive Species we have. These wild pigs are a threat to humans, agriculture and the state’s natural resources. All State and Federal Agency’s recognize the danger and destruction caused by feral pigs and is making a consorted effort to control and eradicate them in Missouri.
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$10.5 billion annually Missouri’s economy.
Report all information about the illegal release of feral pigs to your local Conservation Agent or to the Missouri Operation Game Thief Hotline at 1-800-392-1111.
Report sightings of feral pigs in southwest Missouri to the Department of Conservation 417-847-5949, x6084.
action:
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Reference Code 043.
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RUNBIKESWIM
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YOU’VE PROBABLY HEARD OF the Ironman, 140.6 miles spread across three disciplines, swimming,
cycling and running. It’s the Ironman length that gets the most attention, but there are actually several triathlon lengths down to less than 20 miles for the entire event. The lengths are as follows:
SPRINT 300-750 meter swim, 12-15 mile bike, and 5k run.OLYMPIC 1500 meter swim, 25 mile bike, 10k run.HALF IRONMAN 1.2 mile swim, 56 mile bike, 13.1 mile run.IRONMAN 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike, 26.2 mile run.
Everybody has to start somewhere, and though there are elite athletes that compete in the short and super-fast sprint length. It’s also a great place for the average person to jump in and check out the sport. If it’s your first time, a sprint, where the swim takes place in a pool, is the easiest to prepare for and can give you a taste of what the sport is really about.
RUNBIKESWIMSPRINT TRIATHLONS ENTRY TO A SPORTB Y R I C H A R D R E E D
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Breaking it down - If you are interested in the sport of triathlon, check out your local area to see if there is a club where you can find guidance and training buddies. I’ve participated in four sprint triathlons myself, and though I am by no means an expert, I’ll give you an idea of what you can do to prepare for your first event.
on race day. The more time you spend in the water, the more comfortable you will be when it’s time to race. Test out all of your equipment in the water. Once you have decided on your
swimsuit, goggles, and/or cap, take them all to the pool and use them to swim the total distance of your upcoming event. It will make it just that much more comfortable on race day.
EQUIPMENTSwim suit - There are actually several options when choosing what to wear for swimming, but consider first, the transition area is open to public viewing, and typically the suit you wear into the water will remain with you for the duration of the event. Some choose to wear a regular swimsuit and then wear shorts and/or a shirt over it for the bike and run. You can also use more specialized gear such as triathlon shorts or a triathlon suit. Both of these are made from material much like a typical swimsuit, and include a thin chamois for comfort on the bike. The multi-stretch and conforming fabrics make for comfortable swimming, riding and running.Goggles - Goggles help to protect your eyes from chemicals in swimming pools and any debris that could be encountered in open water swimming. You can also see much more clearly than without them.Swim cap - For safety reasons, swim caps are usually required for open water swims. Colorful caps make it easier for lifeguards to see each person and help with any problems. Indoor pool swims usually don’t require a swim cap, but you should get used to it anyway because you’re going to love your new sport!
TRAINING Spend some time in the pool. Concentrate on finding a pace that you can keep for the duration of your swim. Unless you are a seasoned swimmer, this is the place where you are most likely to feel some anxiety on race day. Get to know your approximate time that you expect your distance in the water to take; you may need to know that
THE SWIM:
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EQUIPMENT Bike - You are definitely going to need a bike. However, depending on what you are out to accomplish, the type of bike may not matter that much. Unless the triathlon you are going to enter is specifically an off-road competition, most riders will use a road bike, modified road bike, or time trial bike. I’ve seen plenty of people participate in sprint triathlons with mountain bikes, and you might even get away with a cruiser if it’s a flat course. If you don’t already have a road bike, you might want to wait and see if you like the sport first before you invest the money for a faster and lighter rig.Shoes - What shoes you wear will largely be determined by your bike and pedals. If you have a road bike and cleated cycling shoes with clipless pedals, you’re going to want to use those shoes. They’re the ones that you most likely trained with, and you want your gear to be comfortable. If you are not using cleated shoes, you most likely will want to ride in the same shoes you will be running in. This will speed up your transition, but we’ll get to that later.
Helmet - In accordance with USA Triathlon (USAT) Rules, article 5.9 (partial) “All participants shall wear a protective head cover, undamaged and unaltered, which meets or exceeds the safety standards of the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).”Race Number - Different triathlons may have different standards for identification, but generally you will have a race number to be placed somewhere on your back. Officials may also require a number attached to your bike, and/or helmet. You can get specific instructions when you pick up your race packet.
TRAININGJust like swimming, you’ll be more comfortable on your ride the more time you spend on your bike. Practice riding the full distance in your training sessions. The bike portion of the event is a time trial. While on the course, this means that you cannot draft another cyclist. When overtaking another cyclist, once you enter their draft, you have 15 seconds to pass them. Once you are passed them, the cyclist is required to drop back out of your draft before moving to overtake you once again. You should familiarize yourself with all of the rules before race day.
EQUIPMENT Shoes - You’ll want to wear the shoes that you are most confident in making the distance on race day. Comfort is the key. Don’t choose race day to be the day to try out those brand new shoes you just got last week.Race number - As with most running event, during the running portion of the triathlon, you will be required to display your race number on the front of your body.
TRAINING Train for the distance that you are going to run. If you are primarily a long distance runner and have no problem putting in ten miles a day, your running miles are going to be easy. However, like most, you will probably be lacking in another area, and that valuable training time may best be spent on where you are weakest. If on the other hand, you aren’t a strong runner, work on getting your miles up. It’s your first triathlon, and you want to make sure that you can finish.
THE BIKE: THE RUN:
TRANSITION: the fourth sportTransition is a word that describes the time and functions that are carried out in order to switch from one sport to the next. You make the transition from swimming
to cycling, then cycling to running. It really is a sport all its own. Your overall time in a triathlon includes the time that it takes you to make it through both transitions.
EQUIPMENT Bucket or bag - You’re going to have plenty of gear and a bike to take to the transition area. I use a five gallon bucket that can also double as a place to sit when I change my shoes.Towel and/or mat - When you come out of the pool, you will probably want a towel to wipe of any excess water. A second towel, bath mat or small piece of carpet can be used as a place to layout all of your item, but it isn’t necessary.Race belt - This is an optional piece of equipment that can speed transition. Your race number can be attached to the race belt, and the belt turned to the front or back between the bike and running.
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TRAINING Like I said before, transition is really an entire sport of its own. When you have mere seconds separating the top competitors in any race, the time you safe getting in and out of transition quickly can make or break your race. You have to practice both the transition from swim to bike (T1) and bike to running (T2).You’ll want to lay out all of your gear in sequence and practice getting it on and off. This will help you to decide what gear you really want, and what you can do without. This brings me to a debate that everyone must have regarding gear.
Socks or No Socks? This may seem an odd question, but changing in and out of socks in transition can actually take a considerable amount of time. If you’ve ever tried to put dry socks on wet feet, you know that they can be quite sticky. This slows your transition to the bike. However, if you are going to be miserable without them, or if you are going to get blisters from not wearing them, you may elect to use socks. You’ll have to try this out in training. See if you can complete a 12 mile ride without socks. Then ditch the socks on your 2 mile training run. If it doesn’t make a huge problem you may want to save the time and ditch the socks on race day.
You’ll need to register for your race far enough out to give you time to train for the event. As the date approaches you will be given information on picking up your race packet. You should also check with race officials to see if there is a course preview. This will give you a play by play of what to expect on race day. You might get to walk or drive the course in preparation for your event. The night before the race, make sure you have all of your gear packed, and your race numbers prepared for the next day. If you have separate riding and running jerseys, pin the numbers on the night before. If there are any bike or helmet numbers, make sure they are securely attached. Pack a change of clothing in case you want to change after the event. Eat a healthy dinner, make sure you’re getting plenty of water and try to get a good night’s sleep.
THE RACE:
Below are some of the annual events in the area. Search online for a more complete list.Spring: Neosho Sprint Triathlon | Go Green Triathlon (Joplin Area)Summer: Summer Round Up (Jasper) | Y not Tri (Cassville) | The Eureakan (Eureka Springs) | Tiger Tri (Republic) | TriFest for MS (Bentonville)
Make sure you get up early enough to get some breakfast and give it some time to settle. I usually have oatmeal, with a spoonful of peanut butter and a couple of cups of coffee. Give yourself plenty of time to get to the race site. It’s time to get marked up. Once you arrive on site, you will typically have an hour or so where you can get all of you gear into the transition area and get it all set up. Either before or after you get your gear laid out, you need to get your body markings. A volunteer will use a marker to write on your upper arms and calves information including race number and age. Should you become separated from any of your race numbers, you can still identify yourself by your body markings. Once transition is closed, it’s pretty close to race time. In the case of a pool swim, athletes will be asked to line up according to their estimated swim time. You want to get as close to this estimate as possible. At the start, one by one, swimmers enter the water, and their time is started. On completion of the swim, each athlete makes their way to the transition are to switch to the bike. You make your way to your station and switch to your cycling gear. Once you have your cycling gear all in place, run to the exit pushing your bike. There is absolutely no riding your bike in transition. Once you are out of transition, race officials direct you to the mount line. You cannot be on your bike before this line; doing so can result in a penalty or disqualification. Now you’re off on your ride. Upon completion of the bike course, you will see officials marking a dismount line. Again, if you cross this line and are still on your bike, you may receive a penalty or disqualification. Run your bike back to your area and prepare for your run. Rack your bike, exchange your running shoes, and run your way back out of transition. The exit from transition for the run course is usually separate from that of the bike course. Make sure you are clear about the transition exits prior to your event. Now you have but 3.1 miles left to finish your first triathlon. After the bike,
don’t be surprised if your legs feel heavy. This is one of the things you get used to in training for the event. Upon completion of the running course, you are at the finish. The finish is located somewhere away from the transition area, and there is a thrill when you cross that line for the first time that’s like no other. My first triathlon was spring of 2013 in Neosho, Missouri. The race start was delayed because of lightning in the area. My swim went well, but I as I left the indoor pool area to run out into a steady rain to transition to my bike, I distinctly remember thinking, “this is nuts”. My training took over. I reached my bike, slipped on my shoes and helmet and pushed my bike through transition to the mount line. For the next 13 miles, the rain continued. It was chilly and I could feel the cold water squish through the bottom of my shoes as my feet came around to the top of each pedal stroke. As I approached the dismount line, I slowed early knowing my breaks might not work so well with all the rain. Luckily they grabbed, and I made my way through my T2 transition. Just as I entered the run course, the rain stopped and soon after the sun started to come out. I went from cold and wet to hot and sweaty in no time. That first mile on my feet was the toughest, but eventually my muscles relaxed and my pace smoothed out. Before I knew it, I was at the halfway point of the run. My thighs were starting to ache, but I was ready for that feeling. As I rounded the last turn and could see the finish line, I found that I did have a little gas left in the tank. Those last couple hundred feet were probably only slightly faster, but to me it felt like I was a sprinter in the Olympics. It was exhilarating, I was spent, and as foreign as the past two hours had seemed to me, I absolutely loved it! It’s an interesting feeling the first time you call yourself a triathlete. So check out some of the events in the area, get on your bike, spend some time in the pool, and get some miles on those running shoes. Sign up, train and compete! You never know, you may have the Hawaii Ironman in your future!
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