We decided to do some exploring this past week and visited the site of the (1) Funny River forest fire, the (2) Captain Cook State Recreation Area, and more in the (3) town of Kenai, an area known as Beluga Point and the mouth of the Kenai River along the Cook Inlet.
A few weeks before we were to arrive here at the campground on the Funny River Road, we heard about the forest fire burning in the immediate area, and it was reported at that time "not contained". We called Al and learned that the fire was only a few miles from the campground, but no injuries were reported, and that the wind had shifted, and that rain was predicted. All good news! Now weeks later, only the visible images remain from the fire that burnt almost 194,000 acres (almost the size of Baxter State Park).
I love seeing the green shoots and the new grass as the forest starts it's recovery, but I did learn that it is believed that the fire was caused by human carelessness, and was fueled because of two things. The first is climate change that has effected the snow fall of recent winters causing very dry conditions, and the second is the spruce beetle that is weakening the main species of the forest, killing them and turning many trees into kindling. Unfortunately, these threats will continue!
The day we had the fuel line leak fixed on the van, we decided to head along to the end of that road, about 35 miles to check out a recreation area named after Captain James Cook. This area is one he had explored looking for the Northwest Passage. Many spots bear his name. We saw some lovely scenery including a tidal creek, and the Swanson Lake Overlook where I saw a Yellow Warbler pair and a Swainson's Thrush. We didnt go too far into the park due to the muddy, bumpy road conditions.
The final spot to share was in the town of Kenai, where we wanted to see the mouth of the Kenai River where it flows out of Cook Inlet.
It is reported to be a place to see Beluga Whales that follow the salmon coming and going on the tidal changes. So of course we were looking. We also had a chance for a beach walk!
I'm sure you can guess the shape of the rock Tone is holding. We also had a sweet visit from this
Savannah Sparrow.
Walking from Beluga Point we stopped at a still-active, Russian Orthodox Church built during the time when Russian fur traders were active in this area trying to get all the Sea Otter pelts they could obtain.
Apparently this is the most luxurious and sought after fur. My understanding is that the missionaries came to work against abusive activities by traders, especially crimes against First Nation women and children. We had a wonderful volunteer who shared about the church.
Another stop we made in Kenai, on the way to Beluga Point, was to the First Nation sites where the elders meet (Fort Kenay) and to see some sculptures in front of the Wellness Center where medical needs of the people are met.
The weather has been rainy and cool so some of the photos aren't as bright as I would like but we did want to share the experience as it is for us. We are looking forward to a picnic with the folks here in the campground for the 4th of July. We hope to have watermelon and Mom's potato salad, pickled eggs and BBQed chicken!
Final footnote is to share my heart-loving friends latest. She bit into a Dove candy and showed me what she held in her hand. She holds mine, too!
Happy 4th everyone. We hope you have a happy holiday, as we all recognize the gift of our freedom in this country. It may not be perfect but it is our wonderful home. I am grateful.
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