Fallen tree blocks popular hiking trail. - FWS photo by Barbara Boyle

Severe winds blew down large trees. - FWS photo by Barbara Boyle

Fallen trees prevent refuge biologists from completing surveys. - FWS photo by Barbara Boyle

 Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge has had many busy days clearings trees and fallen limbs as the result of severe wind storms. 

The windy season began May 6^th when winds of up to 66 mph were documented.  There was an unofficial report of 72 mph winds at the radio station.  Since then, the refuge and surrounding area has experienced several other high wind occurrences.  

Some of these storms have been strong enough to flip docked boats, tear roofs off buildings and cause lengthy electrical outages.   As recently as July 10^th, the refuge was without power for a full day. 

After these wind events, refuge staff members are busy clearing trees from the roads and trails or falling trees that are potential hazards.  First priority is to ensure safe passage through the refuge. 

Since several county roads bisect the refuge, staff members work cooperatively with Becker County Highway Division to ensure priority roads are cleared.  Then staff can focus on service roads and trails within the refuge.   

All program areas depend on the service road and trail infrastructure for refuge access.  Refuge biologists’ survey efforts were halted until trails are cleared for vehicle access.  Visitors are not permitted into areas until trails have been cleared or inspected for hazardous trees and limbs. 

Prescribed burning is stopped until burn perimeters could be cleared.  With over 100 miles of roads and trails, this takes a great deal of time.  To compound the situation, imagine doing this after every storm.