Last March Weekend

March 27th through 29th, 2009

Lake Lucerne
On Saturday, Lake Lucerne was still frozen. My guess is that Lake Lucerne will still be frozen next Saturday.
Lake Lucerne
There were some signs of the start of ice-out in the northwestern corner, but there is much phase change to go.
Lake Lucerne
After drilling a hole, we were horrified to find 18.5 inches of very good ice. Ice heaves continue to slowly scour the western shore, pushing rocks and docks (mostly rocks) up the banks.
Lake Lucerne
The setting sun on Saturday reminded one of summer. The setting temperatures slapped any summer thinkers back to reality, leaving a visible bruise.
Lake Lucerne
All weekend sap was fired down to syrup.
Lake Lucerne
There were 4 batches. None were scorched. One came close though.
Lake Lucerne
Bottling started on Saturday and continued through Sunday.
Lake Lucerne
A few gallons were ready for pancakes by Sunday.
Lake Lucerne
The lake is very skate-rinky. I can't recall the last time the entire surface was so flat and slippery. I don't think the lake will come up much before ice-out. Most of the in-flows are dry. This winter does remind me of the winter of 2001-2002. The lake did not rise much in the spring of 2002, but shot up 20+ inches during the summer and fall.


-Nemo