We have been receiving some nice weather over the past few days and it appears the spring snowmelt has started in the high-country. There is a lot of snow to melt in the mountains and warm temperatures are helping to get things going. Providing we don’t receive excessive rain over the next month, we should not be overly concerned about flooding on our local rivers. Continue reading
It’s beginning to look and feel more and more like spring around here every day. The days are growing longer and temperatures are beginning to warm. Much of the snow at lower elevations has melted and the valley is showing signs that it is about to transform from one season to the next. All of our rivers and streams have become ice-free and some of the lakes are starting to open now, too. Ducks, Canada geese, and other migratory waterfowl have returned from their southern winter retreats, and are searching for suitable nesting sites. It’s been two weeks since I saw a flock of mountain bluebirds in Crowsnest Pass. You know spring is knocking at the door when these colorful birds make their appearance in this part of the province. Continue reading
Southwest Alberta continues to dig out from a major snowstorm that occurred last weekend. Crowsnest Pass received upwards of 80 cm (36 inches) of snow between Saturday and Monday. Castle Mountain Ski Resort, west of Pincher Creek, received 112 cm (44 inches) of snow, and Waterton Park got a whopping 120 cm (47 inches). Highway 3 between Coleman and Sparwood, BC was closed for a couple of days, causing numerous motorists to become stranded. Most were able to find accommodation in the communities of the Pass. The highway reopened late Monday evening and by Tuesday afternoon everyone was on their way again. Some stores remained closed for a day or so, and students in the area enjoyed a couple of snow days at the beginning of the week. It was a good old-fashioned snowstorm, the likes of which we have not seen for a long, long time.
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For the past couple of weeks, much of western Canada, including southern Alberta and Crowsnest Pass, has been under the influence of an Arctic air mass. It’s been bitterly cold, with temperatures well below normal. In some areas, the mercury has dropped to more than -30°C. With wind chills reaching -45°C, the weather has not been fit for man or beast. Continue reading
Robert Appleby photographing Crowsnest Mountain & the Seven Sisters,
with his buddy, Tucker, at his side
Last weekend I had the opportunity to get out with a friend, and local photographer, Robert Appleby. We’ve known each other for quite a few years, but it was the first time we’ve been out shooting photos together. Continue reading
Crowsnest River Panorama
(click image for larger view)
Crowsnest Pass is a great place for photography. There are countless areas and spaces around here to explore with a camera. I always enjoy seeking out new and different vantage points, and angles, from which to photograph our local landscape. Occasionally, I’ll come across photo opportunities where I least expect them. Continue reading
