Welcome to the Deep Portage Web Log

Week of April 3rd

2011-04-08T10:02:00.000-07:00

We've had a great week at Deep Portage! Plymouth Middle School, Mary Queen of Peace School (Rogers), Challenger Elementary (Thief River Falls), and Central Minnesota Christian School (Prinsburg) came up to enjoy the mild spring temps and abundant sunshine. Birds are returning in droves, with geese streaming overhead and robins singing from the trees. Above is a photo of students from Challenger enjoying the fire they built in Survival class, and below is a photo of the Deep Portage teaching staff working towards their firearms safety certificates at the rifle range. Happy spring to everyone!

Spring starts at Deep Portage

2011-03-30T11:27:00.000-07:00

March temps have been on the cool side, but the sun is strong and we are slowly thawing out. The southern face of our main building (pictured above) receives a great deal of sunlight, and is a warm place to hang out in early spring. The Minnesota Conservation Corps is with us this week for a training session, and Baxter Elementary will arrive on Thursday for an overnight visit. Pictured below are the new windows (super efficient!) that are going into the rooms in the 400 hallway. Deep Portage will be adding a number of energy and fossil fuel saving items this spring and summer, including a wind turbine, solar panels, solar hot water system, and even more new windows. Stay tuned for highlights as the season progresses. See you on the trails!

Winter Rendezvous 2011

2011-02-01T09:26:00.000-08:00

The month of January concluded on a high note this past weekend, as Deep Portage hosted its annual Winter Rendezvous. Over 150 people showed up for the event, which has been conducted every January for over 30 years. Below are photos from this year's version. The temps were kind to us this time around, with highs nearing 20 degrees and ample sunshine. January as a whole has been fairly chilly, getting as low -35 on the morning of the 21st. We have nearly 2 feet of snow on the ground, and the ski trails are in perfect condition. We look forward to seeing you out on the trials.

Rotary International Exchange Students enjoying the day

Snowshoe race on Bass Pond

Getting to know the crosscut saw

Blacksmith Paul Webster demonstrates his technique

Winter Arrives at Deep Portage

2010-12-03T07:49:00.000-08:00

We're skiing! We could use some more snow, but the trails are groomed, and ski classes are out striding through the woods. The photo below shows Deep Portage instructor Casey Stanley giving a new skier from Blackduck Elementary some pointers out on the trail. -9 this morning....the coldest so far this season. Blackduck Elementary is with us this week, and a big group from Milaca is coming in next week. Happy Holidays to everyone!

A Beautiful October

2010-10-19T07:09:00.000-07:00

We've had a stretch of magnificent weather so far this month. The last week in particular has been classic autumn all the way; seasonally warm, sunny days, and cool, crisp nights. Last week we hosted a day group from Nevis Elementary (K-2nd grade), and had a residential visit from our great friends at Cuyuna Range Elementary. Below are a few pics from their respective stays. Deer season is approaching, and the Deep Portage range will be open to the public from 1-3 PM on Saturday, October 23rd for our annual "sight in your rifle" program. Call or check our website for more details. See you on the trails!

Deep Portage naturalist Casey Stanley talks Minnesota pines with youngsters from Nevis

Cuyuna Range students learn about birds....see the Black-capped Chickadee!

A Warm October at Deep Portage

2010-10-07T09:38:00.001-07:00

Temps are supposed to reach into the 70s this weekend, but the falling leaves are a reminder that winter is around the corner. Enjoying the nice weather this week is Eagle Point Elementary. See photos from their visit below. This weekend Deep Portage is hosting its annual meeting of trustees, and also the last public Tree-Top Tower Hike of the season. Catch the last of autumn's colors before their gone! See you on the trails!

A calm morning on Bass Pond

on the hunt for aquatic life

A solo attempt on the rock wall

Autumn Arrives

2010-09-30T13:00:00.001-07:00

We're rolling along into a beautiful fall season at Deep Portage. Peak colors are here, and we've had a string of those sunny days and crisp nights that make this time of year so wonderful. Rockford Middle School was with us this past week, as well as Royalton and Lake of the Woods. Join us on October 9th for the final tree-top tower hike of the season (1-888-280-9908 for more info). See you on the trails!

Rockford students canoeing Bass Pond

A Ruby-crowned Kinglet...one of many migrant birds passing through this fall

School Year 2010-11 Begins!

2010-09-15T08:31:00.000-07:00

The new school year is underway, and the fall colors are already peaking through. Cool, wet weather has been the norm so far this September, but we've had our share of beautiful days as well. The World Learners School (Chaska) is our first school group this season, and the visit has been a great one thus far. Pictured above is this year's Deep Portage teaching staff. We have 3 returning instructors and 5 brand new recruits, all eager to get going. See you on the trails!

Summer Camp at Deep Portage

2010-06-24T12:12:00.001-07:00

The summer season is in full swing! The second week of Forkhorn camps is underway, with 34 young hunters working towards their firearms safety certification. The big storms that went through Minnesota last week left us relatively untouched, and the weather this week has been quite nice. Our 2010 summer staff are doing a great job managing the kids' busy schedule, which includes rifle range, climbing wall, orienteering, archery, canoeing, fishing, and camp out, to name just a few. Below are a few photos of last weeks successful Forkhorn I graduates....way to go guys!

Spring at Deep Portage Learning Center

2010-04-29T09:16:00.000-07:00

We've had a bit of welcome rain to ease the drought-like conditions of the past months, and the trees and flowers are responding. Visiting schools over the last few weeks have included Twin River Valley High School (Bode, IA), Lincoln Elementary (Little Falls), Dr. S.G. Knight Elementary (Randall), Cromwell-Wright Elementary (Cromwell), the Cass Lake Ecology Club, and Sauk Rapids-Rice Middle School. Below are photos from a few of those visits. See you on the trails!

the Cass Lake Ecology Club enjoys the DP Teepee

DPLC teachers Caitlin and Charlotte learn their mammal skulls

Twin River Valley H.S. students at the MDNR Walleye Traps near Woman Lake

Early Spring at Deep Portage

2010-04-14T06:45:00.000-07:00

The warm, dry spring weather has continued into mid-April here at Deep Portage. Although we could use the rain, the fair weather has been great for visiting groups. By Easter Monday we had replaced skiing and snowshoeing with archery and canoeing.....that's early to be paddling around on the pond! We've had some great groups in the past few weeks, including Challenger Elementary (Thief River Falls), Central Minnesota Christian (Prinsburg), Baxter Elementary (Baxter), and Cuyuna Range (Crosby-Ironton). We're looking forward to some late-April showers to help with the May flowers, and hoping to see you out on the trails. Happy Spring!

Cuyuna students enjoying the Tree-Top Tower

The DP teaching staff out for a day of birding

Hunting for macro-invertebrates on Bass Pond

Bird-banding with Cuyuna (can you see the junco?)

Late-Winter Warmth at Deep Portage

2010-03-16T14:32:00.000-07:00

Is this really March? Only one day that hasn't hit 40 this month? No temps below freezing since March 8th? Wow. We've welcomed the warmth, at the expense of our ski and snowshoe trails, and are thinking of revising our predicted ice-off date for Bass Pond. Robbinsdale and Plymouth Middle Schools have been with us for the past few weeks, with the first two groups skiing and the last few groups doing archery instead. Orienteering, Animal Signs, Climbing Wall, Pioneer Olympics, and Survival class can go out no matter what the conditions, and everyone has enjoyed being outside in the unusually mild weather. Below are photos from the past week or two at Deep Portage. See you on the trails!

Challenging "the Overhang" at the DP Climbing Wall

Enthusiastic Orienteering Experts

No Snow! A view from the DP Tower

The Last Ice-Angler of the Season - It's getting Slushy!

February at Deep Portage

2010-02-15T12:05:00.000-08:00

The days are getting longer, and the cold has relented (for now). We've had just enough snow to keep the ski trails refreshed and in great condition, and enough sunny days to make for great outdoor fun. Winter Rendezvous was a great success on January 30th, with well over 100 in attendance, and it was only -15 at the start! Wonderful groups from across the state have been coming to visit, including long time Deep Portage supporters Princeton Middle School, Mounds Park Academy, Burrough's Elementary, and Menahga. Below are some pics from recent group visits. See you on the trails!

Mounds Park Academy enjoys skiing with Joanna

Kick and glide down the Great Hall Trail

Northland Schools Mentor Program ice fishing on Bass Pond

A New Year at Deep Portage

2010-01-07T09:57:00.000-08:00

January started with a cold front, but the 13 inches of snow that fell over Christmas helped insulate us from the deep freeze. The first group of 2010 was the World Learner's School from Chaska. They've spent the week keeping warm by XC-skiing and snowshoeing, among other fun activities. Also joining us this week was the University of Minnesota Pharmaceutical Care Conference. Don't forget that the 29th annual Deep Portage Winter Rendezvous is on January 30. Call 1-888-280-9908 for details. Below are photos from the past week at Deep Portage. See you on the trails!

Joanna and Jessica stay warm while leading Charlie to Base

Skiers from the World Learner's head down the Great Hall Trail

Negotiating a turn on the ski trails

The U of M pharmacists group relax by the fire in the Great Hall

Winter arrives at Deep Portage

2009-12-16T06:32:00.000-08:00

A warm November has given way to a chilly December in the north country. The change in weather has not dampened anyone's spirits, however, and visiting school groups are still having a blast. We've seen our final two groups of this year from Chaska Middle School East, and also had our second annual (week-long!) visit from the sixth grade at Milaca Elementary School. ENERGY UPDATE: The Deep Portage Wood Boilers have, to date, burned through 25 cords of locally harvested wood. That wood has replaced 5,500 gallons of propane, and saved Deep Portage over $5,000. Below are photos from the past few weeks at Deep Portage. Be sure to check our website for upcoming events, or email us at portage@uslink.net to get on our mailing list for monthly updates. See you on the trails!

Chaska students find their bearings on Landform III

A Black-capped Chickadee at the Bird Observatory

The Wonderful teachers from Milaca Elementary School

Braving the cold on Charlie to Base

a few fine examples from our wreath-making class on 12/12

What's up at Deep Portage

2009-11-19T12:09:00.000-08:00

The past two weeks have been beautiful! Chaska Middle School West (Metallic Meteors and Crystal Comets) and Chaska Pioneer Ridge (Explorers and Pathfinders) have made their annual autumn trip to Deep Portage. They hit some of the best weather of the season, crisp mornings, sunny days, and starry nights. Below are photos from the Pathfinder's visit. DEEP PORTAGE GREEN ALERT: To date, our wood gasification boilers have burned through 12 cords of locally harvested wood. In doing so, they have replaced nearly 3,400 gallons of propane. Wow! Check back regularly for more info about our green energy projects. Happy Thanksgiving!

Scaling the Deep Portage Climbing Wall

a carefully executed pass on the balance beam

rope swing challenge on the low ropes course

November at Deep Portage

2009-11-09T07:22:00.000-08:00

This month has started with some beautiful, warm weather. Quite a contrast to the relatively cold and wet October we had. This week we'll see the first of six groups from Chaska come for their annual fall visit. We have been heating the buildings with our new wood gasification boilers, and all is going well. Upcoming public programs include a Family Climbing Wall on 11/14, Map and Compass on 12/5, and Balsam Wreath Making on 12/12. Call Deep Portage for details. Below are photos from last week at Deep Portage. Happy Autumn!

Arne loads the Garn Wood Boiler

Another dreamcatcher completed by Lincoln Elementary (White Bear Lake)

Lincoln students mastering the orienteering course

October at Deep Portage

2009-10-21T07:18:00.000-07:00

The north woods fairly sings in October, does it not? A freshening of the air, fall colors at their peak, the first dusting of snow, southward bird migration in full swing; truly a great time of year. The past few weeks have been very active at Deep Portage. We hosted our Board of Trustees Annual Meeting on the 10th, and officially dedicated our new wood gasification heating system. 10 schools from around the state have visited thus far in October. Groups from as far away as the Twin Cities and Lake of the Woods, and as close as Longville-Remer and Pine River. Upcoming weekend programs include "sight in your rifle" on the 24th, and our second annual Halloween Concert Series event on the 31st. This year the music will be provided by bluegrass legend Dick Kimmel, accompanied by the vocalist Jerilyn Kjellberg. Call Deep Portage for tickets and info. Happy Autumn!

Trustee Bud Smith cuts the ribbon on our new heating system

Longville-Remer students learn survival skills

DP teacher Casey Stanley helps with a cold-water rescue training

fall colors and the first snow on October 10th

September 2009

2009-09-16T12:10:00.000-07:00

Deep Portage is back underway for the school 2009/10. Nicollet High School, Lowell Elementary, and Nevis Elementary are on the schedule for this week, and the teaching staff, new and veteran, are excited to get going. Three new teachers, Caitlin Shrestha, Brock Nedland, and Charlotte Henning, have joined the veteran crew of Casey Stanley, Fabiana Lima Verde, Joanna Wepking, Clare Croteau, and Abby Pifer. Also happening at Deep Portage is the construction of our new energy center. The new building will house two boilers that create heat via wood gasification. The new system will have both environmental and economic benefits, and we look forward to the completion of the project. Be sure to check our website for upcoming public programs. See you on the trail!

The 09/10 Teaching Staff on the tower

Learning new activities during Staff Training

Students from Nicollet H.S. on the Atlatl range

Aiming the old tomahawk

The new energy center as of August 6th

The new energy center as of September 19th

More from Deep Portage summer 2009

2009-07-27T08:02:00.000-07:00

Last week was a busy one, with five different groups visiting Deep Portage. Everyone got along splendidly, and the weather cooperated (mostly). Aquatics Camp and Upland Bird Camp were busy all week long, as were the U of M Hydrogeologists that are here for their annual two-week field camp. Arriving at Deep Portage mid-week were two groups, one from the Twin Cities (the Science Museum Idea Cooperative) and one from Sebeka (Leap into Learning program). It was a blast! Below are photos from the various groups. See you on the trails!

The Science Museum Idea Cooperative crew

Expert instruction at the clays range

The Sebeka kids show off their frog shirts

Upland camp visits Pine Shadows Kennel in Brainerd

The Aquatics Crew on the Boy River canoe route

.....and at "The Bog"

Forkhorn II camps at Deep Portage

2009-07-16T06:57:00.000-07:00

The first two weeks of July have been unusually cool and dry, perfect conditions for Forkhorn II camp. Forkhorn II focuses on bowhunting techniques and safety practices, but also allows time for a good introduction to muzzleloading and big-bore riflery. Below are images from Forkhorn II sessions 1 and 2.

climbing the overhang at the rock wall

shooting black powder rifles at the range

another successful survival fire

taking aim from the tree stand

good advice from rangemaster Larry

expert shelter-builders

heading in for dinner after a good day on the range

Summer Camp 2009

2009-06-22T13:11:00.000-07:00

Summer Camp 2009 is underway at Deep Portage! We have completed two weeks of Forkhorn I, and are currently hosting the Future Farmers of America leadership camp. Next week will start the Forkhorn II cycle. Below are images from camp over the past weeks. The trails are open, and you can call or check the website for details about the public programs offered in our Summer Naturalist Series. Happy Trails!

Steady shooters in the "prone" position at the DP range

Working on marksmanship from the benches

Another fence crossed safely during "Firearms in the Field"

Nice work with the .22, boys!

What is summer camp without a campfire -- Wilderness Survival Class

Atop the Tree-top Tower

Summer arrives at Deep Portage

2009-05-22T12:10:00.000-07:00

The last week of the 2008-09 school year saw seven (yes, seven) different schools visit Deep Portage. St. Tim's, Lino Lakes, Washington Tech, Northland, J.W. Smith, Bemidji M.S., and Norman County made the week a wonderfully active experience. The photos below are from the past few weeks at Deep Portage. Summer staff training starts June 1st, and camps get going after that. Come out and see us for a summer naturalist series program! Details about summer programming can be found on our website, www.deep-portage.org.

Cass Lake Ecology Club

Longville-Remer playing Cat and Mouse

Happy students from Northland Schools

St. Tim's out birdwatching

Warm Weather Returns to the North Country

2009-05-01T07:44:00.000-07:00

Bass Pond is open for canoeing, American Robins are building a nest under the deck, and Spring is in the air. Sauk Rapids-Rice Middle School, Mary Queen of Peace School (Rogers), and The World Learners School (Chaska) have been enjoying a beautiful week at Deep Portage. A few late April showers did not dampen spirits, and plenty of sunshine returned quickly to dry us out. Below are images from the past week. Enjoy!

World Learners on the Archery Range

Setting a course for the beaver lodge

Sauk Rapids students survey the scene on "Trials of Life"

A sunny day at the Deep Portage bog

An intrepid pair of World Learners get set to take on Bass Pond

Deep Portage teachers Fabiana and Abby catch a few rays

T-shirt weather in April on the Bog Boardwalk

April at Deep Portage - Springtime!

2009-04-14T10:52:00.000-07:00

The snow from our April 1st storm is officially melted, and Bass Pond is getting ready to open up. Bring on the water canaries! Robins, Sapsuckers, and Phoebes are back and singing up a storm, and the Wood Frogs are getting ready to wake up the nighttime forest. Challenger Elementary from Thief River Falls brought over 180 people last week, and Baxter Elementary followed them up by bringing 120! It's a great time to be out in the woods, so put away the snowshoes and warm up the hiking boots. The photos below are from Challenger Elementary School's visit. See you on the trail!

A breezy April day on the Tower

Challenger students getting ready for the campfire program

Orienteering Class

Checking out the beaver chew marks

Spring arrives at Deep Portage

2009-03-31T08:31:00.000-07:00

Warm days and cool nights have started the sap running and the birds chirping, although the usual spring snow storm is brewing. We expect 8-12 inches today, so we may be back in snowshoes for the incoming schools. McLeod West (Brownton) is in, and Lincoln (Little Falls) and Central Minnesota Christian (Prinsburg) arrive on Wednesday. The photos below are from the last few weeks at Deep Portage. Happy Spring!

Plymouth students visit the bird observatory

E.D. Williams (Shoreview) poses for a group shot

Abby and Nate help Plymouth pack up for home

Plymouth Students await a tasty DP lunch

March at Deep Portage

2009-03-12T13:52:00.000-07:00

A fresh 7 inches of powder on 3/10! The snow storm brought in temperatures of -20 this past week, but the students and staff at Deep Portage are bundled up and enjoying the late winter glory. Sandburg Middle School has been with us all week. Check out the photos below to see the kids in action.

Fire-building with Joanna

Taking the water temp on Bass Pond

drilling through two feet of ice on Bass Pond

the snowshoe sprint!

a proud group with their newly built shelter

hitting the deep snow near Bass Pond

testing out a new set of 'shoes

Late February at Deep Portage

2009-02-26T11:17:00.000-08:00

A bit of new snow has restored the skiing conditions and the winter cheer. This week we have seen L'Etoile du Nord (St. Paul), Walker-Hackensack-Akeley, and Nettleton (Duluth). Below are photos of Walker students and staff enjoying Bass Pond in Winter.

Mid-Winter at Deep Portage

2009-02-16T07:56:00.000-08:00

A cold January went out with a whimper, as temps hit the mid-forties on the 31st. February has thus far been a mix of warm and cold, and we are hoping for new snow to freshen the ski trails. Nearly 100 people came out to make Winter Rendezvous 2009 a great success. Below are photos from the past few weeks at Deep Portage. We hope to see you soon!

Casey from Grey Eagle loves the DP Climbing Wall

A Grey Eagle "trials of life" team does their best Ruffed Grouse impression

Makenzie from Milaca takes home the champion's plaque at Winter Rendezvous

Deep Portage teacher Abby Pifer celebrates a nice perch at Lake Winnie

Winter Rendezvous Tomahawk action!

A happy Rendezvous crew shows off their score cards

January at Deep Portage

2009-01-22T13:41:00.000-08:00

It's a good thing to have snow....especially when the mercury really drops. The 2 feet of powder covering Deep Portage no doubt helped many animals survive the frigid temps, and it kept spirits high for snowshoeing and XC-skiing. January 12-16 saw temps of -18, -29, -21, -26, and -28, respectively. Ladies and Gentlemen, that is a cold snap. Students from Garfield Elementary (Brainerd) and Willow Lane Elementary (White Bear Lake) braved the icy weather, and didn't miss a beat. This week, Jan. 18-24, we have groups in from Menahga, Rockford, and Howard Lake/Waverly/Winsted. Pictured below is the Rockford student council group snowshoeing in the south bog, and a happy group from Menahga on departure day. Best wishes for the New Year!

December at Deep Portage

2008-12-18T07:49:00.000-08:00

Happy Holidays! The winter storm that occurred last weekend left us with 10 inches of fresh powder. Let the ski season begin! The cold front that arrived behind the snow was impressive as well. We hit -24 on Tuesday morning. The past several weeks have been full of great groups and good times. Young folks and adults from Blackduck, Lake Park-Audubon, Milaca, Pequot Lakes, and Lincoln Elementary (Alexandria) have all visited Deep Portage recently. Pictured below are a group of intrepid skiers from Lincoln, and a successful Charlie-to-Base land navigation group from Lake Park-Audubon. All the best from the crew at Deep Portage!

November at Deep Portage

2008-11-19T09:23:00.000-08:00

Those cold November winds have begun to frequent the Deep Portage woods, so we've kept the fireplaces crackling and made ready our winter gear. The teaching staff took advantage of a break in the schedule to clean and perform regular maintenance on the climbing wall (see photo below). This past week we hosted another fantastic group from Red Lake.....always a highlight of the fall season. Pictured below are a few group shots from their visit. The blaze-orange jerseys are always worn by students that visit Deep Portage during deer season. Happy Holidays to everyone! We hope to see you on the trails!

October at Deep Portage

2008-10-29T08:17:00.000-07:00

October is arguably the most beautiful month of the year at Deep Portage, and it is also one of our busiest. The month starts with the wonder of fall colors, and ends with the distinct feeling of impending winter. The photos below are from a mid-month visit by Cuyuna Range (Crosby-Ironton), and a late-month visit by Chaska Middle School. Happy Halloween everybody!

Chaska tests its skill with the Rabbit Sticks

Chaska students on Charlie to Base

Birds class with Cuyuna Range (look at the little Junco!)

Cuyuna Range goes orienteering

Fall Colors at Deep Portage

Mid-September at Deep Portage

2008-09-26T11:05:00.000-07:00

Warm weather and great kids (of all ages) have made September a joy thus far. Today we said goodbye to two wonderful groups, Royalton and Baudette, and started preparations for next week, when we'll see Rockford, Eagle Point (Oakdale), and Nisswa. Below are images from the Royalton and Baudette visits. The leaves are starting to approach peak color levels, and the cold front expected this weekend should speed things up a bit. Come out and peep the brilliant hues of autumn!

Linda Martin and some of her Royaltan students

Deep Portage teacher Casey Stanley and some new friends from Royalton

Students from Baudette enjoy the Tree-top Tower

Baudette students meet a White Pine on "Search for the Big Nine"

Start of School Year 2008-2009

2008-09-11T07:13:00.000-07:00

Here we go! Another successful and safe summer season has passed, and autumn is in the air. School year staff training started on September 2nd. This season we have 4 new teaching staff, and 4 returning. Sage Academy was welcomed on the 9th...first school of the new year! Below are images from staff training and the Sage Academy visit. See you soon!

Sage Academy Seniors learn how to throw the Atl-Atl in Pioneer Olympics
Sage Academy students get ready for a canoe session on Bass Pond

Deep Portage Staff looking for birds on Walker Bay

Deep Portage Teaching Staff 2008-2009 (honestly Ian, look at the camera)

Ian leads the staff in a New Games activity
Clare, Casey, Abby and Jonna in their survival shelter

July at Deep Portage

2008-07-15T13:56:00.000-07:00

The summer season is going great! Great campers, great staff, and just enough stormy weather to help us appreciate the many beautiful days we've had. Since our last post we've seen sessions of Aquatics Camp, Fishing Camp, Young Women in Science, and Forkhorn II, as well as the second of our FFA weeks. Check through the photos below to get a feel for the action at Deep Portage Summer Camp. You'll see Aquatics campers learning how to trap and census fish populations in Big Deep Lake, Fishing Campers hauling in lunkers, Young Women in Science talking forestry at the Tree Top Tower, and Forkhorn II campers perfecting their archery skills. The weather is heating up, so try to stay cool!

All the best from everyone at Deep Portage!

Summer in Full Swing at DPLC

2008-06-27T11:43:00.000-07:00

Two sessions of Forkhorn I camp and one week of FFA........now we're cooking! Minnesota has a newly trained bunch of safe and ethical hunters ready for deer season this year, and the DP staff has been hard at work to ensure a fun and educational visit for all campers. The photos below are from the Forkhorn I sessions, June 9-20. Best wishes from all of us at Deep Portage!

Early June at DPLC

2008-06-02T10:55:00.000-07:00

Summertime! June 1st hit 80 degrees at Deep Portage, and the summer staff have arrived ready for training. During the last week of school we hosted Lino Lakes Elementary, Washington Magnet Middle School (St. Paul), St. Tim's (Maple Lake), Sacred Heart (East Grand Forks), and Northland Elementary (Longville-Remer). Camp started with the first session of Forkhorn 1 on June 8th. The photo above shows camp director Casey Stanley and summer intern Jon Loftis (right) with two intrepid forkhorn campers. This summer we are joined by a diverse group of staff, including folks from The Netherlands, Czech Republic, and New Zealand. The Deep Portage Woods are alive with birds and wildflowers! See you on the trails!

Week of May 11

2008-05-19T07:15:00.000-07:00

The last two weeks of the school year have arrived. The leaves are finally popping out, and Morels (see photo below) are showing up as well, despite the cool temps. Two schools from Edina, Highland CP and Highland Discovery, as well as Kimball Elementary, St. Bernard (Thief River Falls), and Cromwell-Wright, all visited Deep Portage during the past week. Pictured above is Deep Portage instructor Anne Frie with Highland CP 1st grader, Solie!

Week of May 5th

2008-05-08T07:47:00.001-07:00

The month of May is always a wonder! Mornings are enhanced by the songs of returning birds, and evening hikes echo with the sound of frogs calling from ephemeral wetlands. The Deep Portage Whip-poor-will has even returned to keep everyone at the range awake throughout the night. This week we hosted Carver Elementary (Maplewood) and the third of our great groups from Sauk Rapids/Rice Middle School. The photo above shows several confident young women from Carver getting ready for the challenge of Charlie to Base, led by Deep Portage Instructor Ian Andruss. Only two more weeks left in the 07/08 school year, and we are busy getting set for another wonderful summer camp season. Come out and see us if you're in the area!

Weeks of 4/13 and 4/20

2008-04-29T09:16:00.000-07:00

The snow from 4/10 had just about melted away before a fresh 10 inches fell on 4/25. Let's just say that we need the moisture, and that snowfall in late April is "unique", and "memorable". The wild weather has had very little effect on the quantity, quality, or enthusiasm of the visiting groups over the past few weeks, and spring birds and buds are returning despite the challenges. Baxter Elementary, Sauk Rapids-Rice, the U of M Hydrologists, and the Quilters Basket folks all enjoyed their visits to Deep Portage. The photo above is from the Sauk Rapids-Rice Middle School visit, and shows Deep Portage Educator Clare Croteau and some of her fine students getting ready to embark on the day's activities. We love to see those smiles!

Week of April 6th

2008-04-11T11:16:00.000-07:00

Everyone arrived safely on Monday, in spite of the snow. Central Minnesota Christian High School (Prinsburg) and Lindbergh Elementary (Little Falls) enjoyed the snowy conditions, strapping on snowshoes when necessary. The weather was beautiful on Tuesday and Wednesday, although news of the next storm was beginning to trickle in. Lincoln Elementary and Dr. SG Knight Elementary (both from Little Falls) arrived on Wednesday afternoon. They had a great visit, but decided to leave on Thursday evening to avoid the impending weather......a good move, too, considering Little Falls got a foot of snow that night and school was canceled for Friday! The photo above shows DP staff Mike Libsch and Nova Clark helping to load up the buses as the storm's first flakes begin falling. See below for a nice pic of Cass County Isaac Walton League members Dorothy Harrington and Don Hoppe . Their monthly meeting was Thursday evening. Deep Portage seems to have avoided the brunt of the latest system, although more snow may come. As of 1:30 on Friday we have received 4 inches of fresh "concrete". Unfortunately the Kelly Joe Phelps concert had to be postponed due to weather, and is tentatively rescheduled for August 30th. Keep your chins up, Spring is on the way!

SNOW!!!!

2008-04-07T09:40:00.000-07:00

A whopper of an April storm spun through the area on Sunday, April 6th, depositing 17 inches of snow at Deep Portage. Undaunted, both Central Minnesota Christian High School (Prinsburg) and Lindbergh Elementary (Little Falls) are on their way. Once the DP driveway is plowed all will return to normal.........kind of. April skiing anyone? Check out the photos! We're buried!

Week of 3/30

2008-04-07T09:31:00.000-07:00

The first week in April was a beauty! Warm temps and singing birds greeted our schools, and everyone had a great time. Challenger Elementary (Thief River Falls), Ambassador Prep (St. Paul), Pioneer Elementary (Pierz), Cass Lake Ecology Club, New Beginnings (Pine River), and Park Rapids Middle School all visited Deep Portage. Kenny Beauchene, a longtime Challenger Elementary staff member, is pictured above with a few of his students. He's been bringing kids from Thief River Falls to Deep Portage for 18 years!

Week of 3/16

2008-03-19T10:59:00.000-07:00

The Yellow and Orange teams from Sandburg Middle School arrived on Monday. Conditions were a bit icy, but the students had fantastic personality and made the most of their visit. Spring Break starts on Wednesday, and most of the DP teaching staff is off for a recharge before the busy months of April and May. The photo this week is of two Sandburg Educators, Anne Pilarski and Andy Luu. Both have been organizing trips to Deep Portage for many years, and we couldn't do it without them. It is as a result of their hard work and dedication that Sandburg students arrive at our school each spring, and we thank them (and all of our visiting teachers) for their efforts. Happy Easter and Happy Equinox!

Week of 3/9

2008-03-14T10:38:00.000-07:00

Spring is in the air! 4 straight days over 40 degrees this week, and although it put a damper on the skiing, the warm breezes put everyone in a great mood. Our international group from Dusseldorf, Germany stayed over the weekend and took an off-site trip to the Mississippi headwaters at Itasca State Park. The school week was busy with two fantastic groups from Sandburg Middle School. Check out the satisfied faces on the bus on departure day (see photo).....the raised hands are in response to the question "who had fun this week?!"

Phenology this week:

Chipmunk seen on 3/13, Woodchuck on 3/14
Red Crossbills on Nature Center Drive (photo below)
First spring rain on Wednesday, 3/12
Barred Owls calling actively
21 inches of ice on Bass Pond
Many local river openings and flowages are melting out...the Ducks can't be far behind!

Weeks of 2/24 and 3/2

2008-03-04T11:10:00.000-08:00

Late season skiing at its best! We've had a few mild days here and there, but winter isn't letting go just yet. The ski trails are in great shape, and last week and this week will see over 350 students from Plymouth and Princeton take to the tracks. Princeton was here 2/25 to 2/27, and the next three groups are all from Plymouth. Check out the "I'll take on anything" attitude of the Plymouth student in this week's photo......even lunch clean-up in the dining hall is a good time! Temps this week are supposed to fall back to the single digits and below zero, but hey, spring doesn't start until the equinox.....March on!

Week of 2/17

2008-02-22T06:51:00.000-08:00

Welcome! Cold temperatures returned in a big way after a mild weekend. Starting Tuesday morning with -25, Wednesday -26, and Thursday -19......that is a trio of arctic mornings for sure. See photo below if you're curious what happens to hot (nearly boiling) water when it is thrown in the air at -26. This week we hosted the Walker 4th grade on Tuesday and FAIR Middle School (Crystal) and St. Joseph's Lab School (St. Joseph) Wed-Fri. The kids from FAIR and St. Joseph's had a great look at the lunar eclipse (see photo) on Wednesday night, and generally enjoyed the sunny weather and great ski trails.

This winter has truly been a return to the cold winters of days gone by. December 2007 averaged a whopping 12 degrees colder than 2006, January 2008 was 5 degrees colder than 2007, and February has thus far averaged 2 degrees colder than last year (data provided by Deep Portage Weather Station). In total we have experienced 12 days that hit -20 or lower in Dec.-Feb. 2008, compared to 2 days of -20 in the same time period last year. You may remember that last year was a mild winter, and that nearly all the truly cold weather we saw occurred during an impressive cold front in the first two weeks of February. See you next week!

Week of 2/10

2008-02-15T09:14:00.000-08:00

Let it Snow! 4 inches of fresh powder fell Wednesday night, and the ski trails are looking great! This past week started off with a DNR Ecological Services Conference on Monday and Tuesday. By Tuesday afternoon the adults had left and 110 wonderful young people arrived from Carlos-Garfield-Miltona (plus their wonderful teachers and chaperones of course). Garfield teacher Jan Nelson always puts a special stamp on the visit with his Friday morning awards ceremony (see photo). This weekend we have a Family Weekend group plus the annual Cass Lake Family Day on Saturday.

Phenology this week:

-we hit -20 three times this week!
-Red Crossbills have been spotted in the main building area
-4 inches of snow on Wednesday night
-Wolf tracks seen near the bog

Don't let the ski season pass you by without visiting the DP trails! Cheers until next week.

Week of February 3rd

2008-02-07T07:46:00.000-08:00

Warmer weather has returned....for the moment. Schools visiting this week include Highland C.P., Mounds Park Academy, and Burroughs Elementary School. Note the nice perch caught by a Highland student on Monday! On Saturday and Sunday we'll be hosting a Teacher-Appreciation weekend for Rockford. Our next scheduled Saturday Public Program will be on March 1st, and will consist of a naturalist-led snowshoe hike through the Martha Sweatt-Reed Forest Preserve.

Deep Portage Phenology for this week:

Ruffed Grouse tracks along the Range Road
Woodpecker drumming is picking up intensity
22 inches of ice on Bass Pond
half inch of snow on Sunday night was the first measurable snow since late December

The ski trails are still in good shape, so come on out this weekend and enjoy Deep Portage!

Week of 1/27

2008-01-31T10:25:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the Deep Portage Learning Center Blog! Please visit often to keep up on happenings at our school, including programs, school visits, phenology, and recent photographs. This week started with warm southerly breezes, but quickly went subzero. Temperatures dropped from a high of 37 on Monday afternoon to a low of -19 by Tuesday evening. Princeton Middle School was here for the cold snap, and their enthusiasm was not deterred by the chill winds. Skiing, Bass Pond in Winter, Winter Survival, Climbing Wall and more kept the 6th grade busy and smiling for the whole visit. We look forward to a visit by the second half of Princeton Middle School in late February. That's all for now.....come see us in the North Woods!