Spring is still early in Umtanum Canyon: it's barely green and the creek is high. A big difference since last year is the number of logs that have been dropped along the creek to enhance habitat for native fish species (link below). As a side benefit, these logs also enhance creek-crossing opportunities for hikers.
The canyon was mostly quiet, but even on a quiet day it's birdy: soaring male Northern harriers, American kestrels, and lots of red-tailed hawks and turkey vultures. Say's phoebe was a nice surprise. Two active osprey nests along Canyon Road. We also saw two Western gray squirrels as well as extensive clearcutting by beavers and a new dam nearby.
Balsamroot is just beginning to bloom.
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