We're all anxious to get out on the ice this winter, but it's not worth taking the risk when the weather doesn't cooperate. Ice safety is no joke! Here is some information about judging ice conditions, being prepared to enjoy the winter season outside and what to do in an emergency. "Thick and blue, tried and true.  Thin and crispy, way too risky" Before stepping on the ice check for a bluish color and that it is at least 4-6 inches thick. Even if the weather has been below freezing for several days, don't guess about ice thickness.

After 42 years of service as a Recreational Safety Coordinator covering Washington and Hancock counties, Harland Hitchings will retire from the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife on January 3, 2015. During his years at IFW, Harland delivered safety education courses, and recruited and trained a large contingent of volunteer instructors while working with many sponsoring clubs and schools to ensure the availability of programs. One of Harland’s greatest interests over the years has been to oversee safety training at Greenland Point Center’s Conservation Education Program.

The 2015 Maine Birder Band is now available! Maine’s Birder band is instrumental in helping protect birds, conserve habitat and provide access for birders throughout the state.

[caption id="attachment_1191" align="alignleft" width="300"] Photo by Victor Morin[/caption] In only six years, the Heron Observation Network grew from 78 to 246 volunteer members! Just as Dr.