TRR photo by Scott Rando This waterfall, about eight feet high, appears completely frozen. In reality, water is flowing, but underneath the frozen, visible portion. Small streams of water make it to the outside portion where some of the water instantly freezes, helping to fortify the structure. Rime ice, from freezing water vapor, further add to the frozen pillars of ice and aid in the formation of the cauliflower-shaped structures on the right side of the falls.

Nature’s frozen sculptures

Winter seems to be trying to make an impression, as we experience a series of weekly snow and ice storms followed by bitter cold northwest winds. A couple of weeks back, we had lows in the sub-zero range: -10 degrees and colder in most areas. These temperatures have been aiding in the formation of some interesting looking sculptures where water flows. In some cases, these works of art are more of a nuisance, the giant stalactites of ice that form on roof gutters being a good example.

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The fishing dog

Years ago I used to fish a beautiful little trout stream, the West Branch of the Croton, where it flows between West Branch Reservoir and Croton Falls Reservoir. Being self employed, I was able to steal away at times for a long lunch hour and do a little fishing. I would park my car up at the property of the Putnam County Fish & Game Association.

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Financial assistance for farmers

REGION—The National Resources Conservation Service is providing funding for organic producers and those currently in the certification process to implement soil and water conservation practices. Amounts given vary for each practice. Visit nrcs.usda.gov .

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