This is the current Radar image of the front moving into our area. The image was taken at 2230 this date. The similarity between this front and the low pressure that recently passed over us is almost identical. Note the southerly end of this front is originating in the South Pacific, picking up a lot of strength from the warmer water conditions. The Anchor River reached bank level flood stage during the last front and has not receded since that time. Additional precipitation in the form of rain that has been received today and expected in the future could well maximize the volume that the Anchor River can withstand. No damage has been caused from recent "high water" conditions, however, the leaning tree over the river that was always in our way on my
favorite hole as posted a couple of days ago, is now gone and will be out of our way during the 2008 fishing season.
I was able to access the HITW this afternoon under severe storm conditions and minor flooding. Damage assessment is light, however, one might want to consider moving the Buffalo Wallow. Those who build at the bottom of a "drain gully" even if it is a designated trail during the summer months may want to consider the impact of drain water and mud slides. A small mud slide has occurred in the vicinity of the base of "Grannies Gully", perhaps a large enough berm has been created from the slide that it will protect the "wallow" from future water surges.
Although it is desirable to build a den with a deck in the trees for privacy, this location should also be reconsidered or at a minimum a retaining wall be built on the deck to keep debris from being deposited onto the deck area from the sloping hillsides. Although, the "big" rock that is now a deck decoration looks kinda of neat sitting on the deck. The irony of it is, I believe I remember someone trying to pry this rock out of the hillside to watch it roll down the slope and make a better sledding hill. Mother nature and a little water erosion had no problem with moving the rock. Minimal damage occurred, however, removal of the rock may be difficult. With the weight of the rock, the deck being tied into the den, it did lift the front of the den up high enough that one of the braces supporting the "bungalow bedroom suite" extending over the front is now disengaged from the camper.
The " Moose Wallow" winter roofing cover has been removed by high winds and tie down fatigue. No visable damage to the decking area with surprisingly little water flow through the area, it appears the majority of the water flow was diverted to the center of the bowl.
The 'fire pit gazebo" is in good shape, although it is surrounded by flood water, however, the contractor had the foresight to construct the foundation out of rock and concrete. Although the new installed gutter drains that are attached to the roof line of the gazebo appear to be working effectively, most likely would work even better is "downspouts" were installed.
The "Bear Den" has weathered well, no damage assessment noted with no standing water.
As soon as weather permits, salvage operations will commence on the "cook tent", although the structure remains intact, the front has been lifted by heavy winds and moved to the south approximately three feet with the rear of the structure remaining attached to the decking material. I have been assured by several friends that I can borrow one of their skiffs to gain access into the HITW to make needed repairs.
The "family tree" area is in very good shape, I see no great need to water the seeds in "Rose's Garden", they appear to be getting enough moisture.
Future plans, we may want to consider placing a rock and dirt dam at the base of "Grannies Gully" and tie it into the bluff to act as a reservoir during future run off periods as this is the main drainage area of the meadows on top of the bluff. As soon as weather and access permits, will forward pictures for those desiring to submit an insurance claim or submit applications for federal flood assistance. I have declared it as a minor disaster area so local, state, and federal funding may be available for those that desire to file a claim.
