6.6mm of precipitation this week (some as snow), but the strong winds at the end of the week negated any moisture benefits from the rain that fell earlier. Water basin remains fairly high, although Lower Black Sturgeon did fall 1.5” this week. This weekend is the traditional opening of cottages for seasonal residents, and docks are being put in, but boat activity on the lake was nearly non-existent, due to cold and windy conditions. Forest fire hazard has been rated as low. Weather is wet and cold this weekend, and forecasted to continue for the next few days with frost warnings, so garden planting has been put on hold. Rhubarb is up, but other perennials are slow to emerge. Birch and poplar have flowered and are dropping. No budding on conifers yet. Sparse grass on newly seeded septic field is finally appearing. Ticks are out, no mosquitos yet. Hummingbirds have arrived. A mangy bear yearling stayed for a few days, mostly grazing the lawn. More rain is needed to kick start this very slow start to spring.