This hitch took the team to the Fillmore District of Fishlake National Forest. We set up camp at the lovely Maple Grove campground next to a bubbling creek at the base of red cliffs. We then hit the field in the Sawmill wildfire area. Plots were pleasant enough despite difficulties finding access roads through private land.
Day two was a bit more of a brutal hike in the Amos wildfire area. Steep slopes over uneven terrain proved challenging for both groups. Things took a turn as Michael had increasing trouble breathing and a trip to the hospital revealed an unfortunate case of pneumonia.
Fortunate for us, agency contact and fire ecologist Linda Chappell graciously opened up her house to the team providing a comfortable place for Michael to rest as the team headed back into the field. Everyone greatly enjoyed the extra time spent with Linda, her dogs, Jett and Diablo, as well as Gato the cat. Linda is truly a wealth of information in regards to land management and dutch oven cooking.
Plots remained steep but rewarding with amazing views. Due to the shortage of folks and rugged terrain we wrapped up the Sawmill area but have unfinished business in Amos. We will thus be returning to the area this fall.
The team headed back to base out of good ole Duck Creek bunkhouse for the remainder of the hitch and delved into the School Wash preburn area. Plots went by a bit more quickly despite the many Ponderosa Pines to count. Returning home each evening was quite the luxury. Michael is on his way to a full recovery and excited to rejoin the team in the field next hitch.
