Page 58 - Flathead Beacon // 6.3.15

58 | JUNE 3, 2015 EXPLORE
By MOLLY PRIDDY of the Beacon
The Living Wetlands Interpretive Nature Trail opened to the public in 2013, allowing lo- cals and visitors to travel among the nearly 29- acre Averill Viking Creek Wetland Preserve.
Since then, wanderers on the mostly flat trail have learned about the history and sci- ence of the area, along with enjoying the unique beauty a wetland provides.
And on Saturday, June 6, anyone who par- ticipates in the fourth annual Wetland Work Day will get a greater understanding of what it takes to keep up such a trail, as well as a free lunch from the Whitefish Lake Institute, which owns and manages the wetlands and the trail.
The wetlands are an integral part of the ecosystem in the area, cleansing the water from Viking Creek, which eventually makes its way into Whitefish Lake and the city’s drinking wa- ter. Wetlands are also home to a diverse range of animals and birds, as well as a wide variety of plants.
Anyone who wants to participate in the Wetland Work Day on June 6 should bring boots, gloves, bug spray, and sunscreen. Also, since lunch is provided, participants are asked to RSVP at 406-862-4327.
The entrance to the trail is located behind the Viking Lodge, across Wisconsin Avenue from the main Lodge at Whitefish Lake build- ings.
For more information, visit www.whitefish- lake.org.
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BEACON FILE PHOTO
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