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More Pics Of Our 49th State

By JIM NIGRO

Most of these photos are scenic Alaska shots, while others depict a way of life totally foreign to the rest of North America. Taking pictures proved far easier than prospecting for gold! 

Pioneer Peak

Sitka Spruce grove in the Matanuska Valley

That white mass you see between the horizon and the cloud is Mt. McKinley, aka Denali. We were 80 miles down the highway from Denali Park when I snapped the photo.

Full moon at midnight over Pete's Creek....the Summer Solstice, June 21, 1997

Stunted birch and spruce trees.

Part of a "fish wheel" under construction. When completed, the fish wheel  will be used just like a river boat's paddle wheel, but instead of providing locomotion, it seines migrating salmon.

It's 1am and that is the Alaska pipeline near Coldfoot in the Artic Circle.

 

Karen Miconi

Once again, great pics Jimmy. You have a very creative eye when it comes to photography. Tell me, was this area logged off years ago? Is that the reason the trees are stunted, and sparce? Or, is it because of the daylight and darkness patterns?
Mike and I have always wanted to visit Alaska. Its so Vast and Wild. Do you pack heat when you go? I know when my father visited The Algonquin Park, the bears were hungry and broke into the back of his truck. They had quite a time eating the food and tearing apart the papertowels, and stuff. Him and his buddies watched them from afar and had a laugh. He loves it there, its a Beautiful Park as well.

We checked out the Oatka Creek Sunday, and yes there were guys fishing. One gentleman, said he caught one nice trout, but it was still too slow, and cold.
A couple more weeks and its on Jim!! The poles are ready, and so am I! Theres some hungry Pikaro's and Bass out there. Cant Wait. First place we are headed, is my secret pond we call (The Great Georgeon).
Happy Fishing

Mar 10, 2010, 9:18am Permalink
DOUGLAS MCCLURG

Thanks again for sharing...If you ever run out of photos to share..I would make a small donation towards a fund to send you on another trip..."Keep em Coming"

Mar 10, 2010, 10:06am Permalink
JIM NIGRO

Karen,
Thanks for your comments. In regards to the trees, your question is a good one. I saw no signs of logging in this specific area. Trees may be stunted from year-round exposure to the elements - lack of wind protection so to speak. As far as the light/dark theory...though the growing season is short, 24 hrs of daylight at that time enables growers to produce some good crops. I've heard reports of cabbages weighing close to 50lbs! Also saw a plenty of lush rhubarb up there.

We did carry firearms, a high powered rifle and a .44 mag. handgun, but never had to use them.

P.S....You crack me up!....Pikaroos!!! The northerns should be heading for the spawning beds real soon. Afterward,I have no doubt they'll be ready to "smash the spoons"

Doug - thanks, glad you liked the pics! And thanks for your offer. My son-in-law and I keep pestering our wives to fill the change jars a bit quicker....we're anxious to do another skin-diving adventure in Abaco.

Mar 10, 2010, 11:49am Permalink

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