Dateline: 13 December 2021
As of Monday afternoon, the bulk of Presque Isle State Park remained closed due to flooding and damage from the storm the previous Saturday. Despite sunny weather on Sunday, BirdingPI.com management decided against dispatching a team, “for the sake of public safety.” Venturing forth today, our reporters witnessed localized but widespread flooding, plus several downed trees (e.g., by the bike rental place), which crews were actively working on clearing. The road and bike trail were closed at the turn for West Pier/marina.
From the parking lot by West Pier, numerous ’emergency’ vehicles (e.g., OTV’s, semi’s, front-end loaders) were witnessed along the road across the bay. (Although it could have been related to the ongoing sewer/water supply line installation project.)
Meanwhile, there’s always room for bird photography. Avian sightings on Marina Lake (i.e., by West Pier) included Ring-billed Gulls, Mallards, Mergansers, GBH, Buffleheads, etc. The highlight: a flock of Buffleheads first landing on Marina Lake and, being spooked (source undetermined), immediately departing.
Let’s hope that the park is fully re-opened soon!