This week Eric, Robin and I hopped in the van bright and early and headed out to explore some cut-blocks near Bloodvein. Our journey was cut short due to some road repair and impassable clay ruts on the winter road. A quick change of plans led us on a lengthy excursion into the depths of the boreal forest on the east side of Lake Winnipeg.

I wasn’t too sure what to expect as we began heading into the second largest intact forest on the planet although I was already grateful I was wearing rubber boots as we squished through the first of many boggy areas. Needless to say that by the end of our adventure I was awe-struck! A challenging hike without a trail through the boreal forest further opened my eyes and heart in regard to how lucky we are in Manitoba.
 

Following moose trails through an east side marsh

Paloma laying in an enormous moose bed

In a sun following quest to reach Lake Winnipeg I experienced first hand the mysterious and immense nature of the forest. I was surrounded entirely by enumerable forms of life; blankets of moss covered the forest floor, while trees that were far older than myself reached up to the sky. Evidence of boreal creatures could be heard in the winds of the forest and could be seen on the surrounding branches, logs and lichens. It was stunning to see how interconnected the life cycles of all the species were. Decaying fallen trees played host to insects while a host of new life sprouted in the new opening where the sun’s rays touched the ground.

Carefully wading through a marsh was another testament to how well adapted boreal forest organisms are to their specific habitat. This was evident as we followed their trails in and around the marsh. Long moose legs would certainly have been far more practical for navigating the marsh as I found discovered when stumbling into a deep spot and was left with a soggy, wet boot.

After reaching the lake and meandering our way back to the road through untouched forest I felt an enhanced sense of purpose. I was inspired and awed by the network of life that I was briefly a part of. The thought that this forest stretched out untouched for 100 000 hectares was incredible. I wanted more Manitobans to feel what I did and become aware of the wonder that our province holds. Feeling, seeing and being there drove home the message that it was exceptionally important to protect the integrity of this forest.

- Paloma Corrin

Finally arrived on the shores of Lake Winnipeg

Robin with large wolf tracks on the road