Natural History Wanderings

Oregon Wildflowers has a new report for Dog Mountain in the Columbia River Gorge

Many wildflowers are in bloom, both in the forest and meadows. The balsamroot at the lower viewpoint (app 1600 feet) is profuse but past peak. The balsamroot in the higher elevation meadows (between Puppy Point and the summit) is peaking now. In addition to the URL above, visit the Facebook group for other Dog Mountain photos and reports.

CAVEAT: As always, the poison oak (Toxicodendron diversilobum) is blooming profusely at lower elevation of both the Dog Mountain and Augspurger trails. If you are using the Dog Mountain trail, stay on the trail during the initial switchbacks (to the `More/Most Difficult` trail junction). Make sure that you know how to identify it!

See photos at https://www.facebook.com/groups/oregonwildflowers/permalink/465189940343332/ ( You must be a member of this group to view it)