
When it rains it pours . . . for nine full days. Out on hitch in the remote hills of Fish Creek, two crews braved the inclement weather. Through the morning and through the night, the precipitation continued to persist. Clothes stayed damped, boots stayed soaked, but spirits remained high.
Traveling over 60 miles, the crews surveyed the vast region of Lolo National Forest in hopes of targeting invasive species of plants terrorizing the local environment. Though the rain prevented the crews from utilizing their trusty spraypacks, and though the snowy peaks prevented travel to breathtaking summits, the groups continued to persevere and seek out all the work areas they could. The nightly campfires served crucial in keeping both gear and hearts warm and dry. The forest service gained invaluable information in our pinpointing of invasive plants, but most importantly, our heroes bonded through a difficult but truly jolly time.