Treepedo – A Logging Tool That’s Ideal for Hunters, Campers, and Paddlers

Sometimes you have to think outside the box and every once in a while, even in my foggy world, the lights come on. Recently I met Thomas Amorium, the inventor of a device called Treepedo. In short this is a neat little gadget intended for use by loggers and tree removal experts to throw a messenger line that is used to pull a rope into the tree to isolate tree branches for safe removal or to direct a falling tree when working in tight quarters. It was really cool and I thought that at least it would be worth a mention to some of my friends that own large woodlots; but what has this got to do with our outdoors adventures?

First let me tell you what this device does and why it is unique. In order to tie off a tree or a limb in a given direction a light line (messenger) is attached to a weight (typically a bag filled with toxic lead shot), the weight is then tossed into the crown of the tree and maneuvered into position to obtain the desired pull angle. A heavier rope is then attached to the messenger line, pulled back through the crown, and then anchored. If you're like me the wheels are already turning.

The problem with the traditional method is that it can be time consuming and frustrating. The lead filled bags get stuck in the branches or snag and break, spilling their lead shot contents onto the ground. Treepedo is a three part, aerodynamic, environmentally friendly device that easily worms its way through tree branches and virtually never gets hung up. It's easy to see because of the bright stainless steel finish and, in the rare instance that it does break off, it is easy to find and non toxic to the environment.

Although this was really cool my interest stopped at the purpose it was designed for; then the lights came on! Being one that's always on the lookout for new gadgets that can potentially add to my enjoyment of the outdoors I began to see new applications.

Hunters, have you ever struggled to find a secure and safe way of hoisting your tree stand, or tried to lasso a branch to hoist up a deer to keep it safe from varmints until the next morning?

Campers and paddlers, have you ever gazed longingly at that tree branch 30' off the ground and thought "If only I could get a rope around that branch to keep my food away from animals?"

Well Treepedo just might be the answer to your prayers. It's small enough, and light enough, to pack along on any hunting, camping, or paddling trip. It's easy to use and will allow you to safely, accurately, and easily secure a rope exactly where you want it.

For full details check out www.ropearmour.com
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©2010 Lloyd Fridenburg – All rights reserved click here for copyright permissions

 

3 Safe and Enjoyable Southern Ontario Flat-water Daytrips

Most newcomers to paddling in Southern Ontario need an opportunity to get familiar with their new craft, and hone their expertise on sheltered flat-water before tackling rivers or the challenges of whitewater.

Here are three of my favorite locations that will provide both sheltered flat-water and a wonderful opportunity to view nesting waterfowl, aquatic life, and sneak up on a host of animals that depend on wetlands.

1. Hullett Marsh, just outside the town of Clinton, is a wonderful place to do some flat water paddling and enjoy some great nature viewing at the same time. There are several access points and some great trails if you want to stretch your legs. 
   

   
    

2. Long Point is a great area to explore, but I don't advise heading beyond the shelter of the mashes and into the inner bay. The waters can become treacherous quickly.  I suggest heading into the protected part of the marsh by heading upstream on Big Creek which can be accessed from the causeway or from the bridge on County Rd. 42 (Lakeshore).  If you're coming through Port Rowan follow the signs for Port Burwell and stop at the first bridge and head downstream.
   
3. Luther Marsh is located near the headwaters of the Grand River near the towns or Orangeville and Grand Valley. Non-motorized water craft including canoes, kayaks and rowboats are permitted on the marsh between July 31 and Sept. 1, after a canoe access permit and registration has been completed. A canoe launch is at the main gate. No canoe permit is required after September 1st. There are three canoe launches, however two are not accessible when the road is closed, but they may be used for a rest or lunch stop. The north edge of the lake has restricted access to protect a wildlife sanctuary and heronry and is marked with orange markers.
   

There are a host of other flat water destinations available in Southern Ontario but these are three of my personal favorites and all are within easy reach of Southern Ontario's most populated areas. One bonus of paddling in these protected wetlands is that you don't need to arrange for a downstream pickup or take two vehicles.

Here are a few tips to enhance the enjoyment of your flat-water paddling adventure:

• Wear your life jacket!
  
• No alcohol; but do take plenty of liquid refreshment on a hot day.
  
• Pack a lunch or snacks…make a day of it and don't rush.
  
• Watch the weather. If rain or, especially thunder storms are imminent you might want to shoot for another day.
  
• Wear a hat that will shade your face and neck. And don't forget the sunscreen and packing some insect repellent might be a good idea.
  
• Did I mention Wear your Lifejacket?
  
• Don't forget your camera but keep it in a waterproof case or strong plastic bag.
  
• Be sure someone knows where you're going and when you plan to be back. Take your cell phone but keep it in a waterproof container or plastic bag.
  

Enjoy your time on the water this summer and don't forget to leave a comment on our paddling blog and share your own Southern Ontario flat-water adventures.

©2010 Lloyd Fridenburg – All rights reserved click here for copyright permissions

 

Don’t Put That in Your Mouth

There is simply no better gift that you can give your child than to share Southern Ontario's great outdoors. Even infants will love the chance to explore new territory and getting dirty is a bonus. But parents of toddlers and infants also need to be vigilant to ensure that children are safe in their surroundings.

This can be a difficult task even at home, but on the trail or in the bush it is essential. Of course there are the obvious dangers that can result in scrapes, bruises, or sprains but there are also those that can result in severe illness or even death. Many of these dangers are hidden under the guise of beautiful plants or insects. You as a responsible parent need to take the time to educate yourself about the hazards in your area and what to do about them.

Mosquitoes can transmit West Nile Virus; ticks can transmit Lyme Disease; and the venom from wasps, bees and hornets can cause a life threatening allergic reaction, especially if multiple stings are inflicted. Plants to watch out for include daisy, periwinkle, poison ivy, poison oak, nightshade, morning glory, some varieties of mushroom, arrowhead, and milkweed. Some of these plants – or parts of them – are edible at certain times of the year and some are even medicinal, in the correct proportions, but unless you are an expert it is best to avoid them all together.

Here are a few tips to help keep your kids safe:

• If they have eaten any form of vegetation remove any pieces from their mouth and try to identify it.
  
• If you are able to identify it and it is amongst the poisonous varieties seek medical attention as soon as possible, or call the Ontario Poison Centre at 1-800-268-9017.
  
• If you can't identify it or even if it is something you believe to be harmless watch the child closely for several hours so see if any symptoms arise. Symptoms can include being lethargic, trouble breathing, fever, loss of appetite, and vomiting. Don't hesitate to call the Ontario Poison Centre, they can tell what symptoms to watch for.
  
• Know the risk category of the region for things like Lyme Disease and West Nile Virus. There is actually a very low risk of contracting one of these diseases and an even lower risk of serious symptoms developing, but know the symptoms. Take precautions, but don't live in fear of mosquitoes and ticks.
  
• If your child is stung by a bee, wasp, or hornet watch closely for any signs of a reaction. In the event of multiple stings or if symptoms arise, seek medical assistance immediately! For more information read the article titled Bees in the Bush on the Southern Ontario Outdoors camping blog dated June 2009.
  

"Knowledge is Power"! It simply isn't practical to think that you can protect your kids from all things that may be harmful, but a bit of research will help you keep them safe and happy in our great Southern Ontario Outdoors.

©2010 Lloyd Fridenburg – All rights reserved click here for copyright permissions