August 1st

While we were gone, the island's only sawmill was destroyed by a fire.  A slash pile that had been burning slowly for months burst into a conflagration that took the mill and most of the surrounding machinery.   Fire is not something that you'd think of in the rainforest but it's been so dry and hot that even the muskeg feels like dry and brittle.  

The mill was our source of firewood so campers will now have ti enjoy tge view without the comfoting glow of a fire.   Given the number of unattended campfires that Jack and I have discovered, its probably a good thing.

Without firewood to split and deliver, we've been able to focus on other items on our list. 

I cut brush at several sites along the Nemo Loop - the lack if rain has stunted the growth of the alder and grass but sections of it continue to grow, requiring me to cut the entire area for a more uniform look.  

I also dug out a rusted grill that was beginning to fall from the post.  The huge concrete base was more than I was willing to try to lift so I hid in the brush until reinforcements can arrive early next week.  

There is a huge hemlock tree that is beginning to lean over a popular swimming area - yes, people do swim outdoors here in Alaska - mostly young kids  and over-served adults but there are people who'll willingly subject themselves to frigid water under cloudy skies.  I'm hoping that we get to drop this hemlock before we leave as the impact will be incredible.  

We spent the evenings relaxing at the site, enjoying Janet's last couple of nights with us.