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Out & About

Wolves and other top-of-the-line predators have been linked to creating healthy ecosystems from top to bottom. (File Associated Press / The Spokesman-Review)
Wolves and other top-of-the-line predators have been linked to creating healthy ecosystems from top to bottom. (File Associated Press / The Spokesman-Review)

Drawdowns begin at lakes

OUTFLOW – Avista Utilities and the Corps of Engineers are beginning fall drawdowns that change the look of the lakes and rivers downstream.

•Lake Coeur d’Alene’s annual drawdown began Tuesday to gradually take the summer level of 2,128 feet down to a winter level of 2,122 feet by the end of December. Anglers are noticing a slightly higher and more fluctuating flow below Post Falls Dam in the Spokane River.’

•Priest Lake’s drawdown begins in the middle of October, marking the unofficial beginning of the paddling season on the Priest River. Generally too low for canoes during the summer season, Priest River takes on new life as flows are increased.

Priest Lake is lowered relatively quickly by 3 feet to its winter level by early November.

•Lake Pend Oreille’s slow drawdown begins this week aiming to a winter level that has not been set.

Movie tracks role of predators

OUTSEE – A documentary film featuring the role of wolves and other carnivores will be presented at 7 p.m. Tuesday at Gonzaga University’s Cataldo Hall. Admission is free.

Narrated by Peter Coyote, “Lords of Nature: Life in a Land of Great Predators,” links healthy ecosystems with a full range of predators.

The filmmakers also investigate a non-lethal wolf control project in Sawtooth National Forest.

A panel discussion with audience involvement will follow the screening.

Info: www.lordsofnature.org/

Going stoveless

OUTEAT – Sometimes the lightest and most hassle-free eating option for backpackers involves menus that don’t require a stove.

For example, couscous is precooked pasta that requires rehydration but no cooking. Add a foil-pouch of teriyaki salmon (available where tuna is sold in supermarkets) and you have a satisfying meal.