Much needed snow finally came to our area early in the month over a couple of days. Unfortunately, it was closely followed by warm temperatures which brought rain. So, while our fields are smothered with a wonderful thick layer of white snow, its surface is covered with a thin layer of hard crusty ice. Walking and snowshoeing is tough going in these snow conditions and nearly impossible for most animals, domestic or wild. Several residents have been out in the surrounding forest, breaking down the trails with snowshoes and sleds. One pass with a sled or two passes with snow shoes make most trails passable – although somewhat challenging – for walkers and dogs. Sledders report good conditions on the trails in the hills around Lac des Roches although more snow is needed on the cut blocks for advanced play. Most lakes have slush on the ice from the heavy snowfall and mild temperatures. Logging traffic is still active in the entire area.