Bottle Gentian
Those three days in the north country went fast. The weather was great, but we needed to begin or thoughts towards returning home this day.
Early in the morning while Laurie was preparing herself for the day, I ventured downslope to the Bennett’s Branch of the Sinnemahoning Creek. Most areas of areas I walked showed the distress from the lack of rain. the water was very low, and as the First Fork one could walk across the creek using exposed rocks. A few photos are included here.
Later, in the morning our departure led us through Medix Run. This creek was lower than I had even seen it. I hope holdover trout can survive. We stopped at the Shagger’s water Impoundment hoping to see some Ospreys and bald eagles, but the site was barren of the birds this day. 
Our trip towards home continued with time at Parker Dam State Park. Here we were prepared to do some hiking. Laurie became tired and elected to set on a park swing and read a book while I spent more time hiking. The trail I chose to explore had wetlands created by past Beaver activities. I saw some Brook trout.
I noticed a vivid blue partially hidden among the various wetland grasses. The blue was from a native wildflower known as the Bottle Gentian. (See photo above.)
The three days went fats and I was saddened to head towards home. Wildlife was abundantly viewed during these days. We saw plenty of Elk, Deer and three flocks of turkeys. We saw squirrels including Black squirrels. We saw two Ruffed Grouse, a rarity in these days. We saw a beautiful Bald eagle, Mergansers and Cormorants. I believe I had a glimpse of a Black Bear in the vegetation for I saw black for a moment.
ADDITIONAL PHOTOS
Parker Dam forest
Shagger’s Impoundment
Wetlands
Larry A. Smail's Blog 
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