DRIVING IN.      The first round of snow on the leading edge of the low has fallen, and we brace to see what comes in on strong north winds that will likely make much of today a football fest for many.  We check the weather map and one for ANS along with some tree science for upland hunters in today’s Outdoors Roundup.

Featured Photo:  On the Road Again.  A drive down a gravel road sees the first clouds of the storm system obscure the sun, as frost from the holiday week’s fog  still clings to the trees. Simonson Photo.

WEATHER (Bismarck Forecast):
Today:  Sun 12/29 – Blustery – Hi 19, Lo 15, Wind N@25, G40, 4” Snow
Tomorrow: Mon 12/30 – Still Windy – Hi 21, Lo 17, Wind N@20, G30, 1” Snow

SOLUNAR (Bismarck Times):

Sunrise        Sunset
8:27AM        5:02PM

Moonrise         Moonset          Overhead       Underfoot
11:04AM         8:40PM           3:49PM            3:25AM

Moon Phase:  Waxing Crescent (11% Full)

EDGE HOUR:    10:30-11:30AM.  Before the snow gets too bad get out and close out your morning with moonrise in our Edge Hour.

DAY RATING:

OUTDOORS ROUNDUP:

SWIRLING.  The strong low pressure track has set up and more than 10 inches of snow is forecasted for southeastern North Dakota with heavier amounts possible as the system shoots north and east. Loaded with moisture, expect the snow to be thick and heavy at times.

MOVEMENT MAP.  The U.S. Geological Service details the movement of aquatic nuisance species and their appearance in various waters throughout the country.  With maps for both zebra and quagga mussels, the agency looks to identify and keep an eye on the waters that are infested and

A PLACE CALLED ASPEN.  The Ruffed Grouse Society details the science of aspen trees, their benefits to thunderbirds and how they grow through a process of clonal shoots.  Of note, the largest living organism on the planet is a 100-acre colony of the same tree aged at around 80,000 years old!