Page 94 - SOM Summer 2017

feature | lakes

View of Mt. Theilsen from Diamond Lake
(Stock Photo)

Only paddleboats are allowed on the lake, making it a great place matches in a container, candle or other fire starter material, space
to canoe or raft and enjoy the wildlife. blanket, garbage bag or waterproof poncho, knife, whistle, sig-
nal mirror, extra clothing/food/water, detailed map of the area,
About 10 miles up the road from Squaw Lakes is Applegate Lake, compass, flashlight, first aid kit, metal cup, 30’ nylon shroud line.
a long lake with several arms. The Applegate Recreation Area has Hopefully it all stays stowed. Leave a detailed trip plan with a
four camp parks nearby, two day-use swimming areas, and dry RV responsible person, including names and physical descriptions of
parking available. Hikers can take trails that follow the 17.5-mile your fellow travelers, and a description and license plate num-
shoreline. The 10-mph boat speed makes it a great place to slow bers of all vehicles. Go slow on forest roads for safety and out of
down and enjoy the scenery. On an outing with friends, Renee respect for others, the environment, and forest life.
and I went almost-kayaking. Not a new sport, just a great activity
cut short by thunder and lightning and rain. The campsites and “Be nice to each other,” the Ranger urges. Sounds basic, but tem-
store are operated seasonally. pers can flare. He invites people to ask the rangers questions
about how to do things, the history of an area, and conditions.
The Ranger feels people see a forest ranger as a person somewhere “We’re public servants first and foremost.”
between an adult Eagle Scout and a Canadian Mountie—a rug-
ged, independent individual who advocates for and protects both Fire safety is crucial. As Smokey Bear famously advises:
nature and man. “My emphasis is on public safety.” He underlines “Remember, only YOU can prevent forest fires.” Light campfires
the need to plan and the wherewithal to survive if disaster, major only if allowed or safe, put them out, and be prepared if one gets
or minor, strikes. Carry essential survival equipment: waterproof out of control.

92 www.southernoregonmagazine.com | summer 2017