Mountain Island Lake Dam - Cowans Ford Refuge

We've been experiencing some extraordinary weather here in the Carolinas' this winter/spring and today was simply gorgeous.  Had to get out and wanted to go see what the back side of the Dam at Mountain Island Lake looked like. 

Mountain Island Lake Dam - Catawba River

There were people fishing the banks of the Catawba although by the time I got there at almost 2PM the heat was chasing them away.  Didn't look like they'd caught any fish anyway.

After getting the shot at the Dam I decided to head over to a nearby wildlife refuge that I hadn't been to in almost 5 years.  I had never photographed the ponds at the end of the road so on this gorgeous day that became the plan.

Waterfowl refuge at the Cowans Ford wildlife refuge

The Cowans Ford Wildlife Refuge is basically a tract of land that has been set aside for wildlife.  No development!  In fact no people at all.  You can't leave the road and when you get to the viewing area, that's where you stay.  No wandering about.  No trails through the woods.  Nothing.  It's supposed to actually be a Wildlife Refuge! 

Much to my surprise I found that extensive logging was underway.  I saw several logging trucks coming and going from the site.  There was a sign espousing that they were removing a non-native species that had been planted for wood harvest some time in history but it also stated that the hardwoods would be left standing.  Acres and acres of barren land stood before me.  These loggers had not left a single tree standing!  I mean none!!  Greed overcomes conservation once again. Further proof that you simply can't fix stupid!  

Needless to say, this put a damper on my day so I simply came back home and while fuming decided to do a little writing.  We'll see what happens!

To better days!  Cheers..