Kip’s Comments - February 16, 2026

A Day of Exploring and Yet Another Indicator of Spring

With temperatures unseasonably mild, I spent the day exploring in Northeast Iowa. One stop was to hike more of Coldwater Creek. I carried only my camera. No trout were caught in the making of these photos!

Coldwater Creek - Image 1064033

Coldwater Creek - Image 1064051

Coldwater Creek - Image 1064069

Coldwater Creek - Image 1064080

After Coldwater Creek I checked out a couple of other “remote” areas before stopping for a bit at Dunning Springs. At Dunning Springs I shot a number of images. Rather than posting them all here, I am going to feature just one photo and encourage you to check out this video to see more. The Beauty of Dunning Springs Video

Dunning Springs - Image 1064156

Today’s indicator of the nearing end of winter was a pair of hooded mergansers. Their location did not make for a clear photo, but you can easily see we have a pair in the area. I hope they are not here too early. It is only the middle of February!

Hooded Mergansers - Image 1064292