While Carters Lake is as beautiful as ever, the trees along Doll Mountain Road leading to the recreation area really took a beating during last week’s storms.

After strong storms passed through our community this week, Harris Creek Drive was partially blocked by a fallen tree limb.

But not for long…

Thank you to our neighborhood volunteers for clearing the road.

Seeing fungus on a dead tree stump is a sign of the natural decay process. Along with insects and bacteria, fungus helps break down dead wood and returns its nutrients to the soil. Along with mosses, fungi is thriving during our rainy weather.

Leaving cars parked outside of your garage can be risky business in black bear country. Leaving car windows open and doors unlocked is an invitation to come on in and see if there’s anything good to eat.

Black bears are very strong with nimble claws and can easily open most unlocked car doors or peel down a window that’s open just an inch or two. But once inside, bears often have to chew and claw their way out. Why take chances? Stash, roll up and lock up whenever you or guests leave a car unattended.

They are also able to enter our screened porches. It is best to avoid the storage of edible items anywhere outside.