Well Dave,
We are not in a lack of precipitation, just not in the form of snow. 1 inch of rain is about = to 1 foot of snow. We have had some rain this winter.
There is a NWS (national weather service) flood advisory for Kalamazoo County. And that is probably due to melting snow.
One big problem could be if the Apple and Cherry Trees Blossom early and a Freeze follows. I love those dark Cherries, but they ain't cheap anymore.
As far as wildlife. We had a very good growing season last year, so there should have been enough food. The Cougars the MDNR denies releasing
should have had an impact on the elderly deer population. The deer I have seen were quite healthy and robust. We need to thin out the Squirrels. There are so many of them and they get into everything. My Dad has my .22 pellet gun, and he has been plinking them on a regular basis. Still, they are thick. I see half eaten Squirrels laying around. Don't know what is munching on them, but they are not starved.
We had it bad for two years with Yellow Jackets. They were everywhere! Kinda useless they are! I would rather work in the garden next to and with Bumble Bees. They don't freak out that bad.
I hate those darn Gnats! Don't inhale if you get into a swarm!
Nature knows how to take care of itself, and all will be well. It's been doing it for a while
