Something happened on the way to another long, dry season for the Missouri River System: Mother Nature smiled in her own quirky way, flooding the southern basin, spewing localized rainstorms and teasing us with mountain snowfall. As a result, moisture flowed into the river system.

By BRIAN GEHRING By BRIAN GEHRING Scott Hobbs remembers when there were boats lined up on both sides of Highway 200 in Pick City and his gas lanes were full. And that was before he turned the key to open his bait and tackle shop in the morning.

The state Game and Fish Department says curly leaf pondweed has been found in the McClusky Canal, near Lake Audubon. The invasive weed can cover the surface of water in the spring, interfering with boating, fishing and swimming.

Most hunters are aware of bird bands. Those most familiar are the metallic leg bands on ducks and geese. The band will typically include instructions for reporting identifying numbers or letters related to the organization doing the research.

The North Dakota Game and Fish Department is hosting family fishing days this summer on Saturdays and Wednesdays at the Outdoor Wildlife Learning Site located adjacent to the main office in Bismarck.