Northology Adventures May 2023

MOORE EXPO #4

A look back from the eyes of attendees, vendors and Storytellers

LIGHT POLLUTION

Hey, buddy, turn that headlamp off when you're talking to me

NORTHOLOGY ADVENTURES

FOR THIS LAND

Rome and Lo set off to roam the country after winning a unique competition

MAY 2023

ISSUE 5 VOLUME 4

IN THIS ISSUE LET ME SEE THE STARS Light pollution & mitigation at camp

INDUSTRY NEWS Midland and Tread Lightly! team up

4 TOP TEN AT MOORE All Things Overlanding gives us the scoop

Wit the MOORE Expo in the rear-view mirror, it seems like adventure season is in full force. In this issue we look back at the most amazing MOORE Expo to date, we hear from attendees, we see some top picks for vendors, we get a glimpse of Camp Northology life and ride along on the SMORR2MOORE Rally with a few of the crew from camp.

Also in this issue is a piece on light pollution at camp, news on a partnership between MidlandUSA and Tread Lightly!, some early season cold water safety, finding dispersed campsites, foraging for edibles and more.

Libby 2008-2023

22 CAMP NORTHOLOGY Setting the stage for an epic MOORE Expo stay

30 FOR THIS LAND Setting off on the trip of a lifetime

SHARE YOUR STORY 12 SMORR2MOORE The S@M Rally in pictures

36

18 FROST LAWS Roads and trails in spring 43

INDUSTRY NEWS

MIDLANDUSA IS PARTNERING WITH TREAD LIGHTLY!

Midland Radio is thrilled to partner with Tread Lightly! in an effort to make an impact on the environment as so many of its customers are avid outdoor adventurers

“Because of Midland Radio’s direct involvement in off-roading and all outdoor adventures, we feel it is important to make conservation and efforts to protect our environment a top priority. Through our partnership with Tread Lightly!, Midland Radio feels it can affect great change and make an impact to keep adventurers enjoying the great outdoors as safely as possible,” Director of Marketing Shared Services for Midland Radio, Andrew Kinsman said Midland's partnership with Tread Lightly! includes outreach through social media, educational material for events, and information included with every online order placed on Midland's website Midland Radio will also make available the opportunity for its customers to choose to donate to Tread Lightly! at checkout

In celebration of Earth Day, Midland Radio will also match donations from customers April 20, 2023May 20, 2023

2023 TREAD LIGHTLY! IMPACT REPORT

Tread Lightly! released its 2023 impact report Here are some of the organization's results:

1,392 new or renewing members

28 stewardship projects

13,670 miles of off-road trails enhanced

119,741 pounds of trash removed from public land

1,566 volunteers and 7,524 volunteer hours

233 online course participants

ABOUT TREAD LIGHTLY!

Tread Lightly!, a non-profit organization based in North Salt Lake, Utah works to protect and enhance recreation access and opportunities The organization and its partners work towards this by promoting outdoor ethics to heighten individuals' sense of good stewardship

Tread Lightly! also works to balance both the needs of people who take part in outdoor recreation and needs to maintain a healthy ecosystem with thriving populations of fish and wildlife.

The organization's scope of work includes both land and water Tread Lightly! works with those involved in almost every form of outdoor recreation like hunting, recreational shooting, fishing, and boating Its priorities also mean working closely with those who take part in responsible use of vehicles in the outdoors

Tread Lightly! offers several different types of programs, trainings, and educational material to achieve its goals to educate adventurers across the country.

"BECAUSE OF MIDLAND RADIO’S DIRECT INVOLVEMENT IN OFF-ROADING AND ALL OUTDOOR ADVENTURES, WE FEEL IT IS IMPORTANT TO MAKE CONSERVATION AND EFFORTS TO PROTECT OUR ENVIRONMENT A TOP PRIORITY."

LIMITED EDITION

Be the first to see and experience the new "Furnace Loop" expansion of the DBBB!

Demos, classes, vendors & guided rides

Ticket includes dinner Friday & Saturday Raffle held on Saturday after dinner

a multi-day affair!

May 11 – May 14

Callie's Lake and Campground, 5515 Campton Rd, Stanton, KY 40380, USA

"Back the Byway" event presented by Dan Cummins Jeep will be

M O O R E E X P E R I E N C E

"2023 was our first MOORE Expo! The expo was great and Camp Northology was the perfect setting to test out our new XVenture Trailer setup and figure out what it's like to camp with a baby."

-Cait Schutt

"This was our first time attending MOORE, and it did not disappoint! Such an impressive number and variety of vendors where we got lots of great ideas and products for our upcoming road trip! It was amazing to see all the incredible set ups, and we had a great time camping on site and hanging out at Camp Northology! Looking forward to next year!"

-Sara Freedman

"The MOORE is the event of the year for overland and offroad. It kicks off the season for the Midwest in all the right ways. The vendors, camping, after parties and of course seeing all those familiar faces is what make this expo one of the best. A large expo with a small town feel! We love it!"

-Justin Sturgill, Skinny Guy Campers

"MOORE 2023 was such a drastic change from 2022, the team really stepped up the event as a whole! I loved all the people I got to speak with, there were so many amazing stories shared in Camp Northology. Vendors were well stocked and ready to make a deal! It was cool to see so many different types of products. I also really enjoyed Alex from Northwoods Overland Adventures and her med talk in the ladies lounge."

-Christina Goodwin

"For us the best experience was being able to share our story on how we started out and what we would do different or keep the same. Also we were able to share some of our favorite adventures in Northern Michigan with others as they came by us on storyteller row. Plus it was enjoyable to listen to our fellow neighbors in the area and hear all about their adventures and bounce tips off one another. MOORE Expo did not disappoint this year at all."

-Skinners Adventures

"This is the 2nd year to be able to represent being a part of the Rebelle Rally as team Wild Mavens. We had a blast meeting and connecting with so many amazing and fun people. I love seeing people’s faces light up when they talk about their passion for the adventure, learning, and exploring the great outdoors. The 2023 MOORE Expo gave everyone at every level an opportunity to grow."

-Lisa Addington

"2023 MOORE Expo overall was a great time. Lots of vendors, products to checkout, socializing with story tellers and YouTube influencers...all pretty darn cool. As with anything that keeps growing, you run into some challenges. Day 1 was a little challenging waiting to get the wrist band to get into the expo. We waited in line at least 35-40 minutes which I suppose was not too bad seeing the massive amount of people there. I am not sure I really seen the "VIP" value in the "VIP" tickets but maybe I wasn't looking hard enough. After getting the wrist band and getting through the gate Day 1 then it was smooth sailing around the Expo. Tons of awesome folks, great displays and cold Coors Lite! The Recovery Room Lounge area was pretty cool with interesting speakers. We drove through Camp Northology and it was packed with campers. The Northology team did a great job kicking the camping in high gear from last year! I will be back next year and will spend more time at SMORR as well as The MOORE Expo."

-Dave Elliott

The Moore Expo is the best way to launch the season of overlanding, adventure & travel. One of the best overlanding buyer shows with a variety of vendors and attendees from all over, not just the Midwest. We were fortunate enough to be apart of the Hiker Trailer VIP Experience. The campground grew tremendously this year, much in part of the great staff over at Northology Adventures. Moore brings together so many people in this industry and it was a pleasure to see friends and meet so many new people. Cannot wait for the party next year!

-Jake Middaugh, Becker Supply

I’ve been attending the Moore expo for the last three years. The first year, I was an attendee and was blown away by the number of vendors and the overall positive vibe of the event. For the last two years, I’ve been proud to be a part of the storytellers at Moore. The opportunity to meet with and learn about the fans and other attendees as well as the vendors has been a game changer for me personally and for my YouTube channel. It’s amazing to see the impact we all have as a part of this community and it truly reinforces my desire to help people learn about the hobby. Each year the event grows and so do my friendships and love for everyone involved! Looking forward to Moore 2024!

-Jason Fletcher, All Things Overlanding

"Came from Northern Indiana first time for the Moore Expo had a great time I never new there was so many different overland setups from a simple tent to trailers that will blow your mind."

-James Griffis

Midwest Women's Offroad Weekend, Spring Cleanup Campout, Free ADV Weekend, Keweenaw Overland Adventure Retreat, Overland the Red

LET

Let me See the Stars.

(Note: please read this first paragraph in the voice of the J Peterman character on the 80's TV show, Seinfeld )

Picture this: a rugged adventurer, his camera in hand, perched atop a rocky outcropping in a remote wilderness area. He's been waiting all night for the perfect shot - a stunning Milky Way panorama in all its celestial glory. The stars twinkle above, the air is still and quiet, and the scene is set for an epic photo op. But just as he's about to take the shot, a bright light on a tall pole in a neighboring campsite rudely interrupts his peaceful reverie. The adventurer is taken aback, frustrated that his once-in-a-lifetime shot has been ruined by an inconsiderate camper In the world of outdoor photography, there are few things more frustrating than light pollution, and this adventurer is about to learn that the hard way

Learn more at darksky org

DON'T

YOUR LIGHT TREAD ON ME

So what is the big deal? Everyone uses lighting at camp, don't they? Well of course, for safety and practical reasons, we bring flashlights, lanterns, head-lamps and we have all sorts of auxiliary lights on our rigs and trailers But you ever have someone shine their flash-light in your eyes or forget to turn their headlamp off when talking to you? (guilty) There are plenty of reasons to be mindful of your lighting habits at home and at camp.

Artificial lighting can disrupt the natural environment and disturb wildlife. When you use low-impact lights and keep lighting to a minimum, you help preserve the natural environment and minimize your lighting's impact on the ecosystem.

Bright, high-intensity lights can interfere with your natural sleep patterns and disrupt circadian rhythms, which can affect your health and well-being

Low-impact lighting can help prevent accidents and injuries by illuminating paths and hazards in a subtle, non disruptive way, instead of blinding you with direct light.

Good lighting hygiene is respect for others. Whether you camp in dispersed areas or campgrounds, excessive lighting can disturb other campers and detract from the peacefulness of the natural environment. Use of low-impact lighting and being mindful of others shows respect for your fellow campers and helps create a more enjoyable experience.

Most importantly, at least to our intrepid adventurer at the beginning of this article, good lighting hygiene is important for dark sky preservation Light pollution, (excessive and misdirected use of artificial light) can negatively impact the visibility of the night sky. Light pollution makes it harder to see stars, constellations and the aurora borealis. By practicing good lighting hygiene, you can help preserve the dark sky and enhance your ability to enjoy the beauty and wonder of the night sky while camping.

In conclusion, practicing good lighting hygiene while camping is an important consideration for any camper who wants to enjoy the outdoors responsibly and respectfully. Think "Tread Lightly!" with light.

Incorporating good lighting hygiene principles while camping can help preserve the natural environment and minimize light pollution Here are some tips for camping with respect to dark sky and light pollution:

Use low-impact lighting: Choose lighting that is energy-efficient and low-impact, such as LED lanterns or flashlights Avoid using bright, highintensity lights that can disturb wildlife and other campers in your vicinity

Point lights downward: Point your lighting sources downward to avoid shining light into the sky This helps prevent light pollution and allows you to enjoy the night sky.

Use red lights: Red lights are less disruptive to wildlife and allow you to see without affecting your night vision. Consider using red filters for your campsite lights or purchasing lights that emit red light

Keep lighting to a minimum: Try to use as little light as possible while camping Only use lighting when necessary and turn off lights when you're not using them

Be mindful of your surroundings: be mindful of your surroundings and avoid disturbing other campers Be considerate of your neighbors and keep your lighting to a minimum

Check for local regulations: Some camping areas may have specific regulations on lighting and light pollution Before you go camping, check for any local regulations and adhere to them

By incorporating these good lighting hygiene principles while camping, you can help preserve the natural environment and minimize light pollution. You can also enjoy the night sky and the peacefulness of camping without disrupting wildlife or disturbing other campers

HAMBLOCK FORD

FORD PERFORMANE PARTS

THE BRONCO NATION

WILD HORSES 4×4

NORTHOLOGY ADVENTURES

ROCKTOWN ADVENTURES

TACKFORM

PANDA MOTORWORKS

METAL TECH 4X4

AUTO ACCENTS BY GINA

AUTOMOTIVE SOLUTIONS

GREAT LAKES

UNDERCOATING

MIDWESTTREAD COM

JILLY'S JERKY

VOLCANO FALLS

BRIGHTER FOCUS

PHOTOGRAPHY

RV PERFORMANCE

AMERICOLD-BELVIDERE

LASHES BY LAYCI

BIRD DOG OVERLAND

CODY THE BRONCO

KONA THE BRONCO

HAMBLOCK FORD, BELVIDERE IL

2-5PM

FREE SWAG BAG FOR FIRST 100 BRONCOS CAR SHOW WITH PRIZES

RAFFLES, FOOD TRUCKS, DJ & MORE

ROCKY GLEN OHV ROCKFORD IL

5-10PM

OFF ROAD NIGHT RIDING ($50/VEHICLE)

TCTeardrops

"Really amazingly built trailers, super high quality, super great people, amazing company "

Skinny Guy Campers

"It's unbelievable how much stuff they pack into such a small package and then how big they get when they open them up "

Orion Motors

"Check these guys out, super, super cool stuff that they're doing, if you ' re a van life person, they have some really cool stuff "

Commonwealth 4x4 & Revere Overland

Awesome companies out of Kentucky local to the midwest... they've got all kinds of gear and are doing installs and sweet builds & outfitting "

All Dogs Offroad

"Obviously these guys are my favorite because I'm a Nissan guy and these guys are awesome!"

Becker Supply

"They make cool Midwestern swag like clothes and things, stickers a really neat company that is local to me "

Jason Fletcher of All Things Overlanding tells us his faves from MOORE Expo 2023

I got up early and walked around the MOORE Expo to show you all my favorite booths, kind of what they do, give you a little background on them so if you're interested in anything these guys have, definitely go check them out. These guys are all awesome- I met them all, I've shaken their hands and they're just amazing people and amazing companies with some cool stuff, so check them out!

Zero Breeze

"I hate camping in the summer because it's so hot... these guys make a battery-powered portable air conditioner "

CBI Offroad

"This bumper, man, and this armor, I love it Good looking truck, I love the bumper "

Xtrusion Overland

"Last but not least these things are just super cool So customizable, tons of ways you can do things "

MOOREEXPO MOOREEXPO TTOP10 OP10

VENDORPICKS VENDORPICKS

"I just got back from the 2023 Moore Expo and it was amazing. So many great companies, innovators, and vendors to talk to and learn from. In this video, I'm sneaking you behind the scenes to show you some of my favorites and why I love them." -Jason

VENDORS

s e

A POINT-TO-POINT NAVIGATIONAL RALLY

ABOUT THE SMORR2MOORE OVERLAND RALLY

"Midland Radio is the official sponsor of the SMORR 2 MOORE Overland Rally

The overland rally will put your off-road skills to the test and pushes participants to develop new skills.

The S2M Overland Rally isn't a race, but requires those participating to follow a guidebook with a compass to travel throughout the route answering key questions and completing specific tasks.

Participants will receive a Midland Radio Rally Navigation Book, vehicle decal kit, Midland Radio/MOORE Expo swag bag, commemorative patch, navigator support kit, and VIP parking at MOORE Expo.

The rally begins at SMORR (Southern Missouri Off-Road Ranch) or MOORE Expo You'll use the rally book to take a journey along the backroads to the other destination where you'll turn in the book

Midland Radio will then judge the books to find the winner. The winners of the S2M Overland Rally will walk away with special prizes that will enhance outdoor adventures."

-MidlandUSA

"We couldn’t have asked for a better partner than MidlandUSA to co-create such an incredible addition to the #mooreexpo Mixing the adoration for driving with a definitive test of exact route, the #S2M Overland Rally tests your abilities and encourages you to learn new skills. It's anything but a race for speed, however an exceptional and requesting occasion dependent on the components of headings, stowed away designated spots, time, and distance utilizing guides, compass, and a professionally created road-book to guide you through the experience."

If you were paying attention, you may have spotted some special signage along the route... all in good fun and just one more element that makes the rally unique and interesting.

-Christopher Holloway, MOORE Expo

Jill and Chris Carr of 1941 adventures and Scott Hrncirik Of Adventure Further really enjoyed the new segment through the Soggy Bottom Motorsports Park. The owners were friendly and kind and led them on some fun trails through creeks and waterfalls. I think a return trip there and of course, to the SMORR park is warranted. Soon!

"It was great to be part of the Smorr2Moore Overland Rally this weekend! We really appreciate them including us in their event. We had folks from Texas, Arkansas, Wyoming, Illinois, Michigan, Kentucky, Oklahoma, Kansas, Minnesota, Florida and Louisiana! We even had visitors all the way from Ontario, Canada, eh!"

-Kindall Store

Photos by 1941 adventures, MOORE Expo and Kindall Store

GO PREMIUM WITH NORTHOLOGY

TRAILS END CAMPGROUND TRAILS END CAMPGROUND Campsites & Rustic Cabins

14203 M26 Copper Harbor, MI

adventure resource feature

how to find dispersed camping spots

Identify

Identify the national forest you want to camp in and search for it on Google Maps Switch to satellite view to see the terrain and vegetation

Look

Look for areas of the forest that are undeveloped, away from roads and trails, and near a water source.

Investigate

Use the USFS Motor Vehicle Use Map to identify roads that are open for vehicle traffic

Search

Look for campsites or clearings along those roads using Google Maps

Reference

Use iOverlander and Boondocking apps to find reviews and photos of camping spots in the area

Obey

Check local regulations and restrictions on dispersed camping in the national forest you plan to visit, and ensure you have the appropriate permits and equipment

We encourage you to check out the organi-zations that are promoting camping, travel and recreation ethics and fighting to keep our dispersed camping options open. Please visit these websites to learn more and lend your support.

Dispersed camping has always been popular among overlanders and off-road enthusiasts due to its unique benefits Unlike traditional camping, dispersed camping offers freedom, flexibility, a more natural setting, cost-effectiveness, minimal regulations, and remote locations By choosing to camp in undeveloped areas, campers can explore new territories and create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime

Leave No Trace and Tread Lightly! are two important principles that are emphasized in dispersed camping These principles aim to minimize the impact that campers have on the environment and preserve the natural beauty of the area for future generations

The Leave No Trace principle emphasizes the importance of leaving the campsite as it was found This means packing out all trash, food waste, and litter, and minimizing any impact on the surrounding flora and fauna This principle also emphasizes the importance of respecting wildlife and minimizing noise pollution

The Tread Lightly! principle focuses on minimizing the impact that vehicles have on the environment. This includes staying on designated trails, avoiding sensitive areas such as wetlands and meadows, and minimizing erosion This principle also emphasizes the importance of respecting other campers and being courteous on the trail

By following these principles, campers can help preserve the natural beauty of the area and minimize their impact on the environment Dispersed camping offers a unique opportunity to experience nature in a more authentic way, but it's important to do so responsibly and with respect for the environment By following the Leave No Trace and Tread Lightly! principles, campers can ensure that these areas remain pristine and enjoyable for future generations

A NEW CAMP EXPERIENCE

The Northology Adventures team played an important role in managing the camping experience at the MOORE Overland and Offroad Expo. The team manned the gates, greeted campers as they arrived, checked them in, gave a goody bag to each rig arriving and provided campers with information about the campground and event. They assisted campers with finding their campsite, ran shuttles to and from the MOORE Expo and answered questions they had throughout their stay.

The team's Northern Lights-themed campfire lounge was a fantastic addition to the camping experience The lounge provided a great opportunity for campers to unwind, socialize, and enjoy the company of fellow camping enthusiasts It was a cozy and inviting atmosphere, complete with flickering flames, warm blankets, and some killer northern lights cocktails.

The Northology Adventures team played a key role in ensuring that campers had a positive and enjoyable experience during their stay at the MOORE Expo The warm and welcoming presence at the gate and nightly campfire lounge likely contributed to a sense of community among the campers, making the event a memorable and enjoyable experience for all

The Northology team would like to thank Chris Holloway and the MOORE Expo for the opportunity to serve the MOORE community We encourage any and all feedback in assessing this year's camp and suggestions to make the next one even better.

THANK YOU TO OUR

As the rigs lined up, the team jumped into action Camper's tickets were scanned, writsbands and hang tags were distributed and each rig rolling in got a goody bag sponsored by some amazing companies (pictured, bottom left )

CAMP SPONSORS 0

VOLUNTEER TEAM

JILL & CHRIS CARR

CHRISTINA & NATE GOODWIN

ALEX & CODY ESCHEN

BILL HOFFMAN

NICK KOCH

CINDY & CHAD POPE

Check-in was a breeze, and campers were delighted with the goody bags from Camp Northology sponsors.

If you got a ride in the shuttle, your driver was probably Nick Koch, AKA Viking Uber

There was a ridiculous amount of puppy smooching going on at camp.

Michal Hyden presented Chris Holloway with an original watercolor paining of Chris & his dad at Big Iron

NORTHERN LIGHTS COCKTAIL

1 oz Deep Eddy lemon vodka

1 oz Smirnoff Sours berry lemon

1 oz Red Bull Blueberry

Blueberries & lemon wedges

Fill cups with ice, lemon wedges & blueberries. Add ingredients in order indicated above. Stir after serving.

NORTHERN LIGHTS CAMPFIRE LOUNGE

O N W A R D T O A D V E N T U R E

What if you could be sponsored for three months as you create content from the most epic views across the United States? What if your rig and fully-kitted trailer were provided? What if travel costs were taken care of, and all you had to do was experience the best this land has to offer while documenting your adventure? Enough “what ifs ” This actually happened!

Earlier this year, creators were asked to submit entries and apply to For This Land. The winners were announced at the MOORE Expo on the Overland Radio Show by Lee Odom and Michael Hyden. Congrats Lo & Rome as you embark on an adventure of a lifetime! Pleased to meet you!

"Hello there! Lo and Rome here! We are so excited to announce that we have officially started our journey as creators for the For This Land campaign. This past weekend, we had the opportunity to attend the MOORE Expo in Springfield Missouri, where we were announced as the creators! Thanks to our many supporting sponsors, we will be traveling in the For This Land rig throughout the next three months. We are so excited for the opportunity to travel to many different states–exploring national parks, campsites, and all the things nature has to offer. If we are being honest, life on the road

was never something we thought about embarking on. Now that the journey has begun, life on the road is our reality and has already changed our outlook on life for the better!!"

"We’re excited to head to the Overland Expo West in Flagstaff (where our home was before the journey started!) and the Overland Expo Pacific Northwest in Oregon! We truly can’t explain how excited we are for this journey. Although the adventure has already begun, we are still shocked that we won this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. We have already met so many amazing people and can’t wait to meet many more. If you spot us along the way, please don’t hesitate to say hello!

Follow @forthislandadventures to stay up-to-date throughout the next three months of adventure, travel, and memories. We hope to see you somewhere along the way!"

Lo and Rome :)

delayed trail openings in the cnnf

Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest motorized trail re-openings delayed until May 25, 2023 due to weather-related safety concerns

The massive amounts of late season snow in Northern Wisconsin has led the National Forest Service to delay trail openings until May 25, 2023 "Our record snowpack that made snowmobile trails so enjoyable this winter is slow to melt Trails need time to dry and our staff and volunteer partners need time to clear trails from winter blowdown It’s important to stay off the trails through the end of the closure to avoid significant damage that is costly to repair,” said USDA Forest Service Recreation Program Manager Karen Katz.

"The Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM) establishes an annual seasonal closure to account for the spring thaw. However, year-to-year dates vary based on conditions and this closure order extends the restrictions on motorized use until May 25, 2023 Using a bicycle, horse, or other pack or saddle animal on National Forest Trails is also prohibited until May 25, 2023," according to a press release on 4/26.

While this closure covers motorized trails, (atv, utv and off-highway motorcycle) it would be wise to use caution and wait to venture out on the forest roads, as well

For more information about the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, please visit the website at www fs usda gov/CNNF or follow updates on Twitter at http://twitter.com/CNNF002 and Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/CNNF002.

Photo: Flambeau ATV/UTV Trail on the Park Falls District Photo taken April 25, 2023

USDA FS Photo

coffee fuels adventure

USE CODE "BOREAL" FOR 15% OFF YOUR PURCHASE

Frost Laws Frost Laws Frost Laws ...and what they mean for off-road travel

Wisconsin Michigan

State-wide restrictions for state roads are still in place for the northern third of Wisconsin, but as you can see below, county restrictions have been lifted in may places, including areas of the Nicolet National Forest

Minnesota

We can count on restrictions being lifted state-wide in Minnesota soon, but many local jurisdictions may have lifted the restrictions at county level- you can check the township dates on their websites

Winter is harsh on road surfaces in northern US states. "Some roadway sections are too weak to withstand even the legal load limit (80,000 pounds) during the seasonal freezing and thawing period. These highway sections have signs posted indicating the allowable weight limits during the period normally from the second week in March till late April or early May " -WisDOT

"Frost Laws" are statewide and local seasonal road weight restrictions are put in place during times of the year when the ground is soft and vulnerable to damage from heavy vehicles. These restrictions typically apply to public roads and highways, and are designed to protect the infrastructure from damage caused by heavy vehicles.

What does that mean for folks wanting to hit the two tracks in the forest? These are not off-road travel restrictions but they can give you an idea when the frost is out of the ground. If you are planning off-road travel in the upper Midwest during times when these restrictions are in place, it is important to be aware of the local conditions Even if a route is open, you may be damaging the surface if the frost is still coming out While travel is legal on open routes, if you are damaging the surface and leaving ruts, it is best to wait until conditions improve rather than risk permanent damage to the surface.

In addition to paying attention to frost conditions, it is also important to follow best practices for responsible off-road travel. This include staying on designated routes and trails, avoiding sensitive areas such as wetlands or fragile vegetation, and minimizing your impact on the environment. By following these guidelines, you can help ensure that your off-road travels are both safe and sustainable.

Most of the Upper Peninsula is still in restriction but probably not for long.

foraging for wild edibles

When foraging for spring edibles such as ramps, fiddlehead ferns, and morel mushrooms in the Midwest, it is important to follow the "tread lightly" principles and laws to minimize the impact on the environment and ensure sustainability. Here are some examples of these principles and laws:

Fiddlehead ferns, wild leeks or ramps, mushrooms and more burst from the forest floor each spring. See our foraging tips to the left and learn more about wild edibles, harvesting and sustainable practices with the resources linked below-

Sources:

The Indiana Department of Natural Resources has a helpful guide on responsible foraging in the state, which includes information on regulations, identifying plants, and sustainable harvesting.

The Missouri Department of Conservation also provides guidelines for responsible foraging, including obtaining permission, proper identification, and leaving no trace.

The University of Wisconsin-Madison Extension has a publication on harvesting wild edibles in the state, which includes information on sustainable practices and regulations.

Obtain permission: Before foraging on private land, it is essential to obtain permission from the landowner. Some state and federal lands may also have regulations regarding foraging, so it is important to check before gathering any wild edibles.

Harvest sustainably: When foraging, only take what you need and leave enough for future generations and other animals that rely on these plants for food and habitat. Don't take the entire plant or all the fruiting bodies, as this can harm the plant's ability to reproduce and negatively impact the ecosystem.

Know what you're harvesting: It is important to properly identify the plants and mushrooms you are harvesting to avoid accidentally collecting poisonous species or damaging endangered or threatened plants.

Leave no trace: When foraging, take care to not damage the environment or leave behind any litter. Leave the area as you found it and avoid trampling on plants or disturbing wildlife.

Early season paddling adventure resource

How cold is too cold, and what is the rule of 120?

As the winter snow melts and the weather starts to warm up, many paddlers are eager to hit the water and explore new territories. However, it's important to remember that early season paddling comes with its own set of risks and challenges, especially when it comes to cold water safety. Cold water can pose a serious threat to paddlers, especially those who are far from emergency services and medical attention.

According to the United States Coast Guard, immersion in cold water can lead to hypothermia in as little as 30 minutes. Hypothermia occurs when the body's core temperature drops below its normal range, and it can be life-threatening if left untreated. Paddlers who are not prepared for the cold water can quickly become disoriented, fatigued, and unable to swim or paddle to safety. The American Canoe Association recommends wearing protective insulating gear if the temperature of the water you're paddling is 60 degrees or colder, or if the water and air temperature combined add up to less than 120 degrees.

One of the best ways to stay safe when paddling in cold water is to dress for the conditions. Wearing a wetsuit or drysuit, along with appropriate layers and accessories like gloves and hats, can help keep paddlers warm and comfortable. Additionally, paddlers should always carry emergency gear like a whistle, signaling device, and throw rope in case of an emergency.

It's also important for paddlers to assess their skills and experience level before embarking on a cold water paddling trip. Paddling in cold water can be much more challenging than in warmer temperatures, and paddlers should be confident in their abilities to handle unexpected situations. It's recommended that paddlers take a cold water safety course or receive instruction from a qualified instructor before heading out on the water.

Cold water safety is essential for paddlers, especially early in the season when water temperatures are still low. By dressing appropriately, carrying emergency gear, and assessing their skills and experience level, paddlers can enjoy the beauty and excitement of cold water paddling while staying safe and protected.

"Sam and his crew are awsome they know the trails well and have good eye for what your jeep is capable of "

"Sam was awesome. Give us exactly what we wanted and then some. HIGHLY RECOMMEND him if you want to explore some awesome trails "

justiceexplores@gmailcom

"Sam is amazing! He knows his area, his spotting, is conscientious of what he’s bringing you through and is extremely patient!! Excellent and I would give 150 stars!!! You need to be able to trust your spotter and I would follow him anywhere!!" justice explores JusticeExplores

keweenaw overland adventure retreat

overland basecamp event in the upper peninsula of michigan

September 14-17, 2023

CAMP GEAR PICKS

RATCHET RANGLER TIE-DOWN ORGANIZERS

"Save time, money, and frustration on your job sites by eliminating ratchet strap tangles for good!" These strap organizing bags were a hit- how did no one think of this before? Go to the Ratchet Rangler website to see how they work, this is a no-brainer.

THINGS THE CAMP NORTHOLOGY TEAM PICKED UP AT MOORE

DEVOS LIGHTRANGER

Devos must have been running a hell of a deal on these, it seems like every other person leaving the expo had the tell-tale Devos box or two under their arms "Set of 3 polycarbonate lens covers Snap on design allows you to quickly change color temperature for a warmer vibe, less insect attraction, or dark-sky stargazing That includes a red lens for good lighting hygiene as mentioned in an article in this issue

MXT275-WHIP EXTENDED RANGE BUNDLE

MidlandUSA is the go-to for vehicle- tovehicle comms in our circle. MidlandUSA has special MOORE Expo event pricing and one of our crew was able to pick up a nice bundle for a great price.

BULLET POINT MOUNTING SOLUTIONS

Securing your phone while off-road is important and these phone mounts are up to the task

STOP & GO 2000 AIR COMPRESSOR

"Just attach the built-in 7.5ft cord with alligator clips onto your battery to start airing up your deflated item." Says it will inflate up to a 42" tire.

May

May

July 7-9

October 19-22

the Red

A monthly feature bringing you our favorite YouTube videos from some great creators- check them out and be sure to subscribe! To watch the videos featured, click on the thumbnail on the right.

YOUTUBE FAVES

xpo and all the sights and or vendors. Bill and Deb oad folks, showing off a Skinny Guy Camper. We are especially grateful for the invitation to sample some fried alligator nuggets at camp, fresh from Florida! The shrimp and hush puppies were delicious, too. Man, these people know how to camp!

In this episode, Jason gives us a podcast-style recap of the MOORE Expo held in April in Springfield, MO. Jason talks about his experience there, the vendors, the Storytellers, the friendships and the fatigue, bu maybe most importantly, that even though the MOORE Expo is not about the actual activity of overlanding, it has a place and is an important event for the community in the Midwest

In this video, Scott goes over the 5 things he enjoyed most about attending the 2023 Moore Expo. It was great to see so many Nissan Frontiers and Titans at the Expo, and we thank Scott for the shoutout he gave us in mentioning how much he enjoyed camping with the Northology crew onsite at the fairgrounds.

Possibly our favorite Jeep build at the MOORE Expo. We regret not being able to meet Steve but we appreciate his walk around Camp Northology and being able to see all the cool rigs and camping setups that were with us there. The walkaround the expo is great, too, with a lot of shots and some chats with vendors.

creator s Land Rover Defender Trophy as he explores the SMORR@MOORE route on his way to the MOORE Overland Expo in Springfield, Missouri. We especially like the drive by of the camping area showing just how many rigs were there!