watching steelhead leaping up Willoughby Falls draws big crowds

From now through early May, locals and visitors to Orleans can witness the annual upstream migration of steelhead rainbow trout at Willoughby Falls. This natural event features the impressive sight of trout leaping up the falls as they head to their spawning grounds.

The migration not only offers a chance to observe one of Vermont’s premier wildlife spectacles but also serves as a community gathering point.

The recently rechartered Northeast Kingdom chapter of Trout Unlimited, now named The David & Francis Smith Northeast Kingdom Chapter, is hosting meet-and-greet events at the falls on April 20, 21, 27, and 28 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. These gatherings are a chance for the public to meet the new board members, discuss the local fishery, and explore ways to get involved with Trout Unlimited.

The Willoughby River steelhead run is a highlight for anglers, kicking off Vermont’s trout fishing season on April 13.

Fishing is prohibited from the downstream edge of the Orleans-Brownington Road Bridge to the top of the natural falls just upstream, from April 13 to May 31, to protect the fish during this critical period of their lifecycle.

Horse rescue center for sale – the North Country Animal League in Morrisville will sell its equine center, citing financial unsustainability and a misalignment with its core mission of rescuing at-risk dogs and cats. The decision, confirmed by NCAL Director Jacques Du Preez in late March, follows challenges in maintaining the center profitably amid broader operational focuses.

Located on a 14-acre site adjoining NCAL’s main property, the equine center, previously known as Ryder Brook Horse Farm, has been unable to sustain itself financially through its boarding co-op program, despite support from local horse enthusiasts and an initial half-million dollar donation in 2019.

The center houses 13 horses, with plans underway to rehome them responsibly as operations wind down. Du Preez emphasized the importance of focusing NCAL’s resources on expanding its critical services for dogs and cats, especially as demands on these services grow.

Local residents and previous benefactors have expressed disappointment. The NCAL board is committed to ensuring the transition does not negatively impact the horses currently in care.

Burlington Country Club (BCC) is celebrating its 100th anniversary with a series of events throughout the 2024 season.

Burlington Country Club marks 100th year – the centennial celebration kicked off with the unveiling of an iconic Centennial Clock during the Solar Eclipse on April 8, along with the release of a limited-edition “BCC Centennial Light” beer in partnership with Zero Gravity.

Upcoming events include a Hickory Stick tournament, a party for 400 members and guests, and the publication and book signing of “Burlington Country Club, The First 100 Years” by author Andy Bigford.

BCC will host the Vermont Amateur Championship July 9-11, as well as the Vermont State High School Championships (boys and girls) and various other golf leagues, tournaments, charity outings, and social events.

Ken Merritt, the Club’s first official historian, has been working to reconstruct, archive, and showcase BCC’s notable history. Established in 1924, the Club has become a cornerstone of the Burlington community and is the only Donald Ross course in Vermont.

The Club’s founders, led by Charles L. Woodbury, acquired 150 acres from Henry Holt’s Fairholt estate to create a club that would rival any in New England. The course, designed by Donald J. Ross, has been praised for its breathtaking views, strategic design, and exceptional greens.

Over the years, BCC has hosted legendary golfers such as Byron Nelson, Ken Venturi, Bobby Locke, and Betsy Rawls, and was the home club of Kiki Price, one of Vermont’s most accomplished amateur players.

Farm bill reviewed – the Connecticut River Joint Commission will hold a discussion of the Farm Bill later today at Newmont Farm on the Bradford-Fairlee town line.

The Farm Bill is the single most important national legislation for farmers, food, and nutrition. The 2018 farm bill is up for replacement before September 2024, after being extended in 2023.

What might be in a renewed farm bill and how will it affect our local farmers? What more or less could be done that might benefit the Connecticut River watershed farmers? Hear about and discuss these questions with state representatives and local farmers through this bi-state event.

Event runs from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. RSVP required.