The observation is about Qangaanaruaqs, also known as "Squirrel Parka Tail" plants, which are usually dormant until spring but have started growing due to the mild winter weather in Togiak, Alaska. These plants are used medicinally for sore throats and colds. The author is concerned about the impact of the warm weather on other plants, particularly berries, which should be insulated by snow and protected by winter's chill. Moose season is open, but hunters are using ATVs instead of snow machines, and there are no ptarmigan for the second year in a row. The post will be forwarded to plant specialists for further analysis, and it is suggested that monitoring of these events should be started.

Observation: This observation is on the seawall at least 75+ yards from the Postal Office. These plants Qangaanaruaqs, (translation) "Squirrel Parka Tail" plants a relative of the Yarrow? should be asleep until spring. Due to upper 30 and 40 + degree weather, these plants are most likely mistaking the weather as spring.

These plants are used medicinally for sore throats, colds, etc... I believe these plants will die when we get our cold snap. Just wondering about the other plants that should insulated by snow and protected by winter's chill, especially our berries. Another warm/mild/cold winter will justify our subsistence gathering which is important in our diet.

Moose season is open until the Jan. 31st. so far, three hunters claimed their meat using ATVs! when they are supposed to be on snow machines. No ptarmigan either, second year in a row.

I am appalled at what this adaptation is to be and do not look forward to it! We have to adapt and make changes of how to gather or keep our subsistence activities alive.

Consult: this post will be forwarded to our partner and plant specialist Gino Grazianno and Jessie Moan Statewide IPM Technician at the UAF Cooperative Extension Service. "Interesting observation," Gino writes, "and something we can expect with these odd winter warm-ups. Perennial plants, particularly trees, shrubs, and evergreens are sometimes quick to start growing with thawing. This gives these species an advantage in the spring time over plants that are starting from seed, or otherwise take longer to start summer growth. Too many freeze thaws could starve the roots of stored nutrients which can set a plant back when spring really occurs. It is hard to predict when these events will substantially affect the species health. It would be an excellent thing to start monitoring."