Articles written by Ryan Sokoloski


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  • Bare naked legs

    Ryan Sokoloski, Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks|Jan 13, 2022

    Just the other day while working at Placid Lake State Park, I observed a group of ducks gathered around a large space of open, ice-free water. Some were swimming and foraging in the shallow bottom gravel and mud, while others were situated near the edge of the ice mere inches from the cold open water. Of those birds on the ice, some were standing squarely on both feet while others were laying down; but there were three ducks who stood defiantly in the cold on one leg. One of those three even...

  • Anthropomorphism - The good and bad

    Ryan Sokoloski, Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks|Sep 23, 2021

    Anthropomorphism (pronounced: ann-throw-poe-MORF-ism) is the term used to define when we give animals (or inanimate objects such as rocks & trees) human characteristics. Here are a few examples: "Gus" is the world's largest Western Larch Tree and a full-time resident of Seeley Lake Montana. He is over 1,000 years old, 160 feet tall, 34 feet around. He has seen countless changes in human activity and loves his local celebrity status. Just south of Helena Montana is the "Sleeping Giant", a...

  • Love, war and State Parks

    Ryan Sokoloski, Montana State Parks Manager|Dec 31, 2020

    What do Montana's 55 different state parks mean to you? Montana residents who do not regularly visit our state parks may not realize just how beneficial the state park system is in their communities and everyday lives. Let's delve into some of those areas as it applies directly to our town of Seeley Lake, and the nearby Placid Lake State Park and Salmon Lake State Park. When many people think of Montana State Parks they often think of a single park or campground, mistakenly thinking that our...

  • Day trips and stay-cations

    Ryan Sokoloski, Montana State Parks Manager|Jul 16, 2020

    Over the past dozen years, perhaps you have noticed an increase in the use of the term “stay-cation.” It seems every industry has been tapping into this idea; a high-end automobile manufacturer has a current commercial airing that mentions (among their sales pitch) “Day Trips are Better than Day Dreams.” Although I am not in the market for a new car, I certainly can agree with that tag line. Ever since I was in high school, I have wanted to visit and travel the Outback of Australia. Unfortunately for me, I am really no closer to achievi...

  • Close calls and near misses in Montana State Parks

    Ryan Sokoloski, Montana State Parks Manager|Feb 27, 2020

    Over this past Christmas holiday season, I was reminiscing with a group of four friends. The conversation took a normal course; inquiring about each other's families and the various home projects we were working on. We were all laughing, joking and sharing wisecracks at each other's expense. As the tide of conversation changed, one particular topic was enjoyed more than others. It was the topic of "funny things that happen at work." If you have ever had a friend who works in an Emergency Room,...

  • Take the opportunity to tent it

    Ryan Sokoloski, Manager, Montana State Parks|Apr 11, 2019

    I know how you're feeling...Spring is here! Mountain Bluebirds have returned. Robins are prominently flying around town. A few early-season bugs splattered on my windshield on a recent drive. The weatherman has even forecasted some early rain with a possibility of some rolling thunder. Within the next couple weeks, the ice will be off the lakes and lawns and trees will be sprouting new green growth. And as with previous years, social media and personal conversations will be filled with people...

  • Good Stories From Bad Experiences

    Ryan Sokoloski, Montana State Parks|Dec 14, 2017

    During the holiday season, I often reflect upon the past year (and some of those significant experiences throughout my life). I suspect that many of you are like me, you are reminded of your blessings during the holiday season. But what about those special memories that arise from the negative experiences? We remember those times too and we relive the experiences by retelling and reliving them in our mind and conversations with family and friends. Two popular quotes come to mind as I write this; “The best laid plans, are laid to waste…” – Rob...

  • New Campsites for New Users Coming to Placid and Salmon Lake State Parks

    Ryan Sokoloski, Park Manager Placid Lake State Park, Salmon Lake State Park|Apr 27, 2017

    SEELEY LAKE - New for Placid and Salmon Lake State Parks are campsites designed for a growing number of users, hike and bike campsites. Montana Department of Commerce provided construction funding to Montana State Parks for the creation and enhancement of "hike & bike campsites" at four state parks. The parks chosen were selected based upon the current popular corridors of bicycle traffic and intended to support the growing trend of bicycle tourism in western Montana. Those campers who have...

  • First Day Hike Offered at Placid Lake State Park

    Ryan Sokoloski, Park Manager, Montana State Parks|Dec 24, 2015

    Many of us are gearing up for productive Christmas and New Year’s festivities. Maybe with friends and family, taking some personal time to travel out of the area to warmer climates; and some of Seeley Lake’s temporary and seasonal residents are planning to come here to enjoy some of our everyday peace, spirit and small town charm. If you are anything like me, than I bet you can close your eyes and see all the great food, treats, candies and pies. Just the thought of home cooked meals and cookies has me salivating while picturing how good the...

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