"Why Here?" Traditional Cache
Birchy: After chatting with one of the Corps of Engineer engineers, it appears that the dam will officially be off limits to the public for a year or more so it is best to archive this puppy. Thanks to all who went looking for it.
Birchy
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Difficulty:
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Terrain:
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Size: 
(regular)
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Takes less than a 1/2 mile walk across level terrain. You should be able to locate the cache within a few feet of the top of the dam. It is a 2 quart plastic bucket with a tight fitting lid. More easily viewed from below than from above. BE CAREFUL. THE ROCKS ARE VERY SLIPPERY WHEN WET!!!
WORK IS CONTINUING ON THE DAM. THE CACHE WILL REMAIN IN PLACE WAITING FOR THE COMPLETION. THE AREA IS OFF LIMITS TO THE PUBLIC SO PLEASE DON'T CAUSE ANY PROBLEMS BY GETTING IN THE WAY OF THE WORKERS.
Take a few moments to think about: "Why would anyone put a dam and shallow reservoir in such a goofy place?" Well, it's here so try to think of the positive and negative effects it has on this part of the valley. Add your thoughts to the log book, plus anything else that may prove interesting.
It's now Fall and heading into Winter. The lake is being drained and will not be completely refilled for two or three years. It seems the dam is leaking and the Corps is planning its rehabilitation. Hunters, walkers and joggers are the most common recreationists during this time. Recent work on the dam has not disturbed the cache up to this point, so it will remain here until further notice. Keep a lookout for wildlife expecially around the barrow pits across the highway. Those logs floating out there are sunning spots for turtles. The dam is a nice place for windy walk on a cool winter day. Lots of locals enjoy that trek daily.
Below the dam on the North side you will see the barrow pits from which, presumeably, material was taken to build the dam.
Enjoy your visit and come back often!!!
In the summer months you can avoid paying the park entrance fee by parking at the spillway.
To learn more about the dam and reservoir visit: https://www.nwp.usace.army.mil/EC/h/hc/fernridge.htm
http://www.nwd-wc.usace.army.mil/report/frn.htm
Birchy
Additional Hints
(Decrypt)
Lbh znl unir gb zbir n srj zrqvhz fvmr ebpxf gb npprff gur pnpur.