Mississippi River's Slush Floats Past Bellevue

Yesterday with temperatures in the 50s, it was time for an afternoon road trip. My wheels aimed us to northeast Iowa and into the scenic driftless area. The 42N vehicle climbed a steep hill to get a bird's eye view of Bellevue, Iowa, revealing more of the statewide snowless condition.

That's the mighty Mississippi River flowing relatively ice free. See those ripples on the river above and below Lock and Dam No. 12? They are actually floating chunks of clear slush. Not quite icebergs. Iowa is on the left side of the river with Illinois on the right.

The late afternoon, low sun angle lighting was fantastic. Golden rays illuminated the area and the clear skies produced a deep blue color. No photo color enhancements were necessary to make this scene look good.

Tonight the first snowfall of the season is moving through and will bring up to 4 inches of snow to most of eastern Iowa including Bellevue. It was a nice winter (snow free) until now. Know that.

Late Summer Rays on the Pools of the Mississippi River

At Bellevue, Iowa the late summer sunshine is enough to get people outside to enjoy the weather and the beauty of the Mississippi River. This pontoon boat eased upriver and passed a sunbather just south of Lock and Dam No. 12. Notice how high the roller gates are positioned on the dam. The river's current level is low so the dam's gates are pulled up to allow more water downriver. The lock, off to the left hand side of the dam, was being filled upriver by a tow and its barges. Navigation pool 12 runs from here north to Dubuque, Iowa. Pool 13 (where the pontoon and sunbather enjoy the water) is defined by the water south of this dam all the way to the dam at Clinton, Iowa. Know that.

Rustic Setting for Historic Potter's Mill

Potter's Mill is a fixture of 42N country's Bellevue, Iowa (latitude 42.26N, longitude 90.43W). Built in 1843 the mill produced flour for years, was a well known restaurant and serves lately as a Bed & Breakfast. The structure is the focus of many photographers for its uniqueness, vibrant condition and location. Budding Ansel Adams' may consider the time of day and season when photographing the mill. If possible get on the bluff side of the stream to capture the sunlight side of the mill. Bring a wide angle lens for some of the work. Know that.