Morechella

 Finally a fortunate stroke of luck in one of last years burns thanks to the uncanny abilities of our mountain morel guru friends. The burn was in an old growth cedar forest with punctuated stands of douglas fir and larch interspersed with birch and aspen groves. We reached near frolicking levels if it wasn't for the vertical slope and rocky cliffs.

The birds of the burn included mountain bluebirds, townsend's warblers, three toed woodpeckers, varied thrush, juncos and american dippers-the little penguins of the river.
It is a mystery why Townsend's song vary subtly from the regions of the Kootenai and throughout the Flathead National Forest but several pairs were establishing territories flanking the creek.

The neighborhood bear, snow capped peaks and two merging mountain creeks sheltered by an old growth cedar stand dripping with Alectoria made for a wonderful afternoon.

Marinated Artichoke and Morel Pasta

Heirloom Sun Dried Tomatoes

Asian Green of Choice: Pak Choy

Marinated Artichokes

Garlic

Fresh Chives

Brown Rice Ribbon Pasta

Cook down a handful of morels in marinated artichokes, salmon, Pak Choy and sundried tomatoes. Add garlic for the last 3 minutes and serve with fresh chives over a bed of noodles.