Leave it to Beaver

Last week I received a lesson in wiring the snow off the roof of my garage by Ron Hay.  Ron is a 77 year old Island Park resident who earned the nickname “Beaver” due to his trapping prowess. I have gotten to know Ron, his wife Nancy and son Ethan through my position as Ethan’s Scout leader. It was quickly apparent to me that Ron harbored an encyclopedia of mountain skills which he was eager to share upon request.  

While I have seen roof wiring done, I had never tackled it myself. The four feet of snow blanketing my garage presented me with the opportunity to learn the skill. While camping at Sheridan Ranch with Ron and Ethan, Ron was quick to give this rookie a lesson. Ron patiently walked me through the prep work of clearing the roof edges and shoveling off the peak. He instructed me on how to place the wire across the peak and he then completed the encirclement of one side of the roof with the wire. He pulled the wire through the snow until it broke loose and slid to the ground with a remarkably loud thud. We then repeated the procedure on the opposite side of the roof with the same result.

Ron was gracious enough to allow me to video and post my lesson on my YouTube Channel, “Base Camp with Mike and Sheri”. 

Many long-term residents of the caldera have valuable practical skills that make life in Yellowstone Country easier. Unfortunately they are too often overlooked. I appreciate the time that Beaver is spending imparting some of his knowledge to me. I am looking forward to the trapping lessons that he has promised me this fall.

It is a privilege to spend time with those who have learned how to coexist and thrive in the harsh and wild conditions of Island Park.