The Danger of Wild Parsnip (Pastinaca Sativa)

Wild parsnip particularly the (Pastinaca Sativa) can have horrendous effects on the skin of an individual who happens to come into contact with it.  Many people who are affected by this plant believe that they have been exposed to poison ivy.  

One major difference between poison ivy and wild parsnip is that poison ivy can affect the body anywhere there is exposure to its oils, but the wild parsnip requires sunlight to be present in order to have an affect.  This is not to say that wild parsnip can't cause a rash or burn on your skin if it is cloudy outside.  Just as you can get a sunburn on a cloudy day, you can also have a serious reaction to wild parsnip on these days.  The burns from wild parsnips can leave you with a discoloration of skin for anywhere from a couple of months up to a couple of years.  

Another difference between the two is that while poison ivy will leave you itching for up to a week or more, the wild parsnip will cause a severe burn that doesn't last nearly as long.  The burning from exposure to wild parsnip will begin within 24 hours whereas the itching rash from poison ivy may take up to two days to begin.  

For more information and photos of the wild parsnip, check out the USDA Website.  By studying photos and video of wild parsnip you can make sure to avoid it while on your adventures in the great outdoors! 

- Any day in the outdoors is a good day

Minnesota's Afton State Park

The Afton State Park in Minnesota consists of 1620 Acres of woodlands and bluffs that drop as much as 300 feet offering some amazing views of the St. Croix River Valley and attracts over 190,000 visitors each year.  There are many activities to participate in including bicycling, camping, cross country skiing, fishing, hiking, horseback riding and swimming.

• Bicycling - There are four miles of paved bicycle trails.
• Camping - There are a total of 28 campsites for backpackers, one canoe camping site, four camper cabins and two yurts.  

1. Camper Cabins - The Big Bluestem and the Burr Oak Camper Cabins each sleep six people and the wheelchair accessible Bluebird and White Pine Camper Cabins are each big enough for 5 people.
2. Yurts - The two yurts each sleep 7.  One (the Coyote Yurt) is wheelchair accessible and offers a covered outdoor cooking area.

• Cross-country Skiing - Eighteen miles of trails throughout the Afton State Park offer the opportunity for cross-country skiing during the winter months.
• Fishing - The St. Croix River offers excellent fishing and boating opportunities.  Boat access to the river is available within ten miles of the park.
• Hiking - The 20 miles of hiking trails throughout the Afton State Park offer outdoor enthusiasts the opportunity to take in spectacular views all along the way. 
• Horseback Riding - There are five miles of trails for those who enjoy bringing their horses along.
• Swimming - The Afton State Park features a swim beach for those who enjoy getting their exercise in the water.

There are two virtual tours available so you an get a peek inside the park before visiting.  These tours are the Panoramic Tour and the Snapshot tour.

Anyone looking for a place to visit in Minnesota should certainly look into the Afton State Park.

- Any day in the outdoors is a good day