What's the most-convenient way to view wildlife? It's your car. Limited access highways through wild country offer plenty of opportunity, as do less-traveled roads through national forests, state fish and wildlife areas and national wildlife refuges. A spotting scope with a mount for a car window can make such drives even more rewarding.

Was last year's lease a bad memory? The best time to find a good lease isn't October when everyone else is looking for wetter pastures. Start asking around now. You might even want to place an ad in some small, weekly newspapers in your area and see who calls.

Thinking about putting in a pit next year? If so think about buying yourself a dumpster. They're already water-tight and definitely sturdy. Then you want to carefully consider where you put it. They're not easy to move.

When considering a canoe trip down an unfamiliar stream, consider using the local outfitter, at least the first time. It will save you the trouble of taking a second vehicle, it will save potential damage to your canoe or kayak and it's normally not terribly expensive.

Remember, when you come upon a small animal in the wild during the spring, it's always best to leave it alone unless you're certain the mother has been severely injured or killed. Mom's usually close by even if you don't see her. And if mom is out of the picture take the infant animal to a licensed wildlife rehabilitator. It's the animal's only other chance.