Harbor Boat Launch

A close up view of one of the many boat launches I found at the harbor in Saint Paul Park. It really is a strange sight to see frozen water surrounding the empty docks. With the frozen over waters, it was calm and quiet that afternoon.

Optical Illusion

While this beautifully red painted paddle wheel looks like it's in good working order. Take a close look at the slats of wood that are just about sitting in the water. By the lack of paint, this tells me that the paddle wheel is just for show and never moves. I do know there are a couple of boats docked up at Harriot Island on the Mississippi River in St Paul that are permanent. I would have to guess this was one of the fixed ships.

Build It And They Will Come

The Mississippi River shipping season is open to barge traffic now as of March 28. Almost a month later, the river is starting to warm a bit, but the small boat docks sit empty. Soon they will be filled with boats of all flavors and variety.