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It's hard to live in Juneau and not be aware of the outdoors. Here we're surrounded by Mother Nature in ways that rival even the most pristine and remote locations.

Some days she makes herself subtly known. Like those quiet, crisp mornings when only the birds and tides are active and the mist wraps in fingers around the hills and draws. Other days she's more obvious. Like when the wind whips white-capped waves up the channel and the rain falls in sideways sheets across the Douglas Bridge. On rare occasions she's simply stunning. It's those blue-bird days where the mountains seem bigger and more majestic than ever, and the water so calm and glassy you hold your breath out of fear it might just get taken away.

I don't think we can live here and not be moved by our surroundings. For that reason I think it's quite fitting that the Juneau Empire have a section to highlight this unique environment. This section won't just be about trails, hunting and fishing - sure you'll find those topics covered - but it will also be about unusual aspects of Southeast Alaska that you can't find elsewhere.

For years I've been an avid backpacker, fly fishing enthusiast, trail runner, alpine and Nordic skier. My love for the outdoors runs deep.

I plan to cover climbing, extreme skiing, prospecting, sailing and scuba diving, just to name a few. You'll also find features highlighting community members doing amazing things.

Each week a calendar of events will publish along with tide information and a fishing report. Local columnists will share their experiences and advice each week as well.

I also welcome submissions from the community. Share your stories, photos and ideas by e-mailing me at abby.lowell@juneauempire.com or by calling 523-2271. I also encourage you to drop by our office at 3100 Channel Drive.

Look for this section every Friday in the paper and online at www.juneauempire.com.