March has to be one of the tougher months for North Country people: zero degrees one night, cold rain the next day, then a brilliant sun and breezes that could feel warm if they weren't drifting over the lingering snow pack. But there are some compensations, like maple syrup, and the signs of coming spring begin to add up.Cooperative Extension's Amy Ivy listens closely for seasonal bird songs and watches twigs and shoots for signs of spring. She has a recommendation for bringing a little springtime into the house too: cut young branches for forcing. Birch and tamarack are a couple favorites. [full story]