Tag: nature

Beaver State

Beavers are a keystone species. They create wetlands that support a rich diversity of life. Many animals and insects benefit from the efforts of beavers, including salmon, frogs, turtles, birds, otter, deer, elk, and dragonflies. Oregon is the beaver state. It is the only state with a two-sided flag, and one side is dedicated to… Continue reading Beaver State

Douglas Squirrels

Squirrels are leaders in adaptation, able to survive urban settings well. These animals have great skills: highly social natures, masterful nest builders, industrious food finders, and the good sense to sleep in, and lie in sunbeams.  A group of squirrels is called a “scurry.” The word, squirrel, comes from the Greek word, skiouros. It means… Continue reading Douglas Squirrels

Mt. Baldy (Ridgeline trail)

Standing around in 38-degree weather is a little painful but it’s worth it to learn stuff about nature while on a guided Eugene First Saturday Park Walk. Things learned on the group hike: 1. It is unnaturally difficult to control nature. 2. Staying on trails is environmentally respectful. 3. Vote to fund parks and public… Continue reading Mt. Baldy (Ridgeline trail)

Newport

This is between Toledo and Newport. It is quiet here. Oysters lived here, native to this place, many decades ago. They become hugely popular, even shipped to San Francisco. They don’t live here anymore, they were all eaten. The Yaquina tribe also doesn’t live here anymore. 80% died from smallpox. The remaining survivors faced other… Continue reading Newport

The Yew

(Published in Take Root magazine, Winter 2020) The Pacific Yew is a quiet, understated tree. In fact, it is considered an “understory” tree. It doesn’t get that tall and is beneath what are called “overstory” trees (the tall ones). Maybe you are reading the recent novel about trees, The Overstory, by Richard Powers.  Throughout history… Continue reading The Yew