Hello Everybody!
This will be my last phenology post of the school year. 🙁 It has been a pleasure to explore the natural landscape around Burlington and share my experiences with you!
As you can see from above, while the cold moody rains of April made life a bit dreary, it was all worth it in the end. Seas of flowers have begun popping up all over town. Although I could not identify this beauty, its radiant warmth really did brighten up my day when I saw it.
I think part of the beauty of Salmon Hole is that it provides an escape. It is this natural oasis within the constant motion of the city that allows people to explore and observe their home through a different lens. This area is really important to the culture of the city. Burlington has this reputation of being “green”, part of which includes having multiple recreational opportunities available within the city limits. I believe that citizens are used to a lifestyle that still promotes outdoor recreation, even if it is in the middle of an urban area.
This section of the river is a melting pot of sorts that brings people from all walks of life together. There are the avid fishers, the curious students, and the everyday locals who just want a breath of fresh air. No matter their reason, Salmon Hole provides an outlet for those looking to create a better understanding of the place they call their home.
Having a phenology spot that allowed me to better understand the new world that I was entering was a great way to work through my freshman year of college. Being outside in a place where so much history, both natural and cultural, has happened grounded me and reminded me of my purpose for coming to college. My job in coming here was to learn, and the trees and the river have been truly fantastic teachers.
I don’t feel like such an intruder when I come to these woods anymore; I think the woods have even begun to welcome me when I enter their care. However, I hesitate to say that I feel like I am part of this place. I think that it takes more time and commitment to truly build such a relationship. And while I believe that in the future I have the ability to become part of the place that is Salmon Hole, I don’t want to make such claims after such an insufficient amount of time spent together.
I do feel a deep connection to this area; I am very grateful for all the knowledge that it has passed down to me, and all the memories that it help to create. I look forward to building this relationship more throughout my years at UVM.
I’ll leave you with some pictures of some Christmas tree fiddlehead ferns that I found at my spot today!
Thank you all for coming on this journey with me, and I hope you have a wonderful summer!
~Emet 🙂