I have not seen green on the trees in Centennial Woods since I first visited my site one semester ago. It made me so happy to finally see those green buds emerging from the tree branches, almost welcoming me back to my phenology spot. Over time, I have observed and noted the phenological changes at Centennial Woods. From the leaves changing color, to falling off and becoming apart of the forest ground, to now leaves coming back in time for spring and summer. I have also noticed new growth in the woods. For example, it has been raining the past few days along with warmer weather, which has brought new moss on trees and small flowers poking through the leaves. This new growth was not here a month ago.
Over time, I have familiarized myself with Centennial Woods, and I can easily get there with little difficulty. Some landmarks that are important to my walk there are the wooden pathways. There are about four sections throughout the trail that I have walk on to get to my phenology site, and they aid in helping people avoid walking in a ditch where flooding occurs often. Another landmark that I associate with my site is this semi uprooted coniferous tree that looks over my spot. Its long roots covered in moss are hard to miss when walking to Centennial Brook.
Some minor landmarks include the small hills and turns that I have to walk up and down, and I feel comfortable walking over them because I know I am going the correct way.
Centennial Woods is a small getaway from UVM’s college campus and the busy shopping center of Burlington. Here, students and locals can explore Centennial Woods and gain a deeper understanding of what it provides to our community. I think that Centennial Woods intertwines cultural and nature because in some ways, it is a meeting ground for people to enjoy nature and immerse themselves in the outdoors. Students learn about the ecosystem process and services that Centennial Woods provide, and in turn, we want to preserve them. Centennial Woods also provides a sense of place to the citizens of Burlington, and pulls people in because of its nature and beauty.
I do consider myself a part of my place because I have spent so much time observing and coming back my spot that I feel connected to it and a part of it. I feel like since I have learned so much about the environment, and what phenology means, I am able to connect myself further with my spot and understand the living organisms that live in Centennial Woods.
