My site started out green and full of life. Birds could be heard anywhere chirping, chipmunks scurried around, and large green leaves shaded the space in a beautiful canopy. Soon after, the canopy turned orange, yellow, and brown. Dropping its leaves onto the ground, the forest floor was then thick with colorful leaves, while the tree branches above became bare. Later, snow covered the forest in a thick blanket. This then caused a season of mud as the snow melted.
Today, after all the forest’s phases, it is back to green. While the canopy is not completely full of green leaves yet, small ones are starting to grow from the trees, especially the saplings springing to life on the forest floor. Additionally, a lot of moss coating mature trees is starting to grow. The sounds of the forest are also coming to life as many different bird calls can be heard up above. There also appears to be more fallen trees and branches recently than before.
The major landmarks I am now familiar with are the bridges connecting from either side of the trail, as well as another trail that sprouts off from the side, and a very large tree which stands closest to the center of the area. Small landmarks include the roots which stick up from the ground after you exit the bridge, and the two mature trees which are covered in moss and stand close to one another near the opening to another trail on the left.
Here, culture and nature intertwine by being both a habitat for birds, chipmunks, and other species, as well as a hiking spot for many people. There is a culture within people hiking. There is also just culture where people are, and where they feel connected. By being connected to Centennial woods, there is culture there. Nature is intertwined with this because there are many plants in the area creating a thriving ecosystem.
While I feel connected to Centennial woods, I don’t necessarily feel that I am a part of it. I feel that Centennial is a place to visit. A place to get away and enjoy the woods, ecosystem, and the beings which live and grow there. I don’t necessarily feel as though I am a part of it because I don’t see it all that often, and I don’t contribute much to it. If I participated in restoration projects within Centennial, I may feel more a part of it. With that said, I do feel connected to it. The park is a calm location, which offers quiet and beauty. I have grown comfortable with its sounds, sights, and feelings.
This is an updated bird’s eye map of my sight. The large circles represent mature trees, while small ones represent saplings. The long line across the page indicates where the hill drops off on the top of the page. Additionally, the rectangles show where trees are fallen and pieces lay. The squiggles at the top of the bridge are roots from the ground below.
