When I returned to my phenology place for the final time, I was greeted with a new blanket of snow, higher water levels, and some fresh tracks.
Centennial woods was originally inhabited by the Abenaki tribe of Native Americans, however the City of Burlington acquired the land in late 19th century. In 1974, UVM acquired the land and set up regulations for taking care of the land now often explored by students and community members alike. There are a series of trails that wind through the diverse 700 acre area. Additionally, the meandering curves of the brook suggest that its path has not been majorly disturbed by human activity. My place is off the beaten path, and so is less disturbed by hiker traffic. However, the lack of old growth trees in the area suggests that there was disturbance at one point, likely by agriculture, especially since growing crops near a water source makes irrigation significantly easier.
Sources:
“Centennial Woods Natural Area: History.” UVM Libraries Research Guides at UVM Libraries, University of Vermont, 7 Mar. 2016, researchguides.uvm.edu/centennialwoods/history.
UVM Natural Areas: A Resolution of the Board of Trustees. UVM Natural Areas: A Resolution of the Board of Trustees, UVM Board of Trustees, 1974.