Tag Archives: biodiversity

A Beginning on the Bank of the Vlomankill

biodiversity, Communities, ecosystems, nature conservation, ,

I was standing on the bank of the Vlomankill in Henry Hudson Park a few days ago when a simple thought struck me with surprising force:

I need to understand the history of the land and water around the place I call home.

I’ve walked this stretch of the Vlomankill many times, but that morning something felt different. The stillness of the water, the stripped branches of winter, the muted light—together they made me feel as if I was standing in the middle of a story I didn’t yet know. A story shaped by geology, ecology, people, and choices made over centuries.

That’s when I realized: if I’m serious about stewardship, then this is where it begins. Not in theory, not in distant landscapes, but right here—learning the natural and cultural history of Bethlehem, New York, one walk, one question, one discovery at a time.

And as I thought about doing this work locally, it occurred to me that I could do the same in Indiana and Florida, the other places I spend part of each year. Three regions, each with their own story. Three places where I feel connected. And perhaps three starting points for a process that anyone could use to better understand the land beneath their feet.

So this Field Notes entry is the kickoff. A line in the sand—well, mud—where I begin documenting my observations, questions, and discoveries.

This is step one.

Where this leads, we’ll find out together. I already sense a larger article forming for The Nature of Things, one that explores not only this place but the broader idea of “discovering where you live.”

More soon.

Heath Dairy Farm: A Living Legacy with New Potential

Communities, ecosystems, Farming, soil health, Wildlife & Plants, , , ,

By Ron Dodson
The Nature of Things

Several weeks ago, I had the pleasure of meeting with Lauren Axford, the Open Space Coordinator for the Town of Bethlehem, New York. The purpose of our meeting was to discuss a project that I believe has enormous potential—not only for our town but as a model that other communities could replicate. That project is the Heath Dairy Farm initiative, a town-led effort to preserve and reimagine one of Bethlehem’s most iconic agricultural properties.

You can learn more about the project here: https://www.historicheathfarm.com

What drew me to the Heath Dairy Project wasn’t just the scenic beauty or the historical significance of the property—although both are impressive. It was the idea that this land could serve as a foundation for a new kind of agricultural planning, one that blends conservation landscape management with local food production. It struck me that this was exactly the kind of opportunity we need more of—an intersection of environmental stewardship, local economic development, and community sustainability.

Our conversation was not only productive, it was personal. When my family and I first moved to Bethlehem, the very first home we rented was on land that had once been part of the Heath Dairy Farm. The home was owned by the daughter of the farm’s longtime owner. So, in many ways, I’ve had a direct connection to this land since the day I arrived. That connection gives added meaning to my interest in helping guide its next chapter.

During our meeting, I shared a bit about my background and my long-standing work in environmental and agricultural planning. I also gave Lauren a copy of a book I wrote several years ago about the American legacy of family farming. Our shared values made it clear to me that there is real potential for meaningful collaboration on this project.

After the meeting, Lauren followed up with a kind message and introduced me to another person who is actively involved in shaping the next steps for the Heath Dairy Project. I look forward to meeting them soon and learning more about the town’s vision.

As part of this dialogue, I also plan to introduce an initiative I’ve been developing called F.A.R.M.S., which stands for Food and Resource Management Sustainability. This framework emphasizes the importance of keeping local food systems economically viable while embedding conservation into the fabric of working landscapes. It’s a concept that I believe could align perfectly with the goals of the Heath Dairy Project.

I’m excited about what’s ahead and look forward to offering any volunteer support I can to help make this project a true example of what conservation-minded community development can look like. Projects like this remind us that the best way to honor the past is to build a future that holds true to the values that came before—land, food, family, and community.

Embracing Nature’s Tapestry: The Shag Bark Hickory

biodiversity, ecosystems, Wildlife & Plants, , ,

In the heart of our forests, a silent guardian stands tall, its unique features weaving tales of history and ecological importance. The Shag Bark Hickory, native to North America, is a remarkable tree that deserves a closer look for its distinctive characteristics and the vital role it plays in our ecosystems. I photographed this one recently on a walk down the road where we live.

A Historical Tapestry

The Shag Bark Hickory, scientifically known as Carya ovata, has been witness to centuries of change. Indigenous communities revered it for its versatile uses, from crafting tools and weapons to utilizing its nutritious nuts as a valuable food source. Early American settlers, too, recognized its significance, incorporating its strong and flexible wood into their daily lives.

The Unique Shaggy Bark

What sets this tree apart is its striking, shaggy bark – long, vertical strips peeling away to reveal a mosaic of grays, browns, and creams. This distinctive feature not only provides the tree with protection from wildfires but also adds a touch of character to the woodland landscape.

Nutrient-Rich Bounty

Come fall, the Shag Bark Hickory generously bestows its bounty upon the forest floor in the form of large, edible nuts. These nuts, prized by both wildlife and humans, contribute to the ecological web by providing sustenance for various species, including squirrels, deer, and birds. The tree’s seeds, encased in a hard shell, ensure the continuation of its lineage.

Ecological Harmony

As a deciduous hardwood tree, the Shag Bark Hickory plays a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance. Its expansive root system prevents soil erosion, while its dense canopy offers shade to understory plants. Furthermore, the shedding of its leaves enriches the soil, fostering a nutrient cycle that sustains life in the forest ecosystem.

Conservation Considerations Despite its resilience, the Shag Bark Hickory faces challenges, including habitat loss and changing climate conditions. Conservation efforts play a vital role in ensuring the continued presence of this majestic tree, reminding us of the interconnectedness of all living beings.

In conclusion, the Shag Bark Hickory stands not just as a tree but as a living testament to the intricate dance of nature. Its historical significance, unique appearance, and ecological contributions make it a symbol of harmony in our forests. Let us celebrate and appreciate Shag Bark Hickory, ensuring that its story continues to be written for generations to come.

Discover the Delightful Little Wood Satyr

biodiversity, ecosystems, Wildlife & Plants, ,

Welcome nature enthusiasts and butterfly lovers! While we try and take as many hikes as we can in local nature preserves, we often find ourselves taking a walk down the road where we live. This was the case a few days ago, and Theresa noticed a small little butterfly sitting on the road. Although we see butterflies while strolling along most nature trails, seeing one sitting in the middle of an asphalt road was worth taking a closer look at. The species that she found was a delicate little beauty. Upon closer examination, we discovered that it was a Little Wood Satyr.

The Little Wood Satyr (Megisto cymela) is a small-sized butterfly species belonging to the family Nymphalidae. With its distinct wing pattern and gentle demeanor, this butterfly is a true gem of the forest.

The Little Wood Satyr boasts a wingspan of approximately 1.5 to 2 inches (4-5 cm), making it a modest-sized butterfly. Its upper wings feature a combination of earthy hues, including shades of brown, tan, and subtle hints of orange. These patterns cleverly camouflage the butterfly among the woodland foliage, providing excellent protection against predators.

The Little Wood Satyr butterfly is primarily found in the eastern regions of North America. Its range spans from southern Canada down to the Gulf Coast states of the United States, including parts of Texas. This species thrives in a variety of habitats, including open woodlands, meadows, and edges of forests.

Like other butterflies, the Little Wood Satyr undergoes a fascinating life cycle consisting of four stages: egg, larva (caterpillar), pupa (chrysalis), and adult butterfly. Females lay their eggs on grass blades or the undersides of leaves. The caterpillars feed on grasses, sedges, and other herbaceous plants, growing in size before pupating and transforming into adult butterflies.

The Little Wood Satyr is known for its slow and graceful flight, rarely venturing far from its preferred habitat. It tends to stay close to the ground, occasionally perching on low foliage or flowers to bask in the sun.

While the Little Wood Satyr butterfly is not currently considered endangered or threatened, it does face challenges due to habitat loss and fragmentation. Conservation efforts play a crucial role in preserving the delicate balance of ecosystems and ensuring the survival of this beautiful species. By protecting its natural habitat and supporting initiatives that promote biodiversity, we can contribute to the continued existence of these delightful creatures.

The Little Wood Satyr butterfly invites us into a realm of natural wonder and beauty. Its graceful flight and subtle charm make it a delight to observe in the wild. By appreciating and learning about these incredible creatures, we deepen our connection to the natural world and inspire future generations to cherish and protect our diverse ecosystems.

So, let us embrace the spirit of exploration, lace up our hiking boots, and venture into the  forests (or walk down your road!) to witness the magical dance of the Little Wood Satyr butterfly firsthand. Happy butterfly spotting!

A Flash of Red in a Field of White

biodiversity, Home Landscapes, Wildlife & Plants, , , , , , ,

As I was sitting in my office, staring out the window during the blizzard we recently had, I noticed something beautiful in the midst of all the dreary winter weather. There, perched on a snow-covered shrub, was a stunning adult male cardinal.

It was as if the bird knew I needed a little pick-me-up on this gray day. Its bright red feathers stood out against the white snow, and the crest on top of its head added an extra touch of elegance. I couldn’t help but stop and watch the bird for a few moments, taking in its beauty.

Seeing the cardinal in its natural habitat was a reminder of how amazing nature can be, even amid a cold and dreary winter day. There are still little moments of beauty that can bring us a moment of joy.

As I watched the cardinal fly away, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the little things in life that can bring us so much happiness. It’s important to take a moment to appreciate the beauty around us, even if it’s just a glimpse of a stunning bird through an office window.

So, if you’re feeling a little down today, look outside and see if you can spot something beautiful. Who knows, you’ll catch a glimpse of some beautiful birds too. It is the nature of things!

Five Rivers Environmental Education Center

Wildlife & Plants, , ,

When we first moved to the Albany, NY area in 1982 I opened my first office in Delmar, NY because I believed that is where the NY Department of Environmental Conservation was located. It actually took me several months to figure out that the main headquarters of DEC was actually several miles north of Delmar in a large building on Wolf Road, Colonie, NY. However, the State Non-gave and endangered species offices and leadership were located in Delmar at what is now called the Five Rivers Environmental Education Center. Five Rivers is located just a few miles from our home. The DEC staff located at Five Rivers, became some of my closest friends and comrades during my 5 year stint working for the National Audubon Society in the Northeast.

Five Rivers Environmental Education Center is a living museum comprising over 450 acres of fields, forests, and wetlands. Located in the Capital District, the center provides a variety of easily accessible programs and services for individuals, families and organized groups. In recognition of outstanding interpretive programming, the National Park Service has designated Five Rivers a National Environmental Study Area.

There is a visitor center with interactive displays and exhibits, built in June 2017. Before heading out on the trails, a stop in the visitor center to learn about the habitats and wildlife of Five Rivers, our history, and the green features of the new building is a treat.

Over a century ago, much of the vicinity around what is now the Five Rivers was covered by extensive orchards. As the Great Depression took hold, many hard-scrabble farms could no longer make ends meet. In 1933, the New York State Conservation Department purchased two of these farms to develop the Delmar Experimental Game Farm. At the time, populations of upland game birds and waterfowl were in serious decline. The primary mission of the facility was to learn more about the propagation and management of these species.

From 1933-36, the Civilian Conservation Corps Camp S-72 put up buildings, fences and developed access roads throughout the property to prepare the site for game farming. CCC crews also created ponds by damming the Vlomankill, using limestone blocks salvaged from the abandoned Watervliet Lock of the old Erie Canal. In succeeding years, CCC crews created several additional duck-rearing ponds and erected several additional buildings for brooding, hatching and rearing upwards of 100,000 grouse and pheasant chicks per year. Each fall, the upland game birds and waterfowl were released on state lands throughout New York. The Canada geese that nest at Five Rivers today are thought to be descended from birds originally raised here.

In 1941, the Department established a Wildlife Research Center on site to expand on-going pathology studies, as well as to field test innovative theories in wildlife management. Techniques developed on site such as aging deer via dentition, perfecting the cannon-net and modeling wildlife populations via biometrics revolutionized the wildlife management profession nation-wide.

So as to re-direct increasing public interest away from the sensitive conservation research activities on site, in 1948 staff began developing a modest exhibition of caged wildlife in the area adjacent to the main parking lot. The menagerie came to be known far and wide as the Delmar Zoo, and firmly established the site as a vibrant educational institution. Tens of thousands of families and school group visited this remarkable collection annually. In 1970 there was a major reorganization of the Conservation Department, from which the current Department of Environmental Conservation emerged. As a result of this reorganization, priorities of the Department were reoriented and the Game Farm and Zoo were closed.

Because the site had become such an important community asset, a group of concerned citizens organized and successfully convinced the state to transform the abandoned site into an environmental education center. Thereupon, the Department developed a rustic amphitheater, a series of nature trails and refurbished a former sign shop as a Visitor Center. The new facility was opened to the public in June of 1972. It was renamed the Five Rivers Environmental Education Center, a name suggested by SUNY Albany meteorologist Dr. Vincent Schaefer, to denote the five rivers which comprise the watershed within the Center’s service area, namely the Hudson, Mohawk, Hoosic and Sacandaga rivers and the Schoharie Creek.

The Nature of Things – Here and There

Wildlife & Plants, , , , , , , ,

Field Trips – It was another hot and dry week here in Upstate NY. But we did manage to get in a couple of short hikes and a couple of walks down the road and back. Most days in addition to the heat, the humidity has been very high too. We actually went to Hollyhock Hollow Sanctuary on 2 occasions last week, mostly to explore the dry creek bed. My office was at Hollyhock Hollow for 26 years and I don’t recall seeing the creek as dry as it is this year.

 

 

Nature-based Communities – I have fully launched my initiative that I call the Nature-based Communities Initiative, which is a campaign to get people in regions across the country to become more connected with nature and natural resource management. I’m focusing on 3 regions myself, one here in New York, one in Florida and one in Indiana. I’m trying to practice what I preach and then report on my personal efforts in hope that others in various regions around the United States might decide to take on similar actions where they live. Want to learn more CLICK HERE

 

Conservation Landscapes – This initiative is aimed at offering information that I hope is useful for landowner/managers who might care to manage their landscapes with nature and natural resources in mind. This site and blog is essentially a series of fact sheet type posts on various topics that provides information on landscape management for people to consider using where they live, work and play. To see an example: CLICK HERE

 

The Conservation Company – In an effort to keep items out of landfills and to generate money for conservation and environmental education project, I resell items on eBay. Sales have generally been slow, and as I have heard sales has been slow for most people who are resellers. So, I have just been listing, listing, listing, and reducing prices too. CLICK HERE for my latest update on my reselling efforts.

 

Letters from a Foxhole – This project is not directly connected with nature, but it is connected with my dad. I’ve continued to post a series of Letters that Dad wrote home to his sister during his time in the Army during World War 2. If that sounds like something that might interest, you CLICK HERE to see more.

Scientists Identify World’s Largest Water Lily Species

biodiversity, nature conservation, , ,

Forget about frogs, this water lily species is big enough for humans to hop around on. Scientists have just identified a third species of giant water lily, after a rather large one at London’s Kew Gardens prompted horticulturists to suspect it did not fit into the two previously known groups. Native to Bolivia in South America, the species is the largest of its kind and has been named Victoria boliviana.

The aquatic plants have flowers that turn from white to pink and can grow to 3 meters in the wild. The biggest, located in Bolivia, reaches a full 3.2 meters, or about 10.5 feet. “In the face of a fast rate of biodiversity loss, describing new species is a task of fundamental importance; we hope that our multidisciplinary framework might inspire other researchers who are seeking approaches to rapidly and robustly identify new species,” said Kew scientist Natalia Przelomska. If you want to see it for yourself, all three giant water lily species float side-by-side at the Princess of Wales Conservatory at Kew Gardens.

The Albany Pine Bush

Parks & Sanctuaries, Wildlife & Plants, , , , ,

We moved to Albany County, New York in the autumn of 1982. I hate to admit that it has taken us 38 years to discover the Albany Pine Bush. Discover might be a bit harsh because we knew it was there and had attended numerous meetings in the Pine Bush Discovery Center over the years. We had even taken a couple of short walks in the preserve and one year attended the springtime Lupine Festival held at the Discovery Center.

But it was this year that we really started to explore the Pine Bush. We do not live that far from the Pine Bush Discovery Center and decided to begin our exploration at that location. Since then we have discovered that the Pine Bush Preserve includes over 3,200 acres of land, 20 miles of hiking trails that are organized around 12 different trailhead locations spread across the preserve in various “units.”

So far this summer we have visited 8 of the 12 trailhead locations and hiked on numerous trails and trail sections. Future posts in this blog will highlight each of the trailheads and trails that we visit.

The Albany Pine Bush is referred to locally as the Pine Bush and is one of the largest of the remaining 20 inland pine barrens in the world. It is centrally located in New York’s Capital District within Albany and Schenectady counties, between the cities of Albany and Schenectady. The Albany Pine Bush was formed thousands of years ago, following the drainage of Glacial Lake Albany.

The Albany Pine Bush is the sole remaining undeveloped portion of pine barrens that once covered over 40 square miles and is considered one of the best remaining examples of an inland pine barrens ecosystem in the world. By 2008 it included all parcels of the Albany Pine Bush Preserve (a state nature preserve spanning 3,200 acres, the properties that connect these protected parcels, and some of the surrounding areas that abut the preserve. The 135-acre Woodlawn Preserve and surrounding areas in Schenectady County are the western sections of the Pine Bush but separated geographically by other properties in the Albany Pine Bush Preserve in Albany County.

Historically regarded as a barren, desolate, and dangerous to cross, the Pine Bush has come to be known as a historical, cultural, and environmental asset to the Capital District and Hudson Valley regions of New York. It is home to the Karner blue butterfly, an endangered species first identified by author Vladimir Nabokov in 1944 using a type specimen from the Pine Bush. In 2014, Albany Pine Bush was designated as a National Natural Landmark by the National Park Service.

The Pine Bush is governed by the Pine Bush Commission and supported by several agencies. See who the Commission Board Members are by CLICKING HERE

Although it has taken us nearly 40 years to really discover the Albany Pine Bush, we are now making up for lost time. We are indeed lucky to live close to this special natural feature.

Forests

Communities, Neighborhoods, Parks & Sanctuaries, Wildlife & Plants, ,

Forests are the dominant terrestrial ecosystem of Earth and are distributed around the globe. Forests account for 75% of the gross primary production of the Earth’s biosphere and contain 80% of the Earth’s plant biomass. Net primary production is estimated at 21.9 gigatons carbon per year for tropical forests, 8.1 for temperate forests, and 2.6 for boreal forests.

Human society and forests influence each other in both positive and negative ways. Forests provide ecosystem services to humans and serve as tourist attractions. Forests can also affect people’s health. Human activities, including harvesting forest resources, can negatively affect forest ecosystems.