Here Come the Bison!

         Today we had the incredible opportunity to participate in the bison round-up at the Fort Worth Nature Center. I have been looking forward to this ever since first hearing about it, and the experience surpassed any expectations I had.  Participating in a bison round-up is something I likely never would have done if it were not for this opportunity, and likely will never have a chance to do again, so this truly was a once in a lifetime experience for me.

        When we arrived to the nature center, we were greeted by the staff and informed that the vet was running about an hour behind. The staff member talked about how at first the vet was going to be early, then late, as well as how the vet's clinic was currently very understaffed so it was difficult to coordinate a day with him in the first place. This discussion was surprising to me, as I am used to the business world in which the time you give is the time you are expected, no matter the circumstances. This made me realize, though, that the business industry can afford to be that way due to the ample resources it has, whereas nonprofit organizations like the nature center do not have as much control and have to be much more flexible and accommodating with their partners. I also was impressed at how many volunteers they had to assist with the bison roundup. I expected the round-up to be completely run by staff with us simply observing behind a fence, so I was shocked that there were both other volunteers and that we would all be playing an active role in the round-up. I found it amazing to see how this event brings together a community of people who are all passionate about nature and animals.

        As we were waiting, I had the opportunity to talk with several of the staff members and volunteers. As I was talking with one of the staff members, he asked me about logistics for the nature center hiring unpaid interns, with specific interest in getting a marketing intern since he says they currently do not have anyone on the team with those skills. This discussion was surprising to me because, while he was teaching me about nature and the round-up, I was actually able to teach him things about the business and internship world. I think this conversation is a great example of the benefits a course like this can have, in which it brings together people of all different backgrounds and experiences to learn and grow from one another. Additionally, in this time I also had the opportunity to talk with a frequent volunteer for the nature center, during which he even brought over a scorpion he had found under a log (see picture 1). I personally was slightly terrified to see it, but it also was cool to see this species that I had heard so much about in person. 

Picture 1: Scorpion

       Once some anticipation had been built up, the vet finally arrived and we were able to get started with the round-up! My assigned role was to manage one of the gates on the 'shoot' that the bison went through right before getting to the vet's location (see picture 2 for the area I was working). 

Picture 2: The area I was working the gates

        It was incredible to watch the whole process it entailed in order to get bison to the vet, as I had  never previously considered how truly difficult such a seemingly easy task would be. First, one of the staff members would gradually bring the bison in small groups of about five to the gated area. Then, one at a time they would gradually be pushed through a series of gates, until eventually they got to the "tub" and were sent through the final shoot up to the vet. Throughout this entire process, all of the volunteers had to be coordinated through constant communication to ensure they were ready for each next step, as if not there could be some major consequences. When I was not actively having to work my gate, I was able to squat down and look through the fences to see the bison at the various spots along the route (see picture 3). Additionally, I got to watch the bison be freed after the vet, which was really enjoyable because you could see their relief as they got to run back into nature (see picture 4). However, it was difficult to be in my location because I was able to hear and see how upset the animals would get once they were trapped at the vet, as they clearly did not enjoy being trapped or getting their shots and other necessary treatments. However, I had to remind myself that all of this was for their benefit to ensure that they could continue living healthy and high-quality lives.

Picture 3: Watching the bison through the fence

Picture 4: The bison runs home to nature

        Overall, this day was an amazing and unique experience that I likely never would have gotten to do if it were not for taking this course. It definitely was a day that pushed me out of my comfort zone in many ways, such as seeing the scorpion, but it also allowed me to learn so much about bison and the nature center in general. I am excited to return to the nature center this Wednesday for our final day of volunteering!

Thank you for reading!

Emily

A Minnesota Fall Break

        For TCU's fall break at the beginning of October, I decided to travel home to Minnesota. I had some other travel options, but ultimately I wanted to travel home primarily to see my family, but also because I knew it would be at the peak of the fall season in Minnesota. Fall is actually my favorite season, as I love the crisp weather and changing leaves, so I was excited to be home and experience a true fall (rather than the 90 degree weather we were experiencing in Texas).

        I took a 7:05am flight home on Thursday morning, which got me in to Minnesota at 9:30am with the whole day free for activities. As I stepped outside, I immediately took in a deep breath of the cool 60 degree temperature. This is the best type of weather, as it is where you may be a little chilly and bundled up in the morning, but then as the day goes on it warms up to the point where it is great weather you can comfortably be outside in. My mom picked me up from the airport and then we embarked on our 20-30 minute drive home. Throughout the drive, all I could do was look outside the window at the beautiful leaves surrounding the road. Minnesota is a greenery filled state, with countless trees and nature surrounding our highways and roads. But, at this time, these roads were filled with the colors of green, yellow, orange, and red, and it encapsulated me to the point where I could not help but stare and take in all of the colors (see picture 1). This admiration was a trend for me throughout the weekend. In every car drive, I found myself repeatedly pointing out how beautiful the trees were to whoever was in the car with me. I tried to take advantage of this beautiful fall by being outside as much as I could, engaging in activities such as going to the apple orchard, shooting at trap and skeet, and sitting outside by a warm fire.

Picture 1: Fall leaves surrounding the road

        As I neared the end of my weekend at home, I decided to go on a long walk so that I could really experience and appreciate the nature I had been admiring. This walk was actually done in the same neighborhood that I completed my first journal entry on back in August, and it was amazing to see how similar but different the area looked with the changing of seasons. Please see some of my favorite photos from my walk below:

Picture 2: Ombre of leaves

Picture 3: Red and yellow leaves

Picture 4: Close-up of leaves on tree

Picture 5: Close-up of leaves on ground

Picture 6: Leaves spiraling around pole

        Throughout the walk, I found myself admiring all of the beautiful colors and leaves, as they essentially created an ombre effect of red, orange, yellow, and green in a way that was amazing and simply had to be appreciated. While I was on this walk, I also found myself reflecting on what is next for me when I graduate from TCU this spring. I personally am torn between whether I want to live in Texas or Minnesota after graduation. There are obviously many factors at play such as family, friends, and jobs, but I also find the weather playing a major role as well in this decision. I believe that weather impacts my mood, and I love that Texas remains warm and sunny throughout the winter rather than the dark and gloomy Minnesota winters. However, when I visit Minnesota in the summer and fall, I am reminded of how much I love and miss the seasons, and it makes me want to move back there after graduation. This trip really gave me a newfound appreciation for Minnesota, as I saw the nature surrounding me in a way I had never seen it before through my greater appreciation and understanding of nature from this course. Regardless of my decision, I find it amazing how deep and introspective of thoughts nature was able to bring up in me, and I really think it shows the power that nature can have. It reminded me of the Emily Dickenson poem and discussion we had earlier this semester about nature being a reflective and even religious experience for many, and I really do believe that is what I experienced while on this walk.

        Overall, I had an incredible nature experience being home for fall in Minnesota. This experience gave me a newfound appreciation and perspective on the nature I grew up with for 18 years, and I think it is a great demonstration of the growth that has taken place in me throughout this semester.

Thank you for reading!

Emily

Cutting down the Privet

        This past week in class, we began our five week stint of volunteering at the Fort Worth Nature Center. This opportunity to get out of the classroom and volunteer in the Fort Worth community was actually the primary reason that I chose to take this course, so I was excited to get started. The drive to the nature center was about thirty minutes, and as we were driving I realized that I had absolutely no idea where I was, as I had never driven far in that direction. Similar to the paddling trip, this realization and the fact that I had never been to the nature center before disappointed me, as it is such a beautiful natural area so close to campus that I should have been taking advantage of for the past three years. As we were driving, I was researching more into the center since I knew little about it, and the first sentence in their about me section really stood out to me: "The Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge (FWNC&R) is a natural area comprised of forests, prairies, and wetlands allowing you to step back in time and experience what the Fort Worth/Dallas Metroplex was like in the early 20th century." This quote made me excited to see all the types of nature this area has to offer, and I also found it particular interesting that they compared it to what you would have seen in DFW prior to all the development and industrialization.

    

Picture 1: Before photo of the privet forest

    Once we arrived to the center, we learned that we would be tasked with using sheers to cut down privet, an invasive species that was taking over an area that the center would soon be using for animals' homes. Right when we arrived at the area, I was shocked by the sheer amount of privet, as it basically looked like a privet forest (see picture 1). The plant was pretty though, and it did not look like a weed or problem plant like I expected after hearing the employees describe privet. While we were cutting down the privet, I could not help but reflect on how counterintuitive it seemed to be doing so. I understand the privet was an invasive species and being cut down to clear the space for other uses, but from a nature perspective, it seemed wrong and destructive to be cutting down such a healthy plant. For example, after cutting down one chunk, I noticed a caterpillar on the branch (see picture 3), and I found myself feeling bad knowing that I had just removed that animals home. I realized that cutting down the privet does not only affect the plant, but also affects the greater ecosystem of the space, and it made me wonder about the reach of the impact this small but mighty plant has on the area.

Picture 2: Close-up of Privet

Picture 3: Caterpillar found on the privet

        As I was having this internal debate over cutting down the privet, I also found myself thinking about the lead respondent discussion about Edward Abbey that we had the previous week in class. I wonder what Abbey would think about cutting down the privet. On one hand, it is an invasive species, but on the other it is growing naturally in the area and who are we to decide to cut down such a healthy plant for our own purposes. I think Abbey would have been on the second side, and believed that the privet should be left alone to grow as it pleases. More generally, while being at the nature center, I also was reflecting on our debate of preservation vs. accessibility, as well as Abbey's three steps for National Parks. Although this center is not a national park, I think these discussions still reign relevant for it. I do not feel like I have seen enough of it to fully know the amount of cars vs. people walking, roads, and jobs of the workers, but I do plan to pay close attention to that in these next four weeks so that I can see how the center compares to some of the national parks we discussed. 

        Overall, I really enjoyed our first week of volunteering, and am excited to continue exploring and helping at the nature center. This weekend is fall break, and I will be going home to Minnesota where fall is in full swing, so my goal is to spend as much time outside as possible to really enjoy how beautiful nature is at this time of year. Thank you for reading!

- Emily

My Extended Experience

        In his book, Outside Lies Magic, John Stilgoe writes "Outside lies utterly ordinary space open to any casual explorer willing to find the extraordinary. Outside lies unprogrammed awareness that at times becomes directed serendipity. Outside lies magic." Inspired by this quote, I decided to participate in the paddling excursion for my extended experience, and I focused on truly exploring and looking for the extraordinary within the ordinary space. 

            This trip began with us meeting in the rec center, and then loading up into a van with the kayaks and canoes in toe. The first thing I noticed is how much infrastructure and organization the rec center has put in place for these types of outdoor excursions. I have previously seen the emails about excursions through the rec center, but honestly, I had always ignored them and figured it was people meeting at the location with their own personal supplies and tools. Now that I have seen what these experiences look like firsthand, I am disappointed that I did not take advantage of these opportunities sooner, as the rec center seems to put on great outdoor experiences that allows students to get off campus and enjoy the serene areas in Fort Worth. In fact, after telling my roommates about my experience, we are planning on all signing up for a trip together before we graduate!

            After signing the waivers, we loaded up into the van and headed to Benbrook Lake. On the drive, I found myself looking around and admiring all of the grassland and hills that are around Fort Worth. I have to admit that I often stay in my TCU bubble, rarely going outside a 15-minute radius of campus, so this area was completely new and unseen for me. As I was reflecting on these new sites, I became disappointed in myself as I realized that I have not taken advantage of all the nature experiences Fort Worth has to offer. I give myself the excuse that I am too busy and do not have time to do things like that, but having this scheduled trip showed me that I do have time for it, I just need to put in effort to plan and organize it into my schedule. As I have discussed previously, I am originally from the land of 10,000 lakes, so I grew up around lakes and being on the water is what I would describe as my “happy place.” Because of this, in my last year here at TCU I am setting the goal to put in effort to do one new outdoor activity each month. Currently, some ideas I have are paddle boarding, renting a boat, and hiking on the paths in the Fort Worth Nature Center.

I also do have to note that on this drive, I learned that Texas lakes have water snakes in them, which absolutely terrified me as I have a major fear of snakes. We do not have snakes in the water in Minnesota! One of the guides put my mind at ease slightly when she told me that she has never seen a snake on the excursions and that they typically are in wooded areas by the shore, and I was relieved that there were no snake sightings in our time on the lake. Clearly, I am different from Abbey as I could not have a snake living freely in my home or in my clothes (I got goosebumps even reading that part in the text).

            After a short twenty to thirty minutes filled with great conversations and nature music, special shoutout to the Edward Abbey song that seemed historically accurate to what we learned in class, we arrived at Benbrook Lake. We then unloaded the canoes and brought them down to the water. I applied bug spray all over my body, as I also have a fear of bugs and feel that I am constantly being bitten no matter what I do, so I wanted to make sure I took all the precautions possible. As I was doing so, I could not help but think about what Abbey and other environmentalists would think about bug spray, as it is technically interfering with nature that was in the location before us. These types of thoughts are one key thing that this course has opened my mind too, as I would have never previously thought about bug sprays impact on nature.

            Once we got in the canoe, it took Abby and I some time to get the hand of paddling. It was at this point that I realized I had never canoed before, so it definitely took some time for me to learn how to do it. But I do have to say that I got the hang of it and even became a very skilled turner in doing the backwards paddle. Right when we got on the water, I was stunned by the fact that we were the only ones on the water, as I am used to busy lakes and have never seen one this still. It was absolutely beautiful. I also found the view incredible simply in how large the space felt, as it seemed like the lake went on endlessly like the ocean, yet it was filled with completely still and motionless water. I truly have never seen anything like that, and it made my experience extraordinary since I was appreciating the simple, everyday view of a lake in a completely new way.

Picture 1: First couple minutes on the lake

Picture 2: Beginning of the sunset

            After paddling for some time, the sun began to set, painting the sky with a yellow/orange ombre effect. I usually would be disappointed with the sun setting behind the tree line, but I even found that beautiful, as the trees provided an added level of beauty to the scene. 

Picture 3: The sunset from my perspective

Picture 4: Close-up of the sunset

        Once the sunlight fully disappeared, the stars briefly began to appear in the sky. It was honestly incredible to see, as I have never had an experience like that where I was watching the sky for so long to actually see stars appear almost one by one. I was particularly grateful that, at this time, I was located right next to the student guide, as he was incredibly knowledgeable about the planets and stars. He showed us Jupiter, Polaris, and other constellations in the sky. Particularly, I found myself reflecting on Polaris. Also known as the North Star, it remains still within the sky while the entire northern sky moves around it and is often described as a way to find home no matter where you are. I knew this previously, but actually seeing the North Star while sitting in the wilderness on this empty lake uniquely put this concept into perspective in an emotional way for me. I know that the rec center also offers the full moon paddles, so I hope to also participate in one of those because, similar to stars, I see them everyday but have never taken the time to simply just observe and reflect on it.

Picture 5: End of the sunset

            Once we had watched the stars for a while, we paddled back to the shore and loaded up the trailer to head home. While we were loading up, the park ranger told us we only had 10 minutes before we had to be out, so we had perfect timing in getting off. On the drive back, I realized that this experience had been therapeutic for me. I went into the evening stressed about the busy weekend and week I had coming up but being in these outdoors completely eased my anxiety. I was not stressed about all I had coming up, but instead genuinely enjoyed and lived in the moment. It seemed to have cleared my head, and it honestly put me in the best headspace for the rest of the week. As Emily Dickenson wrote and we discussed in class, nature can often be a religious experience for people, and that is what I had this evening as I was admiring all of God’s creations.

            I honestly believe that I experienced the outdoor magic that Stillgoe describes in his book, and I left this experience with both a newfound appreciation for nature and motivation to put in deliberate effort to have more extended experiences with nature going forward. In reflecting on this experience, I found myself thinking about Walt Whitman’s piece “Miracles,” in which he wrote: “To me every hour of the light and dark is a miracle, every cubic inch of space is a miracle, every square yard of the surface of the earth is spread with the same, every foot of the interior swarms with the same.” Admittedly, I still struggle with fully immersing myself in nature, as I do not like getting dirty or being around bugs and reptiles. However, I do feel like this experience helped me to make significant strides in appreciating the miracle of nature that surrounds me on an everyday basis.

Picture 6: Eagle-eye perspective from my canoe