Skiing and Sloshing Around for Science

As an intern at Vesper Meadow this past year, I have been lucky enough to witness the magic of the changing seasons, flora, and fauna within this healing landscape. Today, in the heat of summer, the dry grasses are going to seed, and fluttering wings of orange, white, pale blue, yellow, and black butterflies dance among patches of goldenrods. I reflect back on a year ago, when volunteers gathered to collect seeds

For my capstone project at Southern Oregon University, I explored the riparian waterways of Vesper Meadow by snow and by sun. One of the components of my project was to document changes to Latgawa and Spencer Creek through photos, telling the powerful story of restoration over time. The other two elements of my project involved the development of the native plant restoration area, and mapping Camas (Camassia quamash) density in the lower meadow.

First, we had to establish specific posts along the creeks, tracking GPS coordinates and creating a protocol for getting the photograph just right. Next - prepping the snowshoes and skis for a winter outing. Bringing along my GoPro and sunglasses, I captured several photos for each of the 18 locations alongside the creeks with our team. Even under the heavy snow, it was clear that the installation of PALS (post assisted log structures) was making an incredible impact on the water levels within the meadow. 

How often do you get a chance to go cross country skiing for science?

First, we had to establish specific posts along the creeks, tracking GPS coordinates and creating a protocol for getting the photograph just right. Next - prepping the snowshoes and skis for a winter outing. Bringing along my GoPro and sunglasses, I captured several photos for each of the 18 locations alongside the creeks with our team. Even under the heavy snow, it was clear that the installation of PALS (post assisted log structures) was making an incredible impact on the water levels within the meadow. 

After the snow melted, I returned once more. This time, with muck boots. Back at home, I was struck by the difference between seasons as I compared snow-covered banks to lush willows in bloom. One thing is clear from this project - the waters of Latgawa and Spencer Creek are full and strong, bringing life and restoring vitality to this abundant landscape.