Day two in Long Island, was as enjoyable as it was fast. Yes, fast, everyone is driving 10 mph above the speed limit, and when they see my Massachusetts plates I swear they up it to 15!
Before the project start-up meeting and exhibit evaluation at Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge, I visited the observation deck and walked the Black Tupelo Trail.
Thinking it best to experience the Refuge from the outside before going inside for a day-long meeting, I stepped gingerly onto the icy floating observation dock for a closer look at the shifting ice and water at the shoreline. It was crackling weather, the movement of ranches and water occasionally filling the otherwise silent air with snaps, crackles, and pops.
Or was that a shotgun? It was hunting season! The residents will call the head ranger and ask her to remove the white-tailed deer found in their yard. Yes, for real!
From the mass of footprints along the Tupelo trail, it’s clear I am not the only cold-weather nut to take the 1.75-mile hike to Indian Landing.
A QR code informed me of the presence of the Southern Pine beetle, It is hard to imagine it here at 25 degrees, but the larva may be dormant. Seeing only two pitch pine trees on the trail is evidence enough of the deadly effect of this blight.
The most important topic of today’s meeting explored how three exhibit areas will be changed to reflect the reality of Southern Pine beetles and other climate change drivers. Other themes included are the long-term effects of Hurricane Sandy, your personal footprint, and how the Refuge serves the community by assuring stormwater and providing species diversity.
Check back tomorrow for the final day on the Island.