DEBRIEFING - Journal Entry #6

Now it’s time to reflect on my experience in this Colloquium class from both a personal and an academic perspective.  I can begin be saying I found that, by going through the assignments, I obtained a better insight into what was going on in our world.  Before I began this class, I had knowledge of endangered species.  However, one thing I didn’t know was that endangered species are on a few restaurants menus.  I also hadn’t given much thought about how eliminating a predator species would have such an enormous effect on a food species - even causing some to grow immensely population wise.  I developed a better understanding of world hunger issues, just how severe the issue actually is, along with what great things different organizations such as ECHO are doing to help the situation at hand.  The readings, video clips, and power point slides really opened my eyes to what is happening in the world every day, and how some of the simplest things can make an enormous difference with respect to the effect on our climate.   

Isn’t it ironic that we are creating large scale CO2 emissions which speed up the process of global warming on our planet, yet we are doing so very little to curb our output of carbon emissions?  This is quite disheartening, and encourages me to seriously consider all the technology that could be utilized as a cure for our addiction to fossil fuels.  Yes, we are getting better at removing the existing and remaining oil out of the ground, but our focus needs to change towards working on better solutions to use less destructive energy sources. 

These last 10 weeks have stirred a desire within me to get more involved to make our planet a better place to live.  As I move closer towards attaining my degree, one means by which I can get involved is to focus my job search on companies that are more environmentally aware, and which actually implement strategies and mission statements that take care of the planet in as many ways possible.  I may not be able to directly affect change at my chosen place of future employment, but one thing is certain – my future employer can do business with our environment in mind, and my efforts will be fruitful. 

I further enjoyed the many adventures and quality time I was able to spend with my wife on several of the required field trips. ECHO farm is my choice as favorite field trip.  Witnessing the many things being done locally, as well as globally, was pretty terrific.  It was also really good to visit the natural environments such as the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, and be able to reconnect with nature – something we seem to do less and less of as a society.  These wonderful natural parks and preserves are something we should all hold dear to our hearts and not let disappear.  I had forgotten how peaceful and serene these places can be, and what a sense of place they can provide. 

The subject of sustainability and our environment is one that I believe every school and college should teach and require of their students.  I found the most difficult part of this class was trying to keep up with the workload.  At times, it felt like information overload, with all the readings and writings required.  But overall, this class is so informative, up to date with the information provided and studied, and having the best practical application to real everyday awareness, making it out to be a lot of fun in the long run!  Thank you for sharing your knowledge and experience with me!!

J.N. DING DARLING REFLECTION - Journal Entry #5

The Red Mangrove Overlook

My trip to the J.N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge started out as an afternoon motorcycle ride with my lovely wife. The day was beautiful, warm, and sunny – perfect for riding! 

When we first arrived at the Refuge, it was revealed we had just missed the last tram! Conversely, it was suggested that we instead travel along Wildlife Drive, which we opted to do. The drive was quite enjoyable, and we could break at any time along the right side of the road to take a closer look at the surrounds.

Amazing Root System

As we travelled along, we discovered that the Refuge comprises of more than 7,600 acres, and the surroundings have been intentionally preserved in a very natural state. There are essentially several dissimilar habitats which structure the Refuge. The estuarine habitat consists of open waters, sea grass beds, mangrove islands, and mud flats. The fresh water habitat encompasses open water ponds, swales, and West Indian hardwood hammocks. The two salt water impoundments are used habitually by wading and other water birds.

The water levels follow natural tide fluctuations, and levels within the two impoundments are artificially lowered to correspond with fall and spring shorebird migrations. Lowering the levels contributes to providing an optimal feeding habitat for the various birds that make use of the Refuge.

One striking similarity to the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary is the use of controlled fires to sustain the plant communities, and to replicate the natural fire cycles. These burns allow for new plant growth, aid in controlling non-native growth, and allow for the elimination of copious underbrush.

Peaceful and Serene

Another distinctive constituent is that this Refuge is part of the largest, undeveloped mangrove ecosystem within the United States. The Refuge is also home to numerous threatened and endangered species which reside here at least part-time. Some of these include the Eastern Indigo Snake, Florida Manatee, Atlantic Loggerhead Turtle, Peregrine Falcon, and Bald Eagle.

J.N. Ding Darling
http://www.fws.gov/dingdarling/About/DingDarling.html

We owe a debt of gratitude to a political cartoonist named Jay Norwood “Ding” Darling. Mr. Darling had an enormous measure in the efforts to preclude the sale of land to developers on Sanibel Island. At the urging of Mr. Darling, President Harry Truman signed an Executive Order in 1945, creating the Sanibel National Wildlife Refuge. Later, in 1967, the refuge became the J.N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge in honor of its pioneer conservationist.

The Observation Tower

At several of our roadside stops, we noticed some good sized fish jumping quite high out of the waters! Having fished for salmon up north, I was not surprised to see this. My wife, however, was in complete amazement! Although I could not determine the particular type of fish, I did explain they were more than liking jumping to escape being eaten! Another note to ponder is our surprise that people were allowed to fish the waters. Being a National Wildlife Refuge with threatened and endangered species residing on the premises, one would believe otherwise!

Can You Spot the Rabbit?

At one point, we were able to park and walk the Shell Mound Trail. There was a funky smell to the air, but we were fortunate to catch a glimpse of several bright red cardinals, and snapped a picture of a rabbit peering out at us.

On the Shell Mound Trail

In closing, I would like to leave you with a quote from the Refuge which I found quite apropos – "Leave nothing but footprints, take nothing but pictures."

CORKSCREW REFLECTION - Journal Entry #4

At One of the Lettuce Lakes

I quite enjoyed my visit to the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary. The usual afternoon rain held out until the very end of our trip, and my wife and I were fortunate to witness some extraordinary things while there. 

I would like to start this blog with a bit of history learned. Long ago, most of Florida was open pine forest. These forests were created and kept open by periodic natural fires, causing the native plants to adapt and acquire ways in which to endure such disasters. These same plants have also had to acquire a means to tolerate the occasional summer flooding. Regrettably, most natural wildfire is now prevented by human development, thus the National Audubon Society must help mimic the effect of wildfires by executing what is termed a “controlled burn.” These burns are done every few years, and are an essential part of the preservation of natural resources in the Pine Flatwoods.

It was remarkable to read on some of the interpretive signage that this stunning area was originally logged commencing in the 1800’s, and had some of the areas heaviest logging by the 1930’s. It was additionally incredible to learn that, somehow, the old growth Cypress managed to survive this logging era, and remained unscathed. Appreciatively, this was acknowledged, and Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary was protected and made into the largest, and oldest, virgin Bald Cypress forest in all of North America! 

Snake!!!!

As we journeyed on, I happened to catch from the corner of my eye the coiling of a snake. Although we were not certain of the species, we both felt that it was most likely a member of the Cottonmouth family based on the guide we had purchased at the Visitor Center.

A Strangler Fig

We were able to recognize the Strangler Fig, and were quite amused by the fact that, although it gives the impression of growing up the host tree, the Strangler Fig actually cultivates from the top down! This is because Strangler Figs had to adapt to competition on the forest floor. There is diminutive light at the bottom of the forest, and many competitors for any water and nutrients which might be available. Thus, the Strangler Fig begins its existence at the top as a tiny epiphyte, attaining its nutrients from the sun, rain, and leaf litter collected on its host. The Strangler Fig eventually sends out many roots which meander down the trunk of the host tree. Once they touch ground, these roots resolutely plant themselves. Ultimately, the roots grow copiously, encompassing their host, lastly fusing together, squeezing the life out of the host tree, causing the host to perish from strangulation.

At the Lookout at the End of the Boardwalk

We were able to recognize the Strangler Fig, and were quite amused by the fact that, although it gives the impression of growing up the host tree, the Strangler Fig actually cultivates from the top down! This is because Strangler Figs had to adapt to competition on the forest floor. There is diminutive light at the bottom of the forest, and many competitors for any water and nutrients which might be available. Thus, the Strangler Fig begins its existence at the top as a tiny epiphyte, attaining its nutrients from the sun, rain, and leaf litter collected on its host. The Strangler Fig eventually sends out many roots which meander down the trunk of the host tree. Once they touch ground, these roots resolutely plant themselves. Ultimately, the roots grow copiously, encompassing their host, lastly fusing together, squeezing the life out of the host tree, causing the host to perish from strangulation.

As we were finishing our excursion, we were grateful to be able to put the Living Machine to the test! A wonder in itself, this system is designed to convert large amounts of human waste into something beneficial for the environment. The Living Machine utilizes different tanks, plants, and bacteria to convert waste into near drinkable quality water. Roughly ninety percent of the purified water is then reprocessed back into the restrooms for usage in the toilets.

All in all, I would have to say visiting the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary is definitely worth the trip!!

URBAN & AGRICULTURAL REFLECTION - Journal Entry #3

In Front of the Duck & Tilapia Pond with a Treadle Pump

When I first arrived at ECHO, I was welcomed by my tour guide, Vic, who seemed quite pleased to explain the workings of this global demonstration farm to me. The very first thing I learned is that ECHO is not driven by having to make a profit. Rather, they are a non-profit facility focused on teaching others how to overcome hunger in challenging environments around the world. Vic appeared gratified by the fact that ECHO works on long-term resolutions toward solving hunger issues, rather than unpretentious, hurried fixes. As they say, "give a man a fish and he will eat for a day, but teach a man to fish and you will feed him for a lifetime."

Blue Tilapia Fish Pond

One of the more interesting aspects of this facility is how people residing in the highlands are educated about erosion control. A technique referred to as Sloping Agricultural Land Technology, or SALT, is a process in which nitrogen-fixing trees are planted as hedgerows, and where diversified food crops are planted and grown in the contoured spaces amongst the hedgerows. Farming in this fashion assists with effectively controlling soil erosion and aids in restoring soil fertility.

In Front of the Goat House

I found the Chapin bucket drip system relatively intriguing as well. This is an irrigation system developed for drought regions which comprises of an ordinary bucket, some tubing, tape, filter screens, and an adapter. This system works by means of gravity when a bucket of water is elevated up adequately enough to generate sufficient pressure to propel water through the tubing on the ground. The bucket is filled only once or twice per day, and affords enough moisture to the plants to sustain a garden for a family of four.

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All About the Municipal Pier

My excursion through downtown Fort Myers was an enlightening endeavor. I thoroughly enjoyed being able to devote a morning stroll in this urban area with my lovely wife. Although the skies looked like rain, the weather was kind, and any showers held off until the very end of our two hour and fifteen minute tour. Whilst scavenging for items on the provided list, we happened upon an interesting, yet unique Banyan tree. The root system was complex and amazing; as such, we had to wonder how this magnificent tree wound up in the middle of downtown!

In Front of the Historical Arcade Theater

To know that I have lived here for ten years, and had labeled downtown Fort Myers as old, unkempt, and a dangerous area to be in, you can fancy my surprise to find quite the opposite! The area overall consisted of a nice mix of smaller shops, offices, and nightclubs amongst large, stately, historic, older buildings. Honestly, we were surprised to find how remarkably clean and well-kept this particular area is, and a bit disappointed in ourselves for having judged too quickly.

As Promised, the Painted Olympian Figure I could not draw in MS Word

We were fortunate to find most of the items on the scavenger list, and my wife was thrilled to learn from a statute that Lee County was named in honor of General Robert E. Lee – one of her direct ancestors! Although we could not locate the sword Excalibur, the ad with two men skiing on the top of a snow-filled mountain, nor the bookcase with a collection of Ernest Hemingway’s work, we had a splendid time, and are planning to return again soon…only this time to enjoy lunch!

LOUV & FLANNERY REFLECTION - Journal Entry #2

NATURE IN ALL ITS GLORY
http://www.bestqualitywallpapers.com/Nature/ForestFall.jpg

I was quite intrigued by the views and ideas Richard Louv presented in his article, "Nature-Deficit Disorder and the Restorative Environment." As a father of four children, I have often expressed to my wife my trepidations that our children had very little access to "outdoor time" throughout their school years. What happened to daily recess time, and to playing sports or having gym class outside? Yet society wonders why our children are obese, and have very little concern or respect for nature and our environment. In an effort to provide our children with an appreciation of the world outside, we would spend our weekends hiking, camping, going to the beach, planting flowers and vegetables in our yard, and even teaching them about the importance of bugs and why we shouldn't squish them! We would ask them why the sky was blue, how come birds can fly, or why the water was cold at some beaches, yet warm at others, and would challenge them to find the answers.

To suggest that nature can be used as an effective therapy for ADHD, as well as radically improve mental perception and concentration undoubtedly makes a lot of sense. Conversely, we, as parents, seem to do very little to limit the amount of time our children watch television, play video games, or surf the internet. This may perhaps be out of fear - fear that our children are no longer safe outside with respect to traffic and strangers. It could merely be an absence of energy and enthusiasm - there are many single parent families nowadays, and many parents overall must work extensive hours outside of the home. It could also be a lack of knowledge - how many people actually understand the health benefits of being outside in the fresh air amongst nature?

It is remarkable to note that, while simply being outdoors is helpful, it is much more advantageous to a child to be in a setting with trees and grass. Studies similarly revealed that adults benefitted much more at work with a view of trees, bushes, and grass outside their windows. For the child with ADHD, activities in natural green settings delivered the best results in helping the child to concentrate and focus on the task at hand.

It has always been my belief that learning begins at home. We need to educate our society about the impact of Nature-Deficit Disorder, and teach our children by setting the example. Take your child for a walk, on a hike, or to the beach…it will be good Nature Therapy for both of you!!

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GREAT BARRIER REEF
http://travel.nationalgeographic.com/travel/world-heritage/great-barrier-reef/

The excerpt by Tim Flannery entitled "2050: The Great Stumpy Reef?" really opened my eyes to an issue I hadn't educated myself on...the value of our coral reef systems, and what has been occurring to jeopardize their further existence.

It is quite disheartening to learn how endangered coral reefs have become due to climate change, overfishing, runoff of nutrients, smog, and pollution – the prime culprit being climate change – and I had absolutely no idea how serious climate change has become! To learn that coral reefs provide approximately $30 billion per year in income was astonishing! I had always thought coral reefs were merely something beautiful for divers to enjoy viewing. Of course, I knew that marine life lived amongst the reefs, but was never aware of the biodiversity, or how many ocean inhabitants, relied on reefs for their very existence!

It’s a shame to learn what beauty Alfred Russel Wallace had seen in 1857 is currently nothing more than feces, plastic bags, and the remnants of slaughtered goats. To learn how a smog cloud from rain forest fires in Indonesia can contain enough iron to cause a red tide is truly fascinating!! Who would have thought a cloud even contained iron, let alone relate it somehow to a red tide?

The most discouraging of all from this excerpt was to learn that higher temperatures are the most threatening aspect to our coral reef systems. Higher temperatures cause coral bleaching which, if persistent, will cause the coral to die! Our Great Barrier Reef is most vulnerable to climate change, yet Australians are the guiltiest party when it comes to CO2 emissions. Although Australia has proclaimed that it will protect 30% of the reef by banning commercial fishing and other human activities, I don’t see how this will help at all. They need to focus on reducing their CO2 emissions, and what they can do to save much more that just 30% of the reef – especially given that the reef is a major part of their livelihood.

Although we foolishly believe there is hope our reefs can somehow survive climate change, I have come to believe that the outlook is grim, at best, if we continue down the current paths. Increasing knowledge and awareness of the ecology of our coral reef systems might be a start, along with better education about the biodiversity of our reef systems. I, for one, am ashamed to admit I had no idea as to the importance and fate of our coral reef systems. I certainly do not look forward to a day where anything in our amazing world becomes “stumpy!

SHIVA & GOODALL REFLECTION - Journal Entry #1

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THE WORLD IS FULL OF MAGICAL THINGS PATIENTLY WAITING FOR OUR EYES TO GROW SHARPER
http://www.art.com/products/p10289599-sa-i938050/biodiversity.htm

The excerpt by Vandana Shiva was quite interesting to read. I enjoyed her perspectives, particularly how every living thing has its purpose and a right to live. We, as humans, seem to think there is not much harm in putting other species to extinction, and even manipulate them for our own profit and greed. What has happened to our compassion? I am ashamed to admit that I never really stopped to consider how we essentially devalue other species. Who considered what cows endure when given growth hormones to maximize their milk – just to maximize our profits? I never gave it much thought until now.

Biodiversity is vital to sustainability and to our survival. We use it to provide ourselves with food, renewable sources of energy, and medicines. Biodiversity is critical in preserving the quality of our water and our air. It is necessary to maintain our soils and control populations of pests. Yet, as Shiva points out, humankind fails to recognize this, and chooses to push toward uniformity instead – causing the extinction of many species, destroying ourselves, and devastating our earth in the process.

Only when we fully understand the consequences of our actions will we be able to embrace biodiversity. I hope we can realize that our current ways of thinking are doing more harm than good – before it is too late – before yet another plant, animal, or species becomes endangered or extinct!

The excerpts by Jane Goodall gives me hope that we can still repair the damage we have caused – that it is never too late! The different stories that Jane shared inspired me and helped me to believe that even one person can make a difference. The sheer persistence and determination of countless men, women, and children have motivated others to fight, sometimes for years, to take part in saving a species. Jane sheds light on the very critical need to protect the habitats of all species, especially those that are endangered, and those that are on the verge of extinction. She further provides optimism that, one day, there will be a future in which biodiversity is welcomed and understood.