IU - What kind of What Labyrinth should I make? What is my site-specific message?

I wrestled with this question. There was not anything in either of Kurt Vonnegut’s books that inspired me. I do feel he wrote about what he knows and my work should be true to my own heart. A list of the obvious came to my mind- butterfly, chrysalis, beatle, seed, flower, IU letters…….

After a full day at the Eskenazie Museum on IU’s campus I was intrigued by this piece.

The museum label read-

According to traditional Bamana beliefs, an energy or force called nyama animates the universe. Objects such as this boli are made to harness that energy and use it for the benefit of the community. The thick, crusty surface is the result of offerings such as millet, other vegetal matter, beer, and chicken or goat blood, all of which are applied to attract nyama and serve as physical evidence of its presence. A boli does not represent a particular creature.

It is kind of perfect., should I make another bison? Can I make a Boli bison labyrinth?

I can see it.

Here are the steps I took

More to come tomorrow.

IU - What Does Ecological Change look like? It looks like Beanblossom Bottom Wildlife Habitat.

To change our environmental path to one of positivity, we need visuals. With that thought, I am excited to share this morning’s experience.

We discover the captivating beauty of Beanblossom Bottom Wildlife Habitat - a living testament to the power of ecological change. Once a family farm for over a century, this remarkable property has been transformed into a thriving wetland sanctuary.

Formerly owned by the Johnson family, since 1898 Robert Anthony Johnson, an esteemed ornithologist and IU professor, dedicated his life to studying bird behavior and publishing research on diverse species worldwide. In 1995, the Johnson family generously donated their beloved farm to the Sycamore Land Trust, marking the beginning of an incredible transformation. Over the years, this once-dry farmland has evolved into a spectacular wetland ecosystem, showcasing various stages of growth and renewal.

If you are interested in regeneration Beanblossom Bottom wildlife is a must. As you explore the grounds, you'll encounter many ecosystems - from old fields returning to young forest, dense forests and lush wetlands to rejuvenating fields and downed tree-filled areas sculpted by tornadoes. These diverse habitats offer a haven for many tree and shrub species, providing ideal nesting grounds for a diversity of creatures. My husband Curtis always looking up identified nine birds : Red-bellied Woodpecker, Pileated Woodpecker, Northern Flicker, Ruby-throated Hummingbird, Blue Jay, Gray Catbird, Green Heron, Tufted Titmouse, American Crow.

I am always looking at the soil, plants and for things living in relationship with the them.

Me in my mosquito protection wardrobe.

Prepare to be immersed in a symphony of nature's harmonious spectacle, where beauty and tranquility intertwine. Embark on a journey through the captivating landscapes of Beanblossom Bottom Wildlife Habitat and witness firsthand the extraordinary power of change.

Below are some images from the morning.

Newly forested area with little lower story plant life and dry ground.

The most important ecological change is due to one species, Nature's Water Engineers the super camera shy Beaver. By building dams, beavers regulate water flow, reducing erosion and preventing flooding. I am hoping my camera snagged an image of one. My cell phone failed.

These industrious creatures also create vital wetland habitats and help replenish aquifers, ensuring the health of our ecosystems.

Their strategic use of wood in the water provides nourishment and shelter for insects, fish and other creatures creating a thriving ecosystem. It was thrilling to see at least two of these eco engineers reminding me of the rol-engineers reminding me of the role beavers play in preserving our natural world.

Northern leopard frog

New forests are easy to identify by the lack age diversity in it's tree trunk population. An old forest will have tree trunks of all sizes multiple species and stages of life.

Sycamore trees are tolerant of pollution and are superstars at turning carbon into oxygen. Why do they shed their bark and why don’t all trees shed? - a topic for another day. If anyone knows please share.

IU - How does Earth transform energy from leaves to a soil?

It is Labor Day weekend, so I have time to relax and experience the IU campus landscape.

Natural landscapes on college campuses are rare finds. Dunn’s Woods is a veritable gem of Indiana University’s “Woodland Campus.” The iconic Sample Gates are a portrayal to the cycle of life and rebirth in the urban woods/ college campus.

This rare and sacred space unveils the harmonious dance between sun-kissed leaves, rustling branches, and fertile soil. The emerald foliage, gently illuminated by the celestial glow, gracefully surrenders from sky to earth, transforming into nourishing sustenance for woodland creatures and retaining rains, dew and moisture.

Sun’s energy is transferred to Earth in the shape of sun crisp leaves, the main ingredient of Earth’s soil sponge and the planet’s digestive system.