Nature Journal #3: Fort Worth Nature Center and Refuge

 Last Tuesday, instead of meeting in the classroom, we ventured out into nature by convening in the Fort Worth Nature Center and Refuge. As I arrived at the main gated entrance for visitors, I was told how to drive to our meeting point and given a map. I eventually found a small, wooden building after unconfidently driving along the gravel path.  Dr. Wood led us inside where I found a glass cabinet with shelves teeming with items collected from the land. These included animal fur, turtle shells, bones, and even a mysterious object in a liquid-filled jar. 

After our arrival, we were given some information about what we would be doing, the supplies we would use, and how to safely complete our volunteer work. When I heard we would be using a wood chipper, I was shocked and nervous to say the least. I am not very fond of sharp objects, but with some reassurance and guidance from Nick and Hayley, I was put at ease. We were then escorted to our work location, at least ten of us squeezing on the back of a pickup truck.

I was not aware of privet or the consequences that it can have on an environment's organisms. When we arrived at the location off the side of the road, I was able to visualize the repercussions that privet has on the wildlife. When untouched, privet continues to overgrow, taking over the ecosystem and destroying the perfect equilibrium set in place by naturally controlled wildlife. With the privet overgrown, animals such as deer cannot see where they are going, becoming trapped or lost.

After donning gloves, a construction vest, and safety goggles, I entered the rough terrain covered in branches and twigs. I was thankful to wear some heavy duty boots and long sleeves, as I frequently stepped on top of sharp branches and brushed against some sharp thorns. Throughout the heat, I sorted through the forest floor in order to find the largest branches to make the biggest difference. This proved to be difficult, as some branches were intertwined, others filled with fire ants or huge fungi. After observing a classmate get bitten by fire ants, I carefully inspected each privet before choosing it. I methodically threw each branch in the wood chipper while I watched it turn into dust. Even though it felt as though I was making little progress, I was filled with awe as I saw the impact our short time of work made on this environment. This made me feel accomplished and motivated me, opening my eyes to the impact even a small group can make for the environment. I look forward to future endeavors at the refuge and the influence we will continue to have.