Land Trust Walk

I've been looking forward to this morning's walk at the Northumberland Land Trust's Lone Pine Marsh Braham Reserve all week. As we were being welcomed by the steward of this trust, hundreds of Canada Geese came swooping in from the south. I love this picture. It looks like they are trying to be falling leaves. We weren't fooled though. We could hear them.

This trust property was named after a lone pine. That tree died and this summer, a new lone pine was planted and is being faithfully watered by the assistant steward.

Isn't it cute?

The trust has an abundance of well-informed leaders. Today, two of them toured us around, letting us know about the flora and fauna that make their home there. Doug also told us about a new property that the Land Trust and Ducks Unlimited will be buying. A bog near Brighton. Be still my heart.

For only 138 acres, this parcel of land has quite a few distinct environments. I love this image. It looks like a Bev Doolittle painting.

This trust property is open for anyone to explore without getting permission. There are some paths....

... and in some areas, you make your way as you wish. Sapsucker damage was interesting to see.

... but I think the most interesting find was this pathway, brushed almost clean to the dirt. By whom you ask? Beavers. Beavers at night dragging logs to the marsh.

There was fascination on the ground and in the air.

On May 14 of this year, at the annual Birding Marathon, 99 species of birds were identified here. I love the idea of land trusts. It's like the birds and animals can trust the place to be there for them forever. 99 types of birds trusted the trust that spring day.

If I were a bird, I'd trust this reserve. There are so many different habitats that seem safe.

A beautiful marsh....

.... lovely grasslands.....

... with lots of seeds to eat.

I think this is my favourite image from today's walk. It looks to me like the beginning of a weaving project. The weft is in place. All of the grasses so evenly spaced.

To end our walk, better views were had from the viewing platform.

Lunch was had under the new pavillion roof and new acquaintances were made.

I'll end with a little Hemingway:

“The best way to find out if you can trust somebody is to trust them.”