A Walk In The Woods

The image above was taken today at the Schmeekle Reserve in Stevens Point, WI. This 275 acre natural area was breathtaking with the fall color and beautiful weather. This reserve is part of the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point and is surrounded by other development. It is truly an "island of beauty" and I haven't enjoyed it for over 12 years when I would walk thru as a student. I gave a presentation (spring blooming bulbs) last night to the Portage County Master Gardeners and my wife and younger daughter came up with me. Today we went on a nice hike thru this area and my daughter was happy to observe a garter snake, turtle and four deer. The setting was wonderful and we enjoyed the day. I thought the statement seen below on a sign in the reserve was quite poignant and continues to become even more so with each passing year...Gaylord Nelson, the primary founder of Earth Day, did so much for the environment and if you don't know who he is, look him up (he passed away in 2005) and see what one person can accomplish in a lifetime. Enjoy the rest of the pictures of Schmeekle at its "Autumn Peak"! The bottom picture shows the confetti-like blooms of our native witchhazel (Hamamelis virginiana) in full bloom with accompanying golden fall color.