Over the past few months, there have been signs of increasing vegetation and biological activity in this riparian area that are also important to document. As the dry summer months gave way to increasing rain showers and cooler weather, vegetation increased all over the land. Germination has exploded over the majority of the land, especially on the floor of the sugar hackberry forest. A spider gracefully builds its web between two retama trees performing a captivating show of strength and agility. Monarch butterflies sweeping through Hornsby on their migration, serve as a symbol of hope and rebirth.
Rattlesnakes coil up and lie motionless as winter slowly sets in.
An elusive beaver makes its home on the river as thousands of colorful damselflies flutter by. Photography is a useful tool to document all emergences in this complex and beautiful web of life and to gain a deeper understanding of the land. To waste or not to waste The Biosolids Treatment Facility of Hornsby Bend introduces fascinating possibilities to explore in the field of riparian restoration. We are looking at biosolids application as a possible way to enhance restoration efforts on the new property. The idea fits into a holistic approach where waste is considered a beneficial part of the natural cycles of life.