Happy Cavity Nesting Families – Western Bluebird

Bird of Good Cheer and a Hopeful Spring Throughout history, and within many cultures, bluebirds symbolize happiness, protection, and hope. People may have first taken notice of the birds because of their unusual coloring, or for their behavior; swooping through meadows and open spaces, cheerful song, or large family units raising young each spring. When the bluebirds start building nests … Read More

Crayfish – Aquatic Groundskeepers

Crayfish are freshwater crustaceans related to shrimp, lobster, and crabs. They’re all decapods—having ten legs. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the native range for the Signal crayfish (Pacifastacus leniusculus) is the Columbia River’s lower estuary. The range goes northwest and through tributaries that reach into British Columbia, Washington, Idaho, and Oregon. Historical records say crayfish were first introduced to … Read More

Ghost Pine – Produces Nuts in Harsh Growing Conditions

Pinus Sabiniana is native to California and Oregon and has a variety of names. Habitat Its habitat forms a ring around California’s ‘bathtub’ (central valley). It grows in poor soils, is adapted to hot, dry summers and usually keeps company with Blue and Live Oaks. Common Names & Naming History Common names include; Ghost Pine Gray Pine California Foothill Pine … Read More

Art for a Cause – Deer Creek Bridges & Native Plants

Art Creation for Events Events where I plan to show art provides motivation to create new pieces. ‘Deer Creek Bridges’ was created for the 2018 Nevada County Fair photography competition. The ‘Pine Street Historic Bridge’ piece was made for display and sale during the 2018 Fall Colors Open Studio Tour. Video Productions doing Double Duty This video was created for … Read More

Invasive Species Choke Natives & California’s Floristic Province

The California Floristic Province is considered a world biodiversity hotspot. It contains a large number of ecosystems that include alpine forest, mixed evergreen forest, riparian forest, sagebrush steppe, coastal sage scrub, redwood forests and more. Currently, only 25% of the original vegetation remains unharmed. Highly populated and a producer of agriculture products for 50% of the country, California is also considered ‘one of … Read More