November 19

Thursday, since it was firearms hunting season, Remi and I went up to Mt. Pleasant to hike the safe confines of Millpond Park where deer, dogs and humans can roam free without fear of being shot. The early morning weather was partly sunny with a temperature of 46 degrees and a stiff wind out of the southwest. We left the car and followed a paved trail east where the leaf litter indicated the presence of White Oak trees nearby. As the trail approached the bank of the Chippewa River, I caught a glimpse of the rising sun shining through the leafless Box Elder trees on the far shore. Also, on the ground, I noticed green patches of Garlic Mustard, the first of many types of invasive plants I found in the park. I continued east, got off the path and descended a gentle slope down to the river’s edge where I paused to look and listen to one of my favorite water courses as it turned north and flowed rapidly down grade. Meanwhile, on the sand near shore, I found fresh deer tracks. Proceeding south, I crossed over the river on a bridge and turned west where I spotted the fluffy white seeds of the invasive vine, Old Man’s Beard as it clung to the bushes next to the trail. As the path followed the riverbank south, I spotted two invasive shrubs, Common Buckthorn with its blue berries and Japanese Barberry with its red berries. Buckthorn berries are edible to birds. However, if consumed by humans they cause severe cramps and diarrhea. Barberry berries are edible to both birds and humans. A little further, I stopped to observe a 4-inch diameter aspen tree that was being cut down by a beaver. These amazing mammals can fell a tree like this in 5 minutes or less. After turning around to retrace my steps, I noticed some Wild Geranium foliage next to the path that was turning colors. Finally, we made it back to the car and headed home.

Speak to me

Waters of worth

Sustainer of life

Artery of earth

Raparian wonder

Born in a lake

Carving the land

Meandering snake

Soothing sounds

Resource giver

Rapids on rocks

Chippewa River

D. DeGraaf