Kudos to Madison

A Bit of Winter

A Bit of Winter © 2007

To be interested in the changing seasons is a happier state of mind than to be hopelessly in love with spring. ~ George Santayana

On the Prairie Path in Owen Conservation Park, Madison, Wisconsin, as the last autumn leaves hold fast to the tree limbs amidst the first of winter’s snow flurries.

In my October 31st post I noted large construction machinery leveling land in the southwest corner of this conservation park. I left a message with my alderman complaining about infringement in our conservation parks, but did not follow-up as I should have. I now discover that the City of Madison has not succumbed to the pressures of outside development, but is instead improving the site. I do acknowledge that Madison is one of the most environmentally-conscious and progressive larger cities (200,000 city population, 500,000 metro) I have ever lived in, so I should have given it the benefit of doubt until I checked the facts.

I recently found out that the city is constructing three storm-water/wildlife ponds in the park to replace an eroded channel to Lake Mendota. This water way currently carries tons of sediment to our largest downtown lake (9842 acres) every year. Soon, Owen Park will have three new wildlife ponds to attract the aviation population. Sorry, Madison. I jumped to a wrong conclusion when I should have checked my facts first. Kudos to Madison, instead. I will follow up as the project moves forward.

About Bo Mackison

I'm a photographer, book-artist, traveler, naturalist, and creator of the Contemplative Creatives Journey, An Online Workshop and Community and Desert Wisdom Cards and Workshops. Though often not well known, I find the desert a welcoming place - a healing space. Its mysteries and gifts transformed me several years ago. Since that first encounter, I return again and again to fill my well in what most people think of as a desolate region. I'd love to share my desert discoveries and wisdom with you. Please subscribe to receive my five part mini email course The Gifts of the Desert. It's my gift to you.

Comments

  1. I’m sure Madison forgives you. 😉

  2. Wow, how interesting for sure and glad they are putting some ponds in! We think that way because normally they are trying to do something that isn’t the best interest in our wildlife!

  3. Amuirin: Madison is a forgiving spot, yes!
    Mon@rch: It is a surprise when the good guys (us and the wildlife) when over the baddies!

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