The Scenic Route
Wednesday, May 3rd, 2023. I take this path regularly on my way to work. Enjoy the sights!
Ash Tree
This ash tree has been infected and killed by the emerald ash borer. The squiggly s-shaped pattern is indicative of the larvae's presence. I will be working as a forestry intern at the City of River Falls this summer and I will be treating ash trees to protect them from this pest.
Bee Hotel
The Bee Hotel project was funded and created by UWRF Bee Club. The purpose of the structure is to provide a habitat for solitary bees and other pollinators. I am conducting an URSCA project this year to expand the garden around the Bee Hotel, and to provide a variety of plants for different pollinator species.
White Pine Trees
This is one of my favorite spots along the Burr Oak Trail. It's the perfect spot for hammocking and many songbirds flit amongst the branches. The smell of warm pine needles in the summer reminds me of the north woods forest.
Bloodroot
Bloodroot is native to North America and they typically grow along the forest floor or near river banks. Their white blooms appear in early spring and can be seen in the woods all along the Burr Oak Trail. The root of this plant has a red-orange colored sap used for making red dyes, hence the name "bloodroot".
Kinni & Woodland Overlook
This bench is a great spot to observe local wildlife along the Kinnickinnic River. Many birds and small critters can be seen here, and if you're lucky, some deer may wander by.
Quick Detour
If you take the small trail into the woods, you will catch a glimpse of the wetland life. From spring to fall, many creatures call this place home, including ducks, geese, frogs, songbirds, squirrels, and even snakes!
Mole Holes
The intramural fields on campus are known for their lush green lawns and exceptional field space. However, moles also find this field attractive and they burrow holes under the surface. These mounds of dirt can be seen all over the fields where the moles popped in and out of the ground.
Stinging Nettle
Stinging nettles are typically found in woods and prairies. They can be identified by their toothed leaves with palmate venation and the hairy appearance of their stem. When touched by bare skin, the hairs of stinging nettle can cause irritation and itchiness. However, if thoroughly boiled, this plant is edible and can be used in soups and other dishes.
The Kinnickinnic River
The Kinni runs along the south edge of campus and can be easily seen by the bridges that cross over it. This bridge is a perfect place to view the spawning grounds of brown trout and common brook trout. There are also many birds and squirrels that have made their homes along this stretch of the river.