October On the Marsh
October on the marsh is all about change, like a tapestry with new colors
interwoven every day, as the greens give way to vibrant hues of yellow, red and orange,
the wildlife changes as well, some making their way south for warmer temperatures and
some getting ready for hibernation to take time off until spring awakens them once
more. It is a beautiful time of year to get out and appreciate all that nature does for us.
Of all changes that occur, it is the trees that make the loudest statement in their final
time of the growing season with a burst of color and falling leaves.
The fallen leaves are their parting gift to those that live below. Many people rake
the leaves thinking that they must rid their yards of the fall debris but there may be a
better way to make use of these colorful leaves. In summer those very same trees
provide shade, a wind break in high winds, plentiful nesting sites for birds and a home to
various other creature. Trees are an important part of the landscape and the ecosystem,
including the organisms that we don’t see and are often not even aware of.
A very dense complete cover of leaves may inhibit the growth of your lawn for
next season however scattered leaves can be left and will eventually decompose and
release vital nutrients to the soil below. They add organic material to the soil and
release nitrogen and phosphorus along with other minerals to your lawn, free fertilizer.
Leaves provide insulation against erosion in pouring rain and insulation for perennial
plants. If you must rake, consider a pile of leaves on your property to use for mulching
flower beds or gardens. Make a compost pile.
Fallen leaves are the home to many insects that overwinter in various stages.
They may be cover for nesting native bees. Butterflies and moths often overwinter as a
chrysalis hidden in the leaves, lightening bugs use them to overwinter and they are
home to many invertebrates. Fallen leaves are a gift to migrating birds who scratch
through them to find insects and larvae to eat in spring. Hopefully, as you learn more
about this valuable resource you will find ways to utilize these parting gifts from the
trees.
If you feel creative and like to decorate this fall, our adult craft scarecrow making
day has been changed to Saturday October 10, from 1-3PM. Preregistration is required
and a $10 donation is needed to help pay for materials. Preregister to reserve your spot
or with questions by emailing lparro68@gmail.com
Learn about the Native Americans that inhabited the area of Collins Marsh before
the early settlers came to the area. On October 24 th at 1 PM, join us for a free
presentation by Chris Neumeyer. Learn about the people and what areas they utilized
as their home. This is another free talk in our ongoing educational series. So often we
take for granted the opportunities and wonderful natural locations near our own back
yard. With gas prices rising and making travel expensive, we are lucky to have public
natural areas and activities to enjoy for the entire family close to home. Come explore
the areas of Collins Marsh and appreciate the changing colors of October.
