3/8/08 Coastal Plains Marsh
msue.msu.edu/mnfi to gather additional details on the marsh which will be used for my artist statement, info. sheet and other promotional materials.
I find it very intriguing that the Crooked Lake Marsh is considered a Costal Plains Marsh - a quite rare and unique wetland community. It is called that because of its characteristics of presenting wet in the spring, drying up in the summer and becoming wet again in the fall. According to the Joe Lurg these swings are classic and typical of ths type of habitat. The plants that live there have, over time, adapted to a lot of change in the water table and include a mix of annuals and perennials. The site lists typicaly plants, animals and insects found in this type of habitat.
Itintrugues me that each time I walk to the marsh, it is like I am in a different wetland. Even thought I cannot see the water and can walk clear across the marsh and sit in the grasses, I can feel the wet ground beneath me like a spongy bog. Spirit and I walk there together, often bring a sandwich in my pocket. I sit back and take in the glory of the warm sun and blue sky and Spirit runs, smells and bounds through the tall grasses - just for the pure joy of it. This is, in fact, how I came upon its nickname, "Tall Grass Marsh."
This is a wonderland of beauty, space and quiet. This place of solitude replenishes me.
