Tree Walk

For lab, our environmental science class took a tree walk around campus to see the different species of fauna located around Mercer University. I would like to highlight a few of the plants and trees that we observed.
First is the weeping willow. It's scientific name is Salix babylonica, which was classified by Carolus Linnaeus. It's branches droop which is why it is called the "weeping" willow. Often found in North America and Europe.

Larches are conifers with the scientific name Larix Pinaceae. Growing from 20 to 45 m tall, they are native to much of the cooler temperate northern hemisphere, and on mountains further south.

 The Mexican Petunia is a trumpet shaped flower with beautiful coloring. They thrive in warmer climates and can stand up to three feet. 

Mystery of the Megaflood

The "Mystery of the Megaflood," a documentary watched in lab, is an interesting phenomenon that has stumped scientists for many years. This takes place over the Scablands, which have changed gradually over time to form many different and unique formations. The question scientists want to know is how did these phenomenons occur? For many years scientists believed the Scablands were formed by erosion. Another theory that has caught rise is the theory of a giant powerful flood that occurred about 15,000 years ago. Formations like the Devil's Postpile (Picture 1) and Palouse River Canyon (Picture 2) were formed through the power of the megaflood and the chemical reactions that occurred because of it.

For more information about "The Mystery of the Megaflood" visit the website:
http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/megaflood/

Ocmulgee Heritage Trail

The Ocmulgee Heritage Trail is a valuable resource to be located in Macon, Ga. Comprised of a long system of trails, this roadway is great for families and bikers, hikers and joggers to enjoy Macon's culture and nature. Located in the picture below is the transect line that shows the elevation at this point in the Ocmulgee River where we completed our river lab.

 Below is a link for more information about the Ocmulgee Heritage Trail:
http://www.newtownmacon.com/projects/ocmulgee-heritage-trail/

Topographic Map of Mt St. Helens

Here is my topographic map of Mt St Helens, located 50 miles northeast of Portland, Oregon. The map shows elevations of 4,400 feet to 5,000 feet.