Existing comment:
On the Edge:
Seeming to grow right out of the sandstone rock, Ponderosa Pines and Douglas Firs cling precariously to the ledges of the larger rock formations. These trees get their start in cracks within the rocks and hang on to life by wedging their roots ever deeper into the sandstone. Can you guess how the seeds got here?
Re-greening the Garden: "When it rains, it pours." This saying is certainly true in Colorado. Brief downpours are literally "gully washers" that carry away any soil not held in place by plant roots. This erosion is hastened when the groundcover is damaged by hikes, horses or bicycles.
The dramatic valley where you now stand was trampled and barren early in the 20th century due to heavy use by sightseers and special events. Juniper trees now dotting the valley were all planted by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the 1930s to begin revegetation. Native grasses have also been seeded, and the concrete path was constructed to prevent erosion from foot traffic.
You can do your part to help the fragile Garden remain green by staying on the main pathways, allowing the native plants to regrow in disturbed areas. |