Mapping the Sites I've Visited

I created a simple map of the sites within the James River Park System that I have visited, those I have yet to explore, and areas where I have assisted with invasive plants. I will likely update this map as I continue to visit more sites and do more volunteer work to help with different invasives. As far as using the google mymaps app, the process was fairly simple, even as someone entirely new to any mapping or GIS software. This map could be helpful for those with more mapping experience to pinpoint locations of invasive plants.

My Experience With Japanese Hops

On June 21st, 2021, I volunteered with the James River Association to help combat Japanese Hops (Humulus japonicus). There were five of us and it only took about an hour and a half and some afternoon sweat to get rid of the invasive plant in a small area on Chapel Island. Unfortunately, these vines can grow so fast that they will likely cover the whole area again within a month. The volunteer team leader noted that a team comes out to Chapel Island at least once a month to try and keep the invasive plant from expanding. One can easily recognize the Japanese Hops in the area by their fuzzy/prickly vines that wrap around and suppress native plants. Additionally, they are likely to be found near the water within the various park sites.

An Introduction to Ecology and the James River

 

James River Park: Initial Description

     The James River Park area is located only a couple miles from where I currently live. Although I lived in Richmond from 2017-2019, I never visited the James River Park or the North Bank Trail until I started searching for a study area for this summer semester (2021). The scope includes various trails and wetlands. Because the park system has an Invasive Plant Task Force, there is an opportunity to learn about the invasive plant species in the area. Additionally, the site is also used heavily for recreational activities, providing a chance to analyze any conflict between locals and the park system’s biodiversity.

    Because the North Bank Trail is over 2 miles long, it may have much biodiversity to study. During a couple of visits to the trail, I saw various bird species and one turtle species that I have not yet identified (but I do have a picture). The scope seems likely to have many different tree species, which will help with assignments focused on dendrology later in the semester. Fortunately, the James River Park System has opportunities for science-focused tours, volunteer work, and published information on the invasive plants of the area. These resources will bring plenty of chances to gain material for studying the area and in-depth knowledge of the park.

More information on the James River Park can be found here.

Biodiversity & Why It Is Important

    Biodiversity is the amalgamation of various plant life and wildlife, including insects, organic matter, and organisms. Biodiversity can span locally, regionally, or globally. Biodiversity can also be defined as “all of the different kinds of life you’ll find in one area” (WWF), including animals, plants, fungi, and microorganisms, all of which work together to support ecosystems and life on Earth. 

Protecting biodiversity is the most important thing we can do not only for our planet but also for ourselves. Amid our day-to-day functions, it can be easy for us all to forget about the benefits we gain from protecting non-human life. Many of us tend to view biodiversity protection as always being at odds with economic prosperity. Perhaps, though, this does not have to be the case. While economic activities or resource extraction must occur in some cases, healthy biodiversity is the foundation for our well-being.

For instance, think about how small crustaceans such as the Madison Cave isopod can safeguard a local population’s water supply. Not only is the effort to protect this tiny isopod a matter of conservation, but it is also one of human health and thus economics. That is just one local-level example. On a regional scale, different birds can bring various benefits, notably through seed dispersal. When we get to the global scale, protecting biodiversity can also mean shielding native plant or animal species from invasive life from other countries. I was amazed when I started to learn how easy it is for invasive species to spread through accidental human errors. Invasive species can accidentally be carried across waters by boat, find their way into shipping crates, and even be spread by contaminating our clothing.

Indeed, protecting biodiversity with our most significant efforts will undoubtedly require us to make some changes to our economies and consumption habits. Despite any changes that may come, we do not have to see such transformations as unfavorable. Instead, we should view any necessary adjustments for biodiversity protection as opportunities for economic innovation, safeguarding human health, and creating a more politically stable world.