The adage “a picture is worth a thousand words” rings true for Steep Rock Association. Photography is an incredible tool for performing scientific research, telling the story of our conservation impact, and highlighting the importance of open space. This year, we aim to increase photographic...
In recognition of a rapidly shifting climate and increasingly pronounced weather events, Steep Rock Association (SRA) has proactively managed our preserves to enhance their climate resilience – the ability to resist and recover from climate-related disruptions. The ecology of rivers and streams are particularly vulnerable, not...
by: Rory Larson, Conservation Science Manager A firmly held tenet of our management approach is that the public's enjoyment of the preserves derives directly from their natural character and diversity of flora and fauna. Lucky for you, there is no better time than now to experience...
by Rory Larson The Gift of Baby Birds Every year, Steep Rock Association (SRA) caringly cleans and prepares nest boxes to provide habitat for birds, and every year, SRA staff and citizen scientists then monitor the reproductive success of their tenants. Scientific studies shows that our hard work...
A Steep Rock Service by Rory Larson Word on the river is there are rent-free, cozy cottages up for grabs in Washington. No AC, plumbing is rudimentary, and the neighbors can be rather intrusive, but the location cannot be beat and there are all the insects you...
Tropical Storm Isaias has had a significant impact in all Steep Rock Preserves. We lost count of the number of trees broken or felled on our trails in Hidden Valley, Macricostas, and Steep Rock Preserves. But within 12 hours of the storm’s abatement, staff, trail...
Much more stirs in Steep Rock Association (SRA) preserves nowadays, and no, I am not referring to the recent influx of hikers seeking respite from COVID-19 constraints. Breeding season is underway for many of the wild inhabitants that call SRA preserves home. It is an especially...
By: Mike Giapponi Until recently, the northern and western edges of the Macricostas Hay Field were choked by heavy infestations of invasive plants. Burning Bush, Japanese Barberry, and Oriental Bittersweet were just a few of the many noxious plant species that...
It’s that time of year again when thrushes and warblers serenade forest dwellers, buds burst, and a rejuvenated environment even teases of summer with an occasional tree frog sounding off. For Steep Rock Association, these cues trigger a certain stewardship action being the monitoring of...
What's in this Issue: Invasive plants at Steep Rock; Hemlock research; In the Arena, behind the scenes at Steep Rock Association; From Judea Garden; Notes from the field, conservation easement; Children's Nature book review; Volunteer Spotlight, Missy Stevens and Natalie Dyer; and a Kestrel Family. Read this issue:...