Canoe Trip (Journal)


Billy Petersen
Professor Williams
Nature Journal
12/4/19
Canoe Trip
             
It’s a gloomy fall day in Fort Worth, Texas. The leaves are changing, the wind is blowing, and wildlife is active in the beautiful Fort Worth Nature Center. As I drive down the winding roads of the Nature Center, I see Buffalo grazing through the field and deer hiding in the forest. A small fawn is sheltered behind a doe as he tries to keep up with the moving group of deer. When I get out of my car, I am immediately greeted by the cold breeze as it presses against my face.
Our class begins to load our canoes into the water and head upstream on the Trinity River. As we move through the river, we spook a large flock of “coots” as they scattered across the river. They don’t fly high into the trees, they stay inches above the water flapping their wings as if they are running across the river. Small fish jump along the river bank feeding off insects resting on top of the water. Our class was determined to pick up any trash we see floating in the water. It was amazing sharing the experience of cleaning up the river with my classmates. Everyone was connected and focused on helping our environment. Being out in nature has an amazing way of connected individuals together. It is evident why Professor William’s wants our class to meet at the nature center, being away from the classroom allows individuals to connect and share memorable experiences.


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