Chehalem Ridge Trip - Native Plants, Mycorrhizal Networks, Kalapuyan Lifeways and More
/The Sea Lions ventured out for a beautiful field study under cover of cloud and mist today. Before leaving for Chehalem Ridge, we talked again about the life of the Atfalati-Kalapuyans, and explored more deeply the concept of Seasonal Rounds. We considered the lives of the tribes when they were able to move freely across the region, holding a deep and meaningful connection to the land, and the plants and animals that sustained them.
When we arrived at the park, we were greeted by Jason and Vanessa (our Metro guides) who led us on a fantastic tour. We stopped often along the way to learn about native plants with medicinal properties and marveled at the abundance of mushrooms and the magic of the mycorrhizal network. Twice on our journey we paused in silent reflection, breathing in the sounds, sights and smells around us and relishing the opportunity to spend a day in the forest together.
And as if that wasn’t enough, we spent time together in the classroom this week - learning some pretty amazing math, becoming expert writing editors for one another and starting work on our first research papers!
