August 2013.
That means hovering dragonflies (our most effective mosquito killers), low water levels, pools full of tiny fish, lots of green slime, and continuing masses of fertilizer-induced bubbles. As yard watering becomes more necessary, it’s a good time to check your system to make sure your water is going on your grass and not down the gutter into the creek – where its chemicals may contribute to growth in the creek bed. (For an example of such growth, check the south side of the Alta Vista bridge).
Speaking of plant growth in the creek area, your committee chairs, along with Kiki Paschall, VP Events and Jan Mateja, Bed Maintenance Leader, joined Dallas City Arborist Karen Woodard on a walk to evaluate the tree and shrub situation along the creek. Her message: the trees and bushes growing along the creek are essential to maintaining the banks and protecting the creek channel! Karen noted that some species, such as the black willow, that provides both erosion control (with its tenacious root system) and wildlife habitat (woodpeckers are often seen in high branches of these trees) are becoming increasingly rare in the city. These trees are difficult to grow in the nursery trade, so natural preservation is important.
Karen also pointed out that the creek and its surrounding green space are city property, and the city will work with us to maintain the integrity of the creek and its surroundings. If we perceive a problem with water flow or vegetation in the creek, a call to 311 will bring a city representative promptly to the scene to assess the situation. Your creek committee chairs can also assist you with these issues.
So, enjoy our unique neighborhood resource as you keep cool this summer – and thank the dragonflies!
Vince Punaro & Rebecca Bergstresser