Art. Life. Place.

The crisp autumn air nipped at our noses as we pulled on our waterproof boots. My family and I were about to embark on a cranberry-picking adventure amidst the coastal dunes of Cape Cod. The cranberries grow in the low-lying coastal swales, hidden amongst the small seasonal ponds and dune plants. Here they thrive in the sandy, acidic soil. As we navigated the terrain, our eyes scan the horizon for the telltale signs of cranberry vines - a creeping plant adorned with clusters of bright red berries. Kneeling down, we carefully picked through the vines, filling our bags with the sweet, tart fruits. The rhythmic motion of picking was both soothing and satisfying - a wonderful way to connect with nature and appreciate the beauty of the Cape.

River herring play a vital role in Cape Cod's ecosystem. Each spring, they migrate from the ocean to freshwater ponds to spawn. Their presence provides a food source for larger predators like striped bass and ospreys.

However, their journey back to the ocean in autumn is fraught with dangers. As water temperatures drop, herring congregate near pond outlets, waiting for the right conditions to depart. The journey is challenging, with obstacles like shallow waters, impassable barriers, and lurking predators.

Despite their resilience, river herring populations face threats from habitat loss and overfishing. Conservation efforts are crucial to protect these valuable species and ensure their continued migration for future generations. The annual exodus of river herring is a testament to the delicate balance of nature and the importance of preserving our ecosystems.

Ecology is an interesting thing - it brings into focus the fascinating connections within the natural world. On Cape Cod, beech trees play a vital role in maintaining healthy trout habitats. Their dense canopies provide shade, regulate water temperatures, and prevent excessive aquatic vegetation growth. However, a new threat looms - beech leaf disease. Caused by a non-native nematode, this disease is rapidly spreading and could have devastating consequences for both beech trees and the trout that depend on them. It's a reminder of the interconnectedness of nature and the importance of protecting our ecosystems.

On a September morning, I joined fisheries biologist Steve Hurley of the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife near Waquoit Bay on Cape Cod. I had been invited to participate in one of the state's biannual electrofishing surveys on the Childs River. The Childs River once teemed with brook trout, but by the early 2000s they were nearly gone. After almost twenty years of conservation efforts, including a large-scale restoration project to remove a dam and abandoned cranberry bogs, the river is coming back to life. The survey would provide a sense of just how well it’s doing. While there were promising signs of recovery, challenges still remain. The Childs River restoration project demonstrates the power of conservation and the importance of protecting our natural resources. Ongoing monitoring and adaptive management are crucial for ensuring the long-term health of the river and its fish population.