Hot Day at the Gathering Place

Our morning and early afternoon posting was to be part of the Oklahoma Master Naturalists (OMN) at the Gathering Place. The Bloom Flower Festival was today and the park’s 16 acres of wildflowers were looking their best. OMN was invited to join the group of education partners: Tulsa Botanic Gardens, Global Gardens, Tribal Pollinators and All About Bees. The Floral Installation Artists included small businesses and landscape firms. Vendors sold unique floral creations and arrangements. Snack wagons were here and there, but the Lodge was air-conditioned and sold ice cream and cupcakes.

The good thing: families, kids and all kinds of interest. The challenge: sun and heat. It was hot out there manning the wildlife table of pelts, skulls, turtle carapaces, rocks, shells and seeds. It probably did those artifacts some good being baked in the sun. The backdrop of Monarda (Bee Balm), Black-Eyed Susans, Indian Blanket (Gaillardia) and even the mini-stand of 3 red poppies blooming out-of-season was beautifully dramatic. Our table faced one of the water features with beach that had been closed on the other side. Some areas of the Gathering Place were still barricaded due to damage from excessive water. The Arkansas River was still high next to Riverside Drive, the dirty brown water rolling downstream at a fast pace.

We watched waterfowl land gracefully on the water and swim to secluded areas. One Great Blue Heron flew overhead. A small Blue Heron or Green Heron (too far to tell), coasted to a stop at the water’s edge and vanished into the plants. The Canadian Geese arrived with 2 goslings, much to the chagrin of the park staff. They have diligently discouraged Canadian Geese from setting up shop at the Gathering Place. ‘Goose’ the watch dog patrols the waters, plunging after errant Canadian Geese and forcing them to fly away. A panting Goose came by to visit us with his handler. The man looked at the geese paddling around and shook his head. When there were kids (goslings) present, the family could not be disturbed. Goose found a little shade and had a drink of water. It was a hot day for man or beast.

Thanks to Rita and Larry for coming out to the Gathering Place and doing their part for OMN on such a hot and humid day.