Writing this final inquiry reflection comes with (mostly) a feeling of relief, as I feel I have been losing steam trying to keep pace with the quantity of posts required for this course. For me, I feel as though having this be more of a 5-part series of longer-form blog posts would have worked better regarding my inquiry topic: connection to place. However, I did enjoy finalizing the inquiry by thinking back on my life and the three places I have called home: Penticton, Busan, and Victoria.
Attribution to Ted-Ed, accessed April 1, 2024 Lesson by Amy Adkins, animation by Stretch Films, Inc.
When thinking about place and connection to it, I feel as though it is also important to consider personal identity. The query, “Who am I?”, represents not just who I am at this moment but in all of the moments in the past and the future. For me, recognizing that all parts of me are interconnected with the parts of where I am, through the feeling of using all five basic human senses, is important to recognize my place on these lands.
If you’ve spent any time hiking around Vancouver Island, you’ve likely seen a variety of mosses growing on rock faces, plants, and trees. Significant areas of Vancouver Island are temperate rainforests with abundant rainfall, mild temperatures, and high humidity. These environmental conditions are perfect for the growth of moss.
Taken by myself, February 24, 2024, in Elk Falls Provincial Park near Campbell River
Mosses in temperate rainforests provide crucial ecological services, enhancing the well-being of surrounding flora and ecosystems (OpenAI, 2024). Their remarkable ability to absorb and retain water helps regulate moisture levels in the soil, preventing rapid runoff and aiding in erosion control. Mosses contribute to soil structure and nutrient cycling by trapping organic matter and decomposing, releasing essential nutrients for plant growth. Acting as insulation, they regulate soil temperature, create microhabitats for diverse organisms, and stabilize the terrain, reducing the risk of landslides. Moss-covered branches contribute to canopy structure, providing additional microenvironments for epiphytic plants and animals. Overall, mosses play key roles in biodiversity support, carbon sequestration, and ecosystem health in temperate rainforest environments.
Taken by myself, February 24, 2024, of moss, growing on a big leaf maple
For people who have not experienced life on the island, the amount of moss that grows in and around the surrounding foliage can be quite entrancing. It appears as a thick blanket over many trees, yet it is quite difficult to differentiate one type of moss from another unless you know a lot about the plants/trees that surround it. Some mosses may contain toxins or other harmful substances, and the risk of contamination from pollutants, pesticides, or other environmental factors can make them unsafe for consumption. It is crucial to exercise extreme caution and consult with experts in botany or ethnobotany before attempting to eat any type of moss.
The following description of the importance of Salal, which can be found in abundance on Vancouver Island, was generated by ChatGPT (italic text). We found this, as well as many other native trees and plants, on a hike to Mt Crest in Strathcona Park.
Salal (Gaultheria shallon) holds a position of ecological prominence on Vancouver Island, playing a vital role in the island’s diverse ecosystems. As a native shrub, it contributes significantly to habitat support and biodiversity. Its dense growth provides shelter and sustenance for various wildlife, including birds, insects, and mammals. Salal’s resilience and adaptability make it a key player in preventing soil erosion, particularly crucial in the rugged landscapes of Vancouver Island.
Beyond its ecological significance, salal is deeply ingrained in the cultural fabric of the region. Indigenous communities have historically utilized the plant for medicinal purposes, basket weaving, and ceremonial activities. The leaves of salal, with their distinctive properties, carry a wealth of traditional knowledge, emphasizing the plant’s importance as more than just a botanical entity. This cultural connection underscores the intertwined relationship between the people of Vancouver Island and the natural resources that have sustained them for generations.
Salal’s impact extends into commercial and aesthetic realms, further emphasizing its importance. In the floral industry, the glossy, dark green leaves of salal are prized for their decorative qualities, adding texture and visual appeal to floral arrangements and wreaths. Landscapers appreciate Salal for its evergreen foliage, contributing to the year-round beauty of gardens and natural landscapes. In this way, salal transcends its ecological and cultural roles, making a tangible mark on both the economic and visual landscapes of Vancouver Island.
While hiking through the scenic terrains of Vancouver Island, particularly in places like Strathcona Park, the prevalence of Salal enhances the overall experience. The sight of its vibrant leaves and occasional clusters of berries adds a layer of natural beauty to the trails, serving as a reminder of the intricate connections between the island’s ecology and its cultural heritage. Salal, with its multifaceted importance, stands as a symbol of the resilience, adaptability, and interconnectedness that define Vancouver Island’s unique and precious ecosystems.
This week’s nature exploration took place in Gowlland Tod Provincial Park, specifically Jocelyn Hill. I love this hike as it is not too far from the city and takes a reasonable 2-3 hours depending on how leisurely we feel like going. Another reason I like it is due to all of the Arbutus trees scattered throughout. When I first came to Victoria in 2013, I was intrigued by these trees as they are so unique looking and easy to identify.
Taken by myself (Cameron Lynka) on Feb 10, 2024
The Arbutus is Canada’s only native broad-leafed Evergreen and is an iconic and prominent feature of Vancouver Island’s coastal landscape. Thriving in the island’s temperate rainforest environment, the Arbutus tree graces the landscape with its unique, smooth, reddish-brown bark that peels away to reveal a fresh layer beneath, creating a mosaic-like pattern. Its glossy, elliptical leaves and clusters of fragrant white to pale pink flowers in late spring add to the tree’s aesthetic appeal. The berries, though not typically consumed by humans, play a vital role in the island’s ecosystem, providing sustenance for local wildlife. Vancouver Island’s Arbutus trees often cling to rocky slopes, contributing to erosion control and showcasing their adaptability to diverse environments. With cultural significance for indigenous communities and symbolizing resilience, the Arbutus tree on Vancouver Island is not just a botanical specimen but an integral part of the island’s natural and cultural heritage (OpenAI. (2024). ChatGPT(3.5) [Large language model].).
Taken by myself (Cameron Lynka) on Feb 10, 2024
The fact that the Arbutus tree helps mitigate erosion is very interesting. I didn’t recognize that most of the Arbutus trees I have seen have been on the classic Vancouver Island hikes, along the coastline or on the side of mountains. Something I didn’t take a picture of, but I’m sure you’ve seen if you’ve hiked anywhere on Vancouver Island, are carvings into Arbutus trees. As referenced by Rae Costain of The Land Conservancy of BC, “Because of the very smooth appearance of the inner bark, Arbutus is particularly susceptible to vandalism. In areas of frequent human traffic, Arbutus trees are often carved, scarred, and initialed. This can be extremely harmful to the tree as sites where the bark is cut are more easily infected with parasites and other diseases”. We need to recognize the importance of these native plants and give them respect.
I cycled around Victoria! I love hopping on my road bike and flying around the city. Being able to see so much of Victoria in just a couple of hours always feels so rewarding. On the ride, I stopped at a couple of places for lunch & a coffee to give myself a break and take in the beautiful views.
Taken by myself (Cameron Lynka) on Feb 3, 2024
On the ride, I listened to this podcast about “opening up your worldview” through indigenous foods. Don’t worry, I wasn’t zooming along through traffic with noise-cancelling headphones. I wear these bone-conduction headphones that don’t actually go inside your ears at all! Highly recommend them if you like running or cycling. The guest on this episode, Sean Sherman, is an Oglala Lakota (South Dakota) chef who uses only locally grown and sourced ingredients in his cooking. He explores the foods eaten by First Nations communities and learns about indigenous food systems to offer recipes based on pre-contact, pre-European contact ingredients. His work aims to celebrate and preserve the culinary heritage of Native American communities.
This intentional connection that Sean makes to place is the next step forward I want to take in my understanding of the local environment. Envisioning the surrounding land as opportunities for food collection and knowing how to use what is naturally grown on the island is the most sustainable way to live. I also love how on the podcast he denounces the traditional “yards” people have on their property. If we grew food instead of growing plants/trees for aesthetic purposes, just imagine the abundance of vegetables & fruits we could have. I appreciated his message and look forward to learning more about how to sustainably & intentionally live.
Accessed from my Strava account, tracking route via GPS
On January 3rd, my partner and I went stayed in a cabin next to Westwood Lake Park near Nanaimo. Our trips almost always consist of eating great food and exploring nature, and this one was no different. We hiked up Mt. Benson and tracked the route on Strava:
We were quickly immersed in a thick forest, with the hiking being a typical switchback route that was quite steep. It was peaceful, with no sound of cars or any city life. Instead, the only sounds we heard were those from our feet, other hikers, and the wind rustling the branches. Not too long into the hike, we found this Western Red Cedar that appeared to have been burnt just high enough to allow us to burrow inside of it:
Western red cedars have a long history on Vancouver Island and make up some of the oldest, biggest trees that exist here. In fact, the largest tree in Canada is a red cedar by the name of “The Cheewhat Giant”, which spans over 6 meters in trunk diameter and 56 metres high. It is these types of trees (as well as others) that help make up the old-growth forest that provides such rich biodiversity on the island. Known for its reddish-brown bark, aromatic wood, and resistance to decay, the tree holds cultural significance for indigenous peoples who have traditionally used it for various purposes, from crafting totem poles and canoes to weaving baskets. Vancouver Island’s moist climate provides an ideal habitat for these trees, supporting biodiversity and offering recreational opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Conservation efforts are crucial to sustain the health of Western red cedar populations and preserve their ecosystems in this region.
Protecting old-growth forests is paramount for their diverse ecological roles, as they foster biodiversity, act as crucial carbon sinks, regulate water cycles, and provide habitats for endangered species. Preserving these ancient stands contributes to genetic diversity, ensuring resilience in the face of environmental changes. Old-growth forests also offer recreational and aesthetic value, benefiting communities, and serve as valuable sites for scientific research on complex ecological processes. The conservation of these ecosystems is essential for mitigating climate change, maintaining water resources, and sustaining the overall health of our planet, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach to human activities to ensure a harmonious coexistence with these irreplaceable natural environments.
A very windy, cold peak where we sat and had lunch while Whisky Jack tried to steal it
Initially, my free inquiry was going to be about broadening my knowledge of countries through learning of their language, recreating foods, and investigating some of the history of their culture. While this inquiry is something I am interested in delving into, I did not know if I would have the capacity to do this weekly. Instead, I will reflect on my experiences in nature, going on a walk/run/hike and learning about the surrounding foliage. This inquiry came to fruition because of my love for being outside, feeling myself as part of nature but not at its centre. I will attempt to discover this: Does intentional connection to place make you feel more connected to it?
Bonnie on her first walk away from home (and her puppies)
On January 20th, 2024, my partner Sarah (who is doing a similar inquiry in the French PDP cohort), Bonnie (our dog), and I went for a walk around Cedar Hill Park. This part encloses the Cedar Hill golf course, which I have played once before. This space is beautiful and full of native and invasive vegetation. As we traversed the snow, I began to recognize us as the invasive species in the park. it was not natural to use this huge green space as a place for only the well-off would play a round of “hit this small bole into a tiny hole for no particular reason”. For what purpose, and what meaning? What if we considered these lands beyond their current intended purpose? I want to explore these ideas about the importance of giving back land to the people, all of the people.
Garry Oak tree in Cedar Hill Park
As we walked, there were these majestic Garry Oak trees scattered around the park. In a way, the branches reminded me of what my understanding of mycelium networks looks like underground. The Garry Oak tree, named after Nicholas Garry, is a symbol of resilience in British Columbia. These majestic trees feature twisted branches with glossy, evergreen leaves. They have played a crucial role in both indigenous ecosystems and human history, providing habitats for wildlife and cultural significance with their edible acorns. Despite urbanization threats to their habitats, conservation efforts are underway to preserve the legacy of Garry Oak trees in the natural heritage of British Columbia. It is the only oak tree native to British Columbia.
But…why? Why protect and conserve native plant species? Conserving and protecting native plant species is critical for preserving biodiversity, ecosystem health, and cultural heritage. Native plants play integral roles in their ecosystems, contributing to nutrient cycling, soil health, and supporting local wildlife. They have evolved to adapt to specific environmental conditions, promoting resilience. Preservation of native species helps prevent the displacement of indigenous flora by invasive species, maintains ecological balance, and sustains complex relationships with local pollinators. Additionally, native plants contribute to environmental sustainability, requiring fewer resources such as water, fertilizer, and pesticides compared to non-native species, thereby minimizing the ecological impact of landscaping and agriculture.
Bonnie clearing the way
I hope to discover more of the land and my place on it in future posts. Thank you free taking the time to read!
