Stomping Ground
Here’s a view from our favorite stomping ground over to our second favorite stomping ground. All within minutes of our house. Love AZ 🙂 CLICK HERE to see a larger version.
Posts from the ‘McDowell Sonoran Preserve’ Category
Feb 1
Jan 30
Milkweed Seeds
On a hike yesterday, we came across a huge Rambling Milkweed vine which made me think about how much fun it is to photograph the seedpods once they burst open. Can’t wait to do it again! Here’s a shot from last year. Captured with a Lensbaby.
Jan 29
Desert Broom
Desert Broom gets a bad rap here even though it’s a native. In the desert, it minds its own business growing along side other shrubs but if seeds land in disturbed soil, it grows so quickly that it is perceived to be an invasive. It’s also been accused of being highly allergenic but I’ve read this has been dis-proven. Personally I like it but I love all desert plants and really enjoy documenting their growth cycle. Here’s what it looks like after the fuzzy seeds have been blown off. (Desert Broom with a couple of texture layers)
Jan 28
Ranch History
Cattle Ranching is another fascinating part of our history here. Here’s a remnant from Browns Ranch. (Color image with added texture and color tinting to give an aged look.)
Jan 25
Geology
I’m absolutely fascinated with the geology of our area and have been learning a little while collecting geology related photos for an up-coming MSC field guide. The top of Browns Mountain (in the background) is made up of volcanic rock from ancient lava flows. While looking for a good photo of the basalt all over the ground around the mountain, this odd depression caught my eye. Marianne Scenarian (as I’m sometimes called) pictures a lava bubble coming to the surface. Gotta ask about it 🙂
Jan 24
Photography Exhibit
I’m honored to be among 7 photographers featured in an exhibit at the Scottsdale Center for Performing Arts (second street). Especially so because my 13 foot panorama of the McDowell Mountains is front and center! I also have several other pieces you might recognize if you follow my blog (bike/sunrise, 3 poppies and coyote). The panorama and coyote were mounted by Artisan Colour who I recommend HIGHLY! The panorama had to be especially difficult to work with but not only did they do a fantastic job but to my surprise they rushed it at no extra expense. Thanks so much guys! You have my work from now on 🙂
The exhibit is up from January 24 through February 16. CLICK HERE for a short video of the gallery space.
Jan 23
Spring has Sprung-maybe
Storksbill Filaree is one of the first wildflowers to appear in the Spring and we’re seeing a lot of it up in the North Access area of the Mcdowell Sonoran Preserve. However, it’s appearance could just be the result of our extra warm Winter so I’m not giving official notice yet. Barring a hard frost, though, it does look like we might be in for a good Spring Bloom!
Jan 22
Happy Anniversary MSC
This month marks the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy‘s 20th year! Lots of festivities the the Gateway Trailhead enjoyed by stewards of all shapes and sizes 🙂
