Welcome to my photoblog on:
Howell Woods Environmental Learning Center
Visit my photoblog fan page on facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Photoblog-By-James-Howell-Woods/233829593470397
My name is James. I am a senior at South Johnston High School in Benson, NC.
I am a huge outdoor enthusiast. Nothing like being out in nature to me. I am
considering a career in ecology or environmental research but not 100% certain at this
point. My family and I have been visiting Howell Woods Environmental Learning Center
in Four Oaks, NC for many years. Last year I was lucky enough to become a volunteer
at Howell Woods. Although I do not get to volunteer as often as I would like
due to my school schedule, I am grateful whenever I can. I spend my time there helping
where ever needed and learning as much as possible.
So what is Howell Woods?
The Rudolph Howell & Son Environmental Learning Center, or
Howell Woods, is a unique 2,800-acre natural resource designed to
provide excellent recreational and educational experiences while
fostering environmental stewardship. It is a great place
to explore, hike, bicycle, bird watch, hunt, fish, camp, picnic or come
to see the exhibits, museum, and visit the birds of prey, just to name a
few. Howell Woods also offers classes and rents out conference rooms
for corporate meetings.
As a project for school I started this photoblog to share my passion of being outdoors with
others and to help bring awareness and support for Howell Woods
Environmental Learning Center. I plan to utilize technology, social
media and photography in hopes to inspire and motivate others to get
outdoors, to enjoy and treasure the many diverse resources this state
has to offer. It is a concern to me that many people my age seem less
interested in being outdoors and enjoying nature. Sure we have many
involved in team sports and that is great but let's not forget about
visiting and supporting our State Parks and places like Howell Woods.
You might find that you too have a love for the outdoors.
We are
becoming a society that is heavily influenced by social media. Most
everyone today is involved in some form of social media be it for
personal or business purposes. My thought is to engage others on this
social platform for the benefit of our natural resources and our state
parks. It is also a way for me to share my love of nature with others.
So I hope you enjoy my photoblog on Howell Woods. I add new content at
least monthly so visit again and again. I plan to start other photoblogs
featuring different NC State Parks in the near future.
Perhaps
we'll all find ways to connect with others who share this interest and
gain support for NC State Parks. Like my fan page if you want. I appreciate your time and your support.
If you've never been to
Howell Woods I hope this blog will peak your interest enough that you
will visit. It is a treasure located in Johnston County and one of my
favorite places.
To learn more about Howell Woods click on the link below.
http://www.johnstoncc.edu/howellwoods/
Jordan Astoske
Director of Howell Woods
jtastoske@johnstoncc.edu
(919) 938-0115 ext. 221
"Have a great day, spend it outdoors!"
James
* * * Upcoming Event * * *
Howell Woods' WOODSTOCK 2014
(Mark your calendar and plan to join us for fun for the whole family.)
April 5th, 2014
Starting at 1:00p.m.
Please visit link below for the schedule of events
See below for the March blog and photos.
_________________________________________________________________
March 2014
The recent snow made for a rare sight and some nice photos at Howell Woods.
Hope you enjoy them. I am also listing some benefits of winter to the environment
and to us.
The cold temperatures and snow kills insects.
Extended periods of low temperatures are especially helpful in killing pesky insects
and their larvae. Because of this year's unusually harsh winter, it's estimated that as much
as 90 percent of the insects in Minnesota might have died.
Lakes also benefit from the from the winter's ice frozen
covering because the ice reduces evaporation rates. This should help
stabilize the lakes' water levels, which have been dropping in recent
years.
Snow melting provides water for the health of the animals, plants, and soil in the area.
Funny that this boardwalk, here covered in snow, was built in the
summer's heat by some volunteers, including myself.
There are many health benefits for walking and exercising in
cold weather.
By getting outdoors you can prevent cabin fever. More sunlight is helpful for maintaining
good levels of
Vitamin D. It improves your mood and you actually burn more calories by
exercising in the cold. There are many miles of trails at Howell Woods to enjoy
even in the winter.
Each season brings about different views in which to observe the trails. The presence of snow brought about several sights that, before, were difficult to notice.
Winter allows for opportunities to clear the trails of brush that has overgrown into the
paths and trails during the warmer seasons.
The snow is an excellent insulator for gardens and landscapes, protecting these
natural areas and their animal inhabitants against frigid temperatures
and damaging winds.
The slow melting of snow helps keep moisture
for plants and trees and their root systems. This is especially needed
when producing buds and foliage.
Next month I will feature photos and info from "Woodstock 2014".
Please attend and support Howell Woods!
"Have a great day, spend it outdoors!"
James
Email any question to jandwgiddens@gmail.com or post directly to this blog.
All photos are copyright of James Giddens or Wade Giddens
