Saunders-Monticello Trail

"The Saunders -Monticello Trail is truly a beautiful trail achievement as it winds its way 2 miles up Carter Mountain to the entrance of Monticello, the home of Thomas Jefferson. The entire trail never exceeds a 5% incline making it wheelchair accessible. The trail starts at the base of Carter Mountain at the Kemper Park and Arboretum. From here the trail winds through native plantings and gradually begins its ascent, passing by a small manmade pond edged with bull rushes that is well worth a closer look. Green herons can be seen stalking small fish along its banks and the rushes usually hold some skulking song and occasional swamp sparrows.

The trail was designed to reflect how Thomas Jefferson wanted his home to be approached as he wrote:

Of prospect I have a rich profusion – it may be successfully offered, & in different portions through vistas…with the advantage of shifting scenes as you advance on your way." -- Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources

Waiting

Had quite a conversation yesterday with this ewe. From what I could gather, she was a little agitated about her breakfast being late, although, to be fair to her handlers, I think sheep are always just a little bit agitated whenever it comes to matters involving food. :-)

Retention Pond

 

A bit of explanation probably called for here.

Several of the stormwater retention ponds near me have been neglected for quite a while.

As a result, they've been allowed to become overgrown to the point that the roots of trees have begun to interfere with their drainage systems.

Hence, the excavator.