Good Pics

Don't get too excited. My photography skills have not improved enough to deem any of my pictures "good". The title of this post comes from the name of the park, Good Earth State Park. It is our state's newest park and is conveniently located a few miles from my house.

The park is said to be one of the oldest sites of long-term human habitation in the United States. The Oneata Tradition Peoples used the rich habitat as a gathering place from 1300-1700 A.D. The information center at the park has an interactive museum highlighting the rich history of the area.

My primary interest in the park is, you guessed it, birds. There are many trails to explore and the habitat is definitely bird friendly.

Near the visitor's center is a bird feeding station sponsored by the Sioux Falls Bird Club. I am a member of the club so I feel some sense of ownership in the buffet.

A newer viewing bench was just installed so folks can relax and watch the birds at the feeding station. Blue jays, chickadees, downy woodpeckers, nuthatches, finches and house sparrows are just a few of the birds who enjoy the seed offerings. (Pro tip: The composite material of the bench gets searingly hot in the summertime sun. Limit your time on the bench unless you want a sizzly butt.)

There are many wooded trails for your walking pleasure. It is an easy walk downward on the trails. Climbing back up, however, can be a wheezer at times. Good for the cardio, less so for the knees.

The park is kind to bladders and has vault toilets spaced along the trails. I have never given them a test drive but I find it comforting to know they are nearby, just in case. My over-active imagination also sees them as a possible refuge in the event of a rabid squirrel or an ax murderer.

Some portions of the trail open up to riparian areas near the Sioux River. Killdeer like to shriek at me with their reminders that this is their habitat. Eastern Wood Pe-wees keep me company with their sweet songs and Indigo Buntings join in the chorus. It's a free concert I never get tired of hearing.

The viewing decks along the trails give anyone who takes the time to stop a breathtaking panoramic view of the river and rolling hills. It is no mystery why this place held a special meaning to so many people throughout the centuries. It continues to dazzle.

The forest floor is no less rich in views. Mushrooms, wildflowers, acorns and little critters are reminders of the variety of ecosystems found in the park. Fungi always fascinate me. Don't worry, I do not taste test them.

If you want to bring out your inner butterfly, there is a photo opportunity ready to help you out. It is near a butterfly shed that is used to educate kids about our lepidopteran friends. Red-headed woodpeckers also love to hang out here.

Good advice for all of us.

One more bit of advice: There is no shame in taking your time.