Category Archives: Nature

Discover the Natural Beauty of Southeastern Oklahoma

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If Oklahoma brings to mind vast plains and grasslands, you might be surprised to learn about the existence of forests and mountains in southeast Oklahoma. A vacation to the region gives you an opportunity to get away from it all and get back to nature. Autumn visits are sure to please with fall foliage displays that rival those seen further east. Revive and unwind while hiking, paddling or fishing, then return to peaceful lodgings at Beavers Bend Resort Park cabins.

Hiking Trails

You will find a plethora of hiking trails in Beavers Bend State Park. While a majority of the trails are rated easy to moderate, the 8.6-mile Skyline Loop offers a challenge for more experienced hikers. Grab a trail map with ratings and reviews to find the perfect hiking paths for your trip, whether you are looking for a short, casual stroll or a heart-pumping full-day trek.

Kayaking or Canoeing

The clear, cool waters of the Mountain Fork River make it a perfect place for your kayak or canoe outing. Paddle your way through tall stands of trees and along rocky hillsides. Stop for a picnic and a snooze on the shores. You can find anything from 4-mile trips to multi-day expeditions for whatever floats your boat!

Fishing

The 14,000-acre Broken Bow Lake is surrounded by the forested Kiamichi Mountains. The entire site is managed by the Army Corps of Engineers, so you will be rewarded with unbroken views of natural beauty while out on a fishing boat excursion in the middle of the lake. Hire a guide to find the best locations to toss your line on this large body of water.

Eastern Oklahoma offers a beautiful setting for a quick getaway or a longer vacation. You will find plenty of outdoor activities to rejuvenate or relax. Set your sights on something new and plan your next holiday getaway to Broken Bow, OK.

Landscaping in a Dry Climate

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Outdoor spaces are essential for bringing us close to nature. Being in a green space has a positive effect on our health and psyche. When you live in a dry climate or are going through a drought, it can be challenging to maintain the plants you love. Fortunately, there are some tips for landscaping when you don’t have access to an ever-flowing source of water.

Xeriscaping

Xeriscaping is the art of creating a pleasing outdoor space that doesn’t require water from irrigation. In this kind of design, you’ll empty plants that are native to the region, so they are accustomed to the soil and levels of rainfall. Lawns typically cannot exist in xeriscaping, but gravel and native grasses take its place. There’s a peacefulness to a landscape designed with xeriscaping in mind. There’s no concern about watering or protecting from frost or pests.

Artificial Turf

If you’re someone who loves the way a green lawn makes you feel, consider investing in synthetic turf. It may cost you upfront, but the amount of time and money you will save on maintenance will be worth the initial price. Artificial turf Thousand Oaks has some great examples. It is so realistic now; you really can’t tell the difference unless you inspect it.

Permaculture

Permaculture is a way to design your outdoor space, so there is no energy loss. Many of you have heard of companion planting. When you plant corn an beans next to each other, the nutrients one plant puts in the soil, the other plant uses, and vice versa. This idea can be applied to your whole home and yard if done correctly. For irrigation needs, you can harvest rainwater or install a gray water system.

Just because you live in the desert or are experiencing a drought does not mean you can’t have a beautiful garden!

Preserving the Beauty of Wetlands

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Taking care of the eco-system is an important role, especially when man-made changes impact local vegetation and wildlife. In the area of Florida, there are many littoral zones that need upkeep, since the zone is a requirement for many of the man-made lakes.

Photo by Dave on Unsplash

The Significance of Littoral Zones

Man-made lakes can impact a healthy ecosystem, but the right littoral zone can prevent erosion, improve water quality, and provide a safe habitat for local wildlife. For many of the areas in Florida, any lakes that are deeper than 6 feet and are greater than an acre in size require a zone. For a littoral zone, native plants cover approximately 80% of the vegetation. Another 10% of the area is covered with exotic plants. The diversity allows for native animal life to find a home, but the increased consumption of nitrogen and phosphorus by native life reduces the build of aquatic weeds and algae. Because of the growth that can occur and the displacement of wildlife, it is very important that the area is professionally maintained. You can establish a routine cleanout or upkeep with one of the littoral shelf maintenance Sarasota FL companies.

Zone Benefits

The aesthetic properties of a littoral zone are one of the prime benefits, especially when you are dealing with professional or residential areas. The natural beauty it offers can raise the value of the property, which is always a benefit for resale value. A zone can also be used to prevent erosion. The nutrients from the surrounding wetland make the roots of any plants on the shoreline stronger, making the bank more durable. This is another reason why proper maintenance is important. It helps stabilize the shoreline and improve water quality.

A littoral zone, though potentially required, is beneficial to both native wildlife and community residents. When it is well-maintained, it can be a beautiful but productive habitat.