Rest and restoration

Take a load off on this nice bench! Check out the vegetation in front of you, both in the foreground and background. The tall trees that serve as the backdrop are mostly blue gum (Eucalyptus globulus), an Australian species that was widely planted in the East Bay where it now forms dense stands. Because eucalyptus burns explosively in hot fires—and because it produces allelochemicals that inhibit the growth of native species—land managers and restoration ecologists advocate for removal of eucalyptus trees from natural areas. Note that in the foreground, where the eucs have been cut, redwood (Sequoia sempervirens) and other tree species have been planted. The cages around these plants help to protect them from hungry deer and human clumsiness. Listen for bird song from this point, and try to find birds overhead or flitting in the vegetation. As soon as you let your mind quiet down you may realize how many birds are audible in all directions. Try to calm your mind for a couple minutes and describe what you hear.