#need to make a proper wildlife pond :)

[hugforslug]

Exploring my little pond

[echantedtoon]

Demonstober Day 1 Dragon

A mythical monster resembling a giant reptile, sometimes shown as having wings. In European tradition the dragon is typically feared and tends to cause chaos or evil, whereas in East Asia it is usually a symbol of fertility, associated with water and the heavens.

(Warnings for death mentioned.)

Tagging: @lavenderdropp @six-eyed-samurai @trancylovecraft @cherrysuzaku

Remember if you want to be added to the spooktober taglist lemme know

Matagi.

Only the most fearsome hunters of the village were allowed to be hunters and go up into the mountains and bring back big game of elk and bear. It's always been this way generation after generation to not displease the gods. And honestly whoever heard of a woman matagi anyways? It was unheard of. A woman's place was at home tending to children and keeping up the housework. 

At least that's what you've always been told. 

By both your parents. 

Since you were little, you had no interest in becoming a typical housewife. Staying home all day and night, doing laundry, scrubbing floors, and being at the beck and call of whatever man was 'gracious' enough to take you as a wife. No. No you weren't going to do that. You wanted to go hunt and earn your living the same way your father did before you before he passed away from a bear attack when you were very little. 

Unfortunately both your parents agreed that it wasn't an option for you. Your father was more gentle about it always refusing to teach you how to use a bow and arrow but he did show you how to make traps for game capture. Meanwhile your mother was so much stricter. If she so much as saw you holding a mere rope or just even looking longingly at the weapons your father would use, she yell, scream, and drag you forcibly by the back of your kimono and 'set you straight'. Which meant she'd make you scrub floors until your hands and knees were numb, practice embroidery until you couldn't feel your fingers, or other things 'a proper woman is supposed to be doing.'

You came to resent her after that, because after your father's death her insistence became overwhelming. You couldn't even go outside without her checking you for weapons. Not even the other matagi hunters thought you were a good enough hunter. One even offered to marry you because-

"If you can't be one you might as well marry one to continue your father's legacy."

Your mother agreed but you refused. But jokes on them! You hid everything you needed in the woods near your home. All you had to do was go out and set up the traps just like your father taught you! And not just any traps! Bear traps! If you brought back something as big as a elk, moose, or especially a bear then everyone have to take you seriously as a matagi hunter! So the very last night when your mother was asleep, you had snuck out into the snowy night and gathered up the ropes from under the rock you hid them under, and ventured up into the mountain to set up your trap. There was a small pond up in the mountains that they say is the home to an ancient dragon-

However no one believed it.

If asked by the matagi hunters then they'd laugh at you and say that some old superstitious ancestors who thought everything revolved around spirits and spooks. You've been up to the pond several times yourself out of curiosity and to see if the water would attract wildlife but you never saw anything either. But do you know what you DID see last time you went there? TRACKS!! They were all misshapen by the new falling snow and the fact whatever it was had been dragging something, but they were big enough to be a bear's! The trail ended just at the Water's edge which was strange but it was snowing so the trail must've been already gone. 

But there was definitely some big game going through there!! 

But first things first! You needed to have all the advantages you could get! So along with the rope, you brought a long some homemade ohagi and some yen. Even if there was no dragon, an offering might at least bring you good luck. Plus it never hurts to be on the safe side. 

The snow crunched under your feet, and your breath turned to fog around your head as you huffed and puffed through the night. Trying to be quiet to not disturb the wildlife in case a good buck was roaming about. Step after step you took until you got passed some bushes. And-

AH! THERE IT WAS!

The moonlight sparkled off the snow and shine on the water like little stars floating on the surface. It was peaceful without any life in sight. Human or animal and no sounds except for the breeze coldly rustling through the branches and your steps as you walked forward and stopped at the Water's edge. Smiling down at the pretty reflection before giving a breath, getting on your knees, and bowing.

"Please, Oh Great Wise Dragon. Allow me to capture something  to show for my actions. I humbly offer you this offering as appeasement." 

Snow crunched softly as you gently placed the food and money, wrapped up in a cloth right by the Water's edge before standing back up and dusting yourself off and turning around starting to lift the strings of heavy ropes off your shoulders. Ok! Time to get to work. You'd set up a really big trap here for the bear and then add a lot of little traps around the area! The more traps the better chance you'd have to actually catch something.

You didn't notice the soft hand gently reaching out of the pool to wrap itself around your gift before disappearing back down into the water without so much as a sound. 

You made sure to set up one big trap hidden in some snow a little bit away from the pond before going around to set five smaller traps in various places near the biggest one making sure to study and remember where each one was before quickly leaving the area. You needed to get back home before your mother woke up and found you gone muttering to yourself.

"I'll come back tomorrow night and see if I caught anything."

And then you promptly left. Back home with just enough time to skip inside and hang up your winter coat before your mother got up to start working again. You had to wait all day and then a little bit into the night for your mother to sleep again before you could slip out by night and run up to the place where you set up the traps. Giddily looking at each one until you stopped by the smallest one furthest away from the pond. Your eyes widened at what you saw-

Oh my. It was.. beautiful!

The purest of white rabbits sat there in the rope trap with its back leg caught up in the string. It's fur so fluffy and white that it rivaled the snow itself. Perfect for making a muff that could sell for a good fifty yen. It's neat could make good soup for at least a week. Pink eyes blinked up at you oddly calmly wide eyes catching the moonlight and sparkling like rubies. Ok! Ok! You can do this! You can do this! Just one slice! Hands fumbled for the dagger tied to your side, shakily reaching it up into the air. Moonlight gleaming off the silver metal-

... Before you lowered it staring at the innocent face blinking up at you..And sighed.

You know what? This rabbit is too small anyways. It's not worth the effort and anyone could catch a rabbit. You decided to cut the rope around it's foot. Immediately it bolted off. Shooting up snow before it stopped just a few yards away looked at you for a few seconds before scattering away disappearing into the snow.

You sighed again picketing the blade. "I'll come back again tomorrow. Maybe something bigger will be here by then."

You did just that. Coming back the next night you found yet another prize even more beautiful than the fluffy rabbit. A absolutely BEAUTIFUL red fox. It's sleek fur shiny and such a beautiful orange like a tiger lily just blooming. It stared at you with beautiful eyes as it dangled from the rope wrapped around it's middle. ..That looked painful for the poor thing as it just stared at you with big eyes-

No. This wouldn't do either. It was...still too small even if it's pelt would've been worth at least a good hundred yen. So you cut it down and watched as it ran off into the darkness and disappeared from sight leaving only a few tracks for your work. You'll come back tomorrow night and see what else you might get. 

The next night was possibly the best one.

For there was the most beautiful creature of all.  

A doe. Graceful and as beautifully brown as chocolate. Her big body and meat could go for more than the fox and rabbit combined. Her hide could make perfect bags. Her head sold as a trophy to place on the wall and yet-...

She ran away as soon as you cut the rope from her neck. Bounding quickly away through the trees like she was flying almost.  She was...still too small. You needed something like an elk or moose to really show your worth and how well your traps worked! 

"I need something really special in my nets," you thought out loud to yourself. Instantly the mental image of your mother nagging you to get married already popped into your mind. Making you huff. "Like a husband. That way my life can be completed."

You chuckled to yourself as you started home. Imagining the funny scenario of one of those rude hunters dangling and yelling from your ropes like a fish on a hook. It made you feel the tiniest bit better about the losses you had when you went home to wait for the fifth night again to go back to the pond. 

You took your time just imagining what could be in your next trap. A juicy elk. A big moose. Or maybe a majestic bear! Your traps have been so successful so far so that proves you could be a successful matagi!  When night finally fell and your mother slept you took your coat and exited back where you came. Through the cold and snowy night. Carefully trudging through the snow towards your destination until arriving again to check the remaining three traps you didn't destroy cutting the animals free. The two little ones were empty upsetting you. But you had high hopes for the last one. As you slowly approached the bush. AND perking up as something large moved from inside the bushes. As your hands grabbed your dagger and slowly pulled back the branches ready to strike the bear-

"Oh hello. It's very nice to finally meet you face to face."

You stood there frozen. Your eyes meeting purple orbs with black cat like slits.

Sitting in the snow before you was a man. Or.. what looked like a man. Aman a little bit taller than you say there perfectly content in the snow with beautiful robes draped over his body. Now a man dressed like a wealthy noble sitting in the middle of the woods would've been so weird enough...if he didn't have two white horns poking out from his head, cat like eyes, and a long purple lizard tail poking out from the base of his spine. The tail had white fluffy hair running down it's length ending in a fluffy tuft of hair and a rope was wrapped around it suspended it in the air as he sat. 

However despite everything he smiled at you.

You still stared at him wide eyed. Dragger dropping from your hand to land with a thud in the snow. There was silence for another minute before you finally spoke. "I-...W-Who?"

"My apologies." He slightly bowed to you. "My name is Ubuyashiki. I am the Guardian of this mountain region. You'll forgive me for surprising you like this, but I haven't had any visitors for quite some time. "

"I-..V-Visitors?"

"Indeed. You see I used to have many visitors coming to leave me offers but I think sadly I've been reduced to a mere legend until you came by days ago and left me that delicious food. So in return I tried my best to grant you your wish of a good prey."

Wait a minute-

"Wait. So this entire time..it w-was YOU who put those animals in my trap?"

He nodded. "However you never seemed satisfied with what I brought you but then you mentioned wanting to catch a husband within a trap." He slowly stood up making you realize how close you were. "And I have been rather lonely these past ten thousand years." His smile was gentle, kind. Despite having sharp claws they gently scratched your face as he tilted his head up to you with a smile. "It would be so nice to have a companion as kind hearted as you for my partner."

You swallowed the lump in your throat under his gaze. Perhaps your hunting skills were a little too much.

[aelfheimerandrobots]

Sims au: Old Helex, Castle Heights, Old Dreadnaught Castle| Overlord

Brought to you by popular demand we are now featuring a tour of the infamous, Dreadnaught Castle! This castle has gone by many names over the centuries and certainly has a reputation of a sort but it's current owner has certainly done quite a deal to turn this crumbling old fortress into a magnificent mansion! Now this tour may take us awhile ( a reblog or two) due to its sheer size, but don't let that deter you! This masterpiece is worth the long walk! Should you survive ....

Rather than a street view look we'll start this tour with an aerial shot of this sprawling estate. From it's magnificent front towers to it's beautiful gardens and lovely private pool this mansion features of plenty modern touches to bring the crumbling relic up to our contemporary standards. With solar panels galore, on-site farming, rain capture water heaters, and natural springs this space does it's best to erase whatever carbon footprint it might take to keep this place up and running. And the incredibly manicured gardens surely- wait...do those trees look...phallic to anyone else?

*ahem* Yes, well, phalic nature of the tree-lined exterior approach aside, the gardens are excellently maintained and offer lovely moments of picturesque splendor in this quaint countryside. And what a front walk this makes for! With a romantic fountain, iron lampposts, and an expansive patio with elegant architecture this space certainly holds to higher standard of elegance and atmosphere.

Continuing our tour of the grounds, we'll be starting with the southern garden path. This lovely pathway beckons us in with a fantastical archway and leads down an ancient but lovingly restored path to the Castle's growing fields. While not terribly expansive this section of the grounds do offer horribly fertile ground to grow grapes for the ground's famous in-house wine. I'm told that most of the manor's food needs can also be supplemented from these fields and offer a lovely tableau for the grilling and picnicking area adjacent to the fields. This outdoor rest area looks out perfectly over the estate's expansive pond, which we will happily explore next!

This large pond can be easily accessed via the posterior entrance to the estate grounds as well as from the Castle directly. The Castle entrance here leads from the ground-floor laundry and storage area directly onto this waterway and it's lovely collection of flora and fauna. With romantic archways and grottoes reserved for enjoying the beauty of nature one can hardly blame Overlord, the current owner, from doing his best to stock the pond with local wildlife. Why there's a lovely pair of swans who- Is that an Alligator? No not the log, the thing next to the log. I saw it move! I did! Right there! I- ugh... okay fine. Let's move on to finish the tour of the grounds.

This long back walk opens toward the road leading to the estate and back out to the road, allowing access to staff and guests alike from the rear should they not wish to traverse the long drive to the front entrance of the estate. Though, I'm told it's bad manners to approach the estate in this manner. The walk is lined with lovely memorials to beloved pets who once walked these grounds and opens up to the west side of the grounds which feature a historical graveyard that has largely been overtaken by native plant growth, now cut back and cultivated to reveal more of the old facade. How odd though that some of those graves seem freshly dug. Also why is there a giant bonfire located near the gravesite? Hm. Yes well, moving on. The West end of the grounds also feature some ruins from the old castle which have been left intact for posterity but removed from the castle proper due to their crumbling nature and state of disrepair. And with the grounds wrapped up, let's head on inside for the rest of the tour!

We enter on the ground floor into the lovely foyer which features many of the estates modernized furniture while also highlighting the eras that have come before. Particularly the nineteen twenties which saw quite a bit of activity for the Castle! With lovely art deco revival pieces and stately vintage furniture to highlight updated facades and restored architecture, this foyer feels grand and welcoming. The water feature in particular is quite lovely and an amazing statement piece! Huh, that vase...is that really an urn? Hm. I'm sure I must just be mistaking it for a funeral urn, that's all. Shall we move on?

Heading into the hallway on the right we've entered into a stately passageway that features some lovely modern art pieces as well as a bit of industrial storage while still providing access to the safety measures included in the castle to protect the owner's vast investment into this home.

Heading into the door on the right and we've entered into the ground floor office space. This cozy den has plenty of charm and really highlights the use of industrial, art deco, and luxury inspired pieces to create a cohesive and good-looking environment. The office's private bathroom also features lovely tile work that manages to avoid feeling cramped thanks to the vaulted ceilings and large mirror. Just around the corner from the couch is the first set of stairs on the east end of the castle, which will eventually become the east tower. Ah and I see we've included a few antique taxidermy pieces. What a...lovely vulture skull. Oh and a preserved cow-plant! How...unsettling beautiful. Erm, let's just head on out shall we?

We'll head next into the door at the end of the hall which leads us into the ground-floor laundry which has access to both the exterior grounds as well as the pool deck and patio space! The laundry itself is serviceable and feels charming with much of the original stonework and infrastructure remaining intact. And with this room we'll go ahead and take a break before returning to our impressive tour!

[evolutionsvoid]

When environments go bad, people typically think that the wildlife vanishes completely. If a pond gets polluted, or a bunch of the vegetation in a forest dies, then surely nothing is going to stick around! Indeed, it is true that upsets in ecosystems can cause numerous species to vanish from them. It is certainly a sign, and a bad one at that. Like amphibians disappearing from your local lake or marsh. When the frogs stop singing, something ain't right. However, there are also instances where new life entering the picture can be an equally bad sign. "But Chlora!" some of you may say "Isn't having new species come into an ecosystem a good thing? Isn't more life better?" To that I say: have you been reading these? Because if you are thinking that adding species to a habitat is always a plus, then I am about to launch an entire tome's worth of invasive species issues right into your face. Some creatures are simply not meant to be in places, be it lack of predators, lack of usual food source or other environmental factors. Some may be invasive, while others are simply in an area where they shouldn't be! Like, if you had a pond and suddenly saltwater fish started living in it. You would be like "hey, isn't this a fresh water body?" Well apparently not anymore!  An extreme example, yes, but I am trying to convey something here. Not sure if I am doing a great job at it. Here's another example, using the star of this entry: the Doratabo!

Before we can get into it proper, we need to know what a Doratabo is. The Doratabo is a species of fish, though not exactly in the fish form you expect. They have a long body, a large head and, most noticeably, a pair of limbs. Where one would expect fins, the Doratabo has a rather simple pair of forearms. Though there are digits at the ends of these arms, don't think that this fish is scaling cliffs or picking up swords. These arms are rather thin in comparison to the rest of their body, and even their clawed fingers aren't that sharp or tough. The most these limbs do is dig through the mud or help drag themselves along the ground. This brings me to the next noticeable feature of this species, and its the fact that you often see them out of the water! While they are indeed fish, the Doratabo has a wet hide that allows it to absorb air, like an amphibian would! Even their throats have this lining that lets them swallow air and breath without using their gills! This is good for them, because it means they can spend time outside of a particular water body and not worry about suffocating. It also lets them traverse the shores or move to better pools instead of being trapped in one place! They use this air breathing so much, that they are commonly found on mudflats, river shores and places where the waters have receded. Though they don't need water to breath, they do need moisture for their skin to take in air, so they are still reliant on places that have plenty of water or dampness. Mud is their favorite, so much so that locals would say that they are born from it. Make a mud puddle on your property, and Doratabo will magically pop out of it! But more on that later!

The muddy shores and flats are where they like to hang out, and it is also where they hunt. Their big mouths are used for swallowing up insects, crabs, snails and smaller fish. They typically look for food that is struggling in the thick mud, giving them opportunity to slither towards them and gobble them up! Though they are large, there are plenty of other creatures that would happily dine on them! To avoid predation, Doratabo hide themselves in the mud, using their earthy coloration and wrinkled hide to blend in with the environment. To add to the look, they coat themselves in the wet mud. This has the double bonus of wetting their skin for breathing and building up their camouflage! Once they are covered, they look like they are one with their surroundings, vanishing into the soggy earth whenever predators come around. Even if a beast were to locate them and attack, they will find their claws and teeth slipping off the slick hide, making it difficult to grab hold of the wriggling fish! And if things get really dire, they will lash out with their clawed fingers or try to smother their attacker in the thick mud. The latter tactic has them using their bulk to knock foes over into the muck, then push them further in until they give up or suffocate. 

To the people who live in the regions the Doratabo dwells, it isn't a huge threat to them. These fish prefer to be left alone and if threatened, they usually just burrow into the mud and hide, so attacks are rare. They aren't hunted that much either, because their meat is considered quite gross. Folks claim it is very muddy tasting and gritty, practically marinated in the muck they inhabit. Some people like it, but from the sounds of it it is a very acquired taste. So interactions between people and Doratabo are rather infrequent it would seem, until you hear the stories...

Despite their rather harmless nature and love for mud, it seems this fish has made it into quite a few tales. In fact, the people of the past labeled it as a spirit of vengeance. That seems a bit extreme, right? Well, here is where it gets interesting, and where my ramblings at the beginning finally make sense. The Doratabo was considered to be an entity that haunted forgotten rice fields, where vegetation had overgrown and mud had swallowed the crop. These muddy spirits would arise and torment the living with their howls and vile presence, until the owners of the land changed their ways and tended to their wasted fields. What on odd thing! Where on earth did they get that idea? Well I'll tell you!

I made mention before that Doratabo love mud and usually show up wherever it is in excess, right? Well, when rice fields get neglected and are left to the elements, the fields tend to get overgrown and muddy. Once this starts to happen, local Doratabo take notice, and they think these places would make lovely homes! So a few move in, trampling the vegetation and churning up the earth, making the field even more foul and mucky. As they do this, more Doratabo show up to take advantage of this new place, and eventually the whole field becomes a flat of mud and drowned rice plants. So if one neglects their rice fields, then these "men of mud" show up and start making it worse. This image is made possible through the large head and clawed arms of the Doratabo rising out of the mud, giving folks the impression of a humanoid clawing out of the muck. Their large colorful lump on their faces also makes people think of an eye, turning this angry spirit into an angry cyclops! But what of the howling? Well, when Doratabo gather in large numbers, things get heated during the mating season. Males will stand proud on the mud flats, with their colorful nose ornament on full display. They suck up air and then let it all out in long howl, which kind of sounds like a deep long burp. They make these noises to attract females and let other males know who is on top. If any challengers show up, it is some good old mud wrestling until one of them slinks off in defeat! While this is all about mating to them, folks mistake these calls for groans and moans of restless spirits. 

While in the past, they once believed these fish to be upset spirits angered by the neglected rice fields, people now recognize them as both a simple species and an important environmental cue. When water levels change, and vegetation starts choking out a water body, the Doratabo will show up for the mud and their presence will speed up the process. The waterways will grow murky and stifled, and local vegetation will get trampled until the whole area is just a muddy field. Not the end of the world, but not good for species that used to live in these pristine waters! So now people know to keep an eye out for Doratabo moving into water bodies they aren't usually in, as it is a sign that something is wrong with the environment. So it turns out that they aren't restless spirits, but they do appear to be a modern day omen!

Chlora Myron

Dryad Natural Historian

------------------------------------------------------

"Doratabo"

The season calls for some spirits or yokai! Could always stand to have a couple of those! Now lets shove it into a fish!

[pandorafallz]

Ashes in her Wake | C17

Alma spent the first three days alone at the cave which was oddly pleasant despite the near loneliness. She went foraging a few times and also allowed herself to practise following scents and trying to move silently through the grass to train her body. Less about hunting wildlife when she saw an opportunity to try and sneak up on an arrow dear, but more for the lesson of doing so. Veyhip’s lessons echoed in her mind often, allowing herself to readjust to reinforce her body to develop muscle memory. Something that would take a few months to instil so everyday practice was on the plan.

After the second day, she had felt recovered enough to pick up her bow and to restart drawing it back to get into proper form. Still just as hard as before and it made her muscles burn again but she took time to stretch properly and bathe in her cold pond again. Her third day comprised of using the bow, again, tracking and then using dried sticks to create a few baskets, one large one and one shallow one. She stuck most of her new supplies into the new basket and took it easy in processing her basts for their fibre then used one of her bones to create a large canteen.

On the fourth morning, Alma sat outside the front of her cave, whittling her collection of Archer’s Thicket to put to use for arrow shafts. She had yet to make her arrowheads and she also planned to make a new spear; the one from the Resistance, as she looked at it carefully, looked too different. She needed it to look homemade… or Na’vi at the very least.

So that was on her to-do list. On top of venturing out to the north of the Heartlands for better quality of branches, finding something to help preserve meat, finding the Tree of Echoes and connecting to Eywa, foraging for more supplies, processing those over the coming weeks, try and success in an independent kill and process that… and hopefully find means of learning how to navigate the usage of hide. Eventually, she’d move on out of the Heartlands.

Still, no rush.

Even if the list went longer, she had the time.

Idly humming again, Alma set down the shaft and reached for the bones to start the heads but movement pulled her attention to see movement again up in the distance. The two Zeswa older teens from Shaded Pool. A girl and a boy, clearly trying to egg each other on in…whatever mischief they were thinking of that somehow related to her.

Alma watched them mostly in the corner of her eye, a little amused but mostly curious to see it play out. Soon enough, they were close enough that she could soon hear what they were saying.

“<…if you do not have the confidence to talk to a Dreamwalker, then you do not have the confidence to talk to your crush.>” the male teen hissed to the girl.

The girl literally hissed back. “<I know what to expect with my light of life. Mother said Dreamwalkers are tricksters.>”

Alma sighed deeply, letting it travel before she set her project down to properly turn her attention to them.

“<I will not harm you if that is your concern.>” She called out to them, earning a squeak from the boy. “<Has your mother actually met a Dreamwalker to make such an assumption?”

The girl froze a little, the boy also hesitated but clearly lived for drama and shoved the girl towards her, breaking the girl’s pause and she glowered at her friend and hastily stepped back.

“<Would you like some tea?>” Alma offered, seeing the opportunity to earn some favour with the kids at the very least. “<Harpoon Berry and with savoury leaves from the Clouded Forest are a wonderful mix.>”

The girl looked intrigued enough to step forward and slowly up to her perch. “<We cannot stay too long.>”

“<Okay.>” Alma nodded once, “<It’ll take a moment to prepare.>” She kept an ear out, retreating into the cave to her fire which was embers so she brought that into life and added water into the pot and set that to heat up.

She didn’t break into the special tea often but she had to make a good impression here. Kame’tire tea was often very strong and bitter but provided well, but often then this particular tea was made to be served with something sweet to counteract the bitterness. Alma had found boiling the tea leaves and then adding in the berries seemed to work better than just downing the tea and then the berries.

The two behind continued to talk, their whispers were loud, but when was the Zeswa known for being both quiet and subtle? Still, she let them have their privacy as she pulled the freshly boiled water, a handful of the berries in each of her cups, and the canteen of tea leaves and returned to them.

She didn’t make it inside, but let them watch her prepare by tipping the water onto the berries and then adding the leaf to each one.

“<They will need time to seep, three minutes.>” Alma directed, “<You can remove the berries or keep them in but the leaf will have to be removed before it gets too strong. They are bitter.>”

She handed them one each, glad to see them accept, despite clear scepticism and their clear sniffs.

“<Are you a Kame’tire Dreamwalker?>” The girl asked rather bluntly, looking mostly at her waistcloth.

“<I’m not part of their clan, but I am allied with them.>” Alma said honestly, suspecting that this was a minor interrogation or simply sating their curiosity. “<I was allowed to wear the clothes they gave me for my travels to protect me from getting captured by the sky people>”

“<Why?>”

“<Why what?>”

The boy’s head tilted. “<Why would the sky people try to take you?>”

“<Because they believe I hold valuable information of the clans that will be useful to their conquests against the Na’vi. I’ve worked with most clans in the area, Aranahe, Kame’tire and Zeswa. If I look like a Dreamwalker out in the open…” She didn’t need to paint the picture too much; the kids were smart.

“<So you hide to protect us.>” The girl’s head tilted, “<What is your name? Why are you not with any of the clans? They can protect you, can they not?>”

Alma gently stirred her tea with a whittled, clean stirrer, prodding at a berry and watched some of the pink seeps out into the tea. “I’m Ulma and I do not have a place with them but… I am not ready to share the why. It is a deeply personal matter.>” She stated, “<What are your names?>”

“<I am Hìsro,>” The boy introduced, “<this is my cousin, Smura.>”

“<How long are you going to stay here?>” The girl, Smura asked, her eyes a little hard at Hìsro. “<Mother isn’t pleased you’re still here.>”

Ah, so that’s why the girl wasn’t certain about being there.

“<I don’t know and I’m not leaving due to someone not liking the fact I am here based on what I am>” Alma gave the girl a soft look before she peered into the cups and offered them her stirrer to pull the leaves out the team. “<I am not causing harm nor making a fuss so why should she care?>”

She took a delicate sip first to test the temperature but it was slightly too hot to swallow so she set the cup to cool.

The two cousins looked conflicted, Hìsro looked more confused than anything. “<You said you don’t have a sky person form to return to, is that true?>”

Alma winced at the bluntness of his words, her hand came to her healed burns, the skin still tight but on the last few days of its processes. No more pain, which was nice now.

“<Yes.>” She sucked in a shallow breath. “<I got… hurt and to save me, the only option they had in time was to have Eywa transfer my spirit into this body before my sky person form died.>” She didn’t… open up to much further than that. They didn’t need to know she had been stabbed by Na’vi…or by a Sarentu.

“<You experienced Eywa so intimately? She guided you into this body?” Smura looked more fascinated in her now. “<Oh, to feel that by the Great Mother’s own hands…What was it like?>”

“<Is it like connecting to Eywa through our sites? Do you feel so much closer to her now that she gave you such attention?>”

Alma stared at the two eager faces, trying to process the two’s questions and statements. In hindsight, she should have realised the weight of her words; two teenagers who have only experienced Eywa through their spiritual blooms and through their cultural rites was one thing… what she had been through was drastically different and more direct in comparison to their experiences.

“<I… I am not ready to speak of my death and return. Perhaps after I visit Eywa but I don’t know where to find the Tree of Echoes.>” She took a careful sip again, tolerating its heat before her pallet was tinged with the pleasing bittersweetness.

The two exchanged a look before they took a careful sip of their tea. Smura’s ears rose, looking a little startled while Hìsro face did all sorts of expressions before he set the cup down with…polite disinterest. Smura though sipped again carefully.

“<I’m not sure how this…tastes.>” She blinked down into the cup.

“<It’s an acquired taste but it’s commonly shared out as a communal drink but many alter it to personal preference. Some use crystal sugars or nectar to sweeten it, others use berries to bring out the flavour>” Alma explained, “<It’s not a drink to have without something sweet. Balance. If it’s too bitter, then have more to sweeten it.>”

Smura considered her drink then she reached into her hip pouch and pulled out a handful of Paskalin and added them in and let them float on top before they sunk down.

Hìsro eyed his cousin for a moment. “<The Tree of Echoes is set northeast of the heartlands from our camp. Follow along the Ikran’s Path River and go to the first waterfall but at its halfway point, go right and should take you directly through the hills towards the Petrified Forest. The Tree of Echoes is housed in the largest and widest stone formation.>

“<Cousin?! We cannot tell outsiders of our scared areas.>” Smura hissed “<Our people would never allow her to get close.>”

“<The fact that Ulma knows about it means she was already informed by one of our people.>” The teen looked a little tired, “<What do you think she’s going to do there aside from connecting to Eywa?>”

“<I’d be a fool to do harm in such a place.>” Alma added in, “<I know much importance it holds and I do simply wish to connect to Eywa.>”

Smura didn’t look happy still.

“<We can take her ourselves but our parents must not know. We can harvest some of the Patient Elder fibre that grows on its outside.>” Hìsro said to her, “<Everyone who had been touched by Eywa should have the right to commune with her. Eywa wouldn’t have saved her if she thought otherwise.>”

Smura sipped her tea with an indignant click. “<Not today.>” She said tightly. “<Let me think about it.>”

Alma relaxed but didn’t push it. “<Thank you, but… I was wondering if you know any good places that are rich in salt. I need more for marinating meat and supplies. I ran out last week.>”

“<Oh, our northern camp, Welcome Haven has an area set up beside the Rumbling River that we pull salt from. You’ll have to assist to make for what you will take and bring your own bag. Just follow the river north until you reach the Stone Rapids, water is shallow so your mount can transverse the way.>” Hìsro replied.

“<Will they care for what I am…or what clothes I wear?>”

“<Tsu’miro leads that camp sees many different people and clans. He judges people on their work rather than their…origins. He has to when working with the outcasted clans>”

Alma’s head tilted her eyebrows puling in. “<outcasted clans? Like the Kame’tire.>”

“<Yes, but he works mostly with the Meitayo Clan who live on an island in the ocean. They used to have a settlement on the edge of the heartlands before the Zeswa as a whole clan drove them away in a great war.> Hìsro face pulled in.

“<Can… Can I ask what happened?>” Alma couldn’t help the spike in curiosity. Sure, the Kame’tire was in a lot of heat but they were out of the pan and soon the clans would spread the news of their innocence that just didn’t reach this far yet but another clan being shamed?

“<They murdered Zakru needlessly>” Smura’s face turned to disgust. “<A mother and newborn baby.>”

“<Zeswa were victorious in the following eighteen months of the war,” Hìsro explained. “<It had been nearly eighty years since then but they suffered significant losses and often only come to the mainland for supplies or to find mates…not that the Zeswa will go stoop to such a level to mate with a Meitayo>”

Clearly, there was a whole story there but it felt... familiar. An outcasted clan… and she too was an outcast from the Resistance. Maybe she should visit? See if they would accept her. After her trip to the Kame’tire clan in the Spires.

“<I see. Where in the ocean are they? Is it a short trip or does it require an Ikran?>”

“<Ikran, most likely but I don’t know where their island is. We do not care for their clan to know where they reside, only that we make as little contact with them as possible.>” Smura finished and set her cup down. “<Thank you for the tea. We must be leaving now>”

Alma nodded. “<Okay. Hopefully, I’ll see you around.>”

“<If our mothers asks, please inform her we’re collecting basts… which we’re doing now>” Hìsro said, not to tell her to lie but she could see they didn’t want to let their parents know and she knew they’d do what they were telling her to not force her to lie either.

“<Okay>”

The two left and Alma finished her tea and the discarded tea to not waste it before she cleared up and set her the bones she planned to use aside to turn into arrowheads later and eyed up her options for a bag for salt. She had the old one but it was small and… well she needed to have enough to be useful for a lot of marinade to keep her meats from spoiling.

Alma dug out the old bag, pulling out the few bits of fibre she hadn’t really processed and tucked it into her waist cloth, found her canteen which was another option so she quickly used the threads from the bast fibres she had made to make it useful and secured it to her hip bag.

There was little time to waste really and she had the rest of the day ahead of her.

Leyapay took some prodding to get onto her back but soon enough, Alma set off from her cave and along the safe side of the river and followed along it.

She passed the unwelcoming camp but she paid them no mind as she went though it did cross her mind to wave as she went but thought better of it, even if the guard wouldn’t do anything. Indifference was probably her best option with them.

Alma followed the river as instructed over the thirty minutes of fast trotting on her mount’s part, and the teen’s words were true that the water was shallow enough that she didn’t need to worry as she soon rode Leyapay under the stone bridges and across the rivers and streams towards the island with the kites on.

She didn’t need to climb as she saw a small tented area on the large bank beside the populated island, the air tainted with salt.

A low horn sound echoed before a Na’vi poked their head out from… a hole in the ground. Another few faces appeared from above, peering down at her before Leyapay slowed at her mental command.

“<Are you lost, Wanderer?>” An eldered male called from above, his hair a typical Zeswa and his clothes looked smart and adorned with face paint

“<No, I was told this was a place to find salt. I’ve got a camp further south for the time being but I’m trying to build up reserves of supplies for when I continue on.>” Alma called.

The man eyed her for a second before he, with surprising agility and dexterity, climbed down the cliff wall and approached them. His hand came to Leyapay’s snout, allowing the Pa’li to lick his hand before he stroked her maw.

“<A young Clouded Forest mare. You have travelled far.>” From his hip pouch, he pulled something small and held it out to Leyapay who immediately ate it, through the bond, it was a sharp but sweet-tasting flavour but a salty undertone, a nectar-based treat if Alma had to guess. Leyapay sniffed more towards the pouch for more but Alma mentally pulled her back from that.

“<Are you Tsu’miro?>”

“<I am, and you, Wanderer?”

“<Ulma. I’m happy to help work with the supplies.>”

Tsu’miro moved back, his yellow eyes taking her in for a moment, her humble appearance, her bareback on her mount and nearly not experienced for a lot. He waved the curious faces above away with a single gesture.

“<Is it just salt you’re after?>” He gestured her down so she took her spear off and slipped from her mount’s back.

“<For now, I’ve been told the area had good quality branches for bows that I’m interested in but I don’t plan to up and leave for another couple of weeks.>”

“<We nurture salt in these caves. It is not an easy process and our home has overseen its care for generations. You could simply boil the water from the ocean rather than come to us and continue the process to get as much as your hearts despite>”

That sounded like a test. “<It crossed my mind but I’m… inexperienced. I’d rather do it the right way than simply the convenient way. I figured you may also teach me in this process so I do not cause harm in the future if I require more.>”

“<Is that your hope?>”

“<What else can I do but learn? My future is not the Heartlands.>” Alma fired back softly.

The man actually chuckled a little. “<Follow.>”

He led the way from the bank and into the camp set up and downwards to the hole in the ground. Despite the ocean near level and the river, it was a dry cave and had a surprisingly lower amount of plants in its tunnels than a typical cave. Its walls were a mixture of white grains and greenish tinges.

Inside, he first showed her a set up of tools, clearly designed to break or move large qualities of salt but she could see the form of the salt was more like rock salt; large chunks.

The next, he led further in where she saw a large open chamber, light cracking in high above into the large pools where a few Na’vi were busy raking through hand-made pools that were each heated by campfires with large rakes but also moving and rolling large… structures through the pool. Above, stalactites hung down and seemed to drop nearly constantly and some looked to have been trimmed recently.

“<The ocean water filters through the rocky surface. We nurture the salt, form it over time to be shaped and when it is solid enough, we can remove it. We trade with our fellow camps in return but this is a craft we have perfected.>” He said, “<You can learn, and we’d respect your efforts. But others simply just desire the items and be on their way. You can still take the salt.>”

Alma considers his offer. He was being cautious about what she wanted. Honestly, she knew long-term it was better to learn this and it was genuinely fascinating, but she did…like the idea of just getting the salt and going home to her cave and continuing on with her day.

“<How long will the learning take?>” She asked.

“<The lessons will take three weeks, but for your work to show for it, many months.>”

Alma pursed her lips, considering the pools for a long moment. “<I do not wish to be here for months.>”

“<No matter, your weeks of learning are creating a nursery for a salt formation to develop. Not only the process of making salt into rock formations but also its smaller variants and how to locate areas of salt pockets or water sources.>” Tsu’miro stated, “<You will not be needed for every day, but every other day you may come down to learn.>”

Her head turned from the pool. “<I have much to do at my own camp but I can do that.>” It sounded like a good deal after all. Plus… talking to people, Leyapay was good but she was still just a Direhorse and not strong in the conversation department.

Who knows, this could progress into learning a lot more than just salt and shit.

“<Let’s return to the camp outside and get proper introductions done. You will need tools and you must craft them yourself.>”

Alma stepped and allowed him to pass and followed him back the way they came.

Masterlist

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Benefits of Professional Fountain and Pond Maintenance

Maintaining a fountain or pond on your property is more than just keeping it looking beautiful—it's about ensuring that it continues to function properly and safely. Professional maintenance services, like the ones offered by First State Ponds & Fountains in Delaware, play a vital role in preserving the aesthetic value and longevity of these water features. Whether it’s a small garden pond or an elaborate outdoor fountain, regular maintenance is crucial for both appearance and performance.

Why Is Professional Maintenance So Important?

Extended Lifespan of Your Water Features Regular maintenance helps prevent the build-up of dirt, debris, algae, and minerals in your pond or fountain. Over time, without proper care, these elements can cause blockages, corrosion, and wear-and-tear on the equipment, which ultimately shortens the life of your feature. Professional maintenance ensures that everything—from pumps to filtration systems—is cleaned and serviced, extending the lifespan of your pond or fountain.

Improved Water Quality One of the most noticeable benefits of professional pond and fountain maintenance is the improvement in water quality. Stagnant, dirty water is not only unsightly but can also become a breeding ground for harmful bacteria. Regular cleaning and filtration checks by experts like First State Ponds & Fountains ensure the water stays clear, healthy, and safe for fish and plant life, reducing the chances of disease or contamination.

Aesthetically Pleasing Environment A well-maintained fountain or pond is an attractive addition to your property. Professional service providers like First State Ponds & Fountains ensure that your water feature continues to shine as the focal point of your outdoor space. They keep the water sparkling clean, check the pumps and lighting, and ensure that everything is functioning optimally. The last thing you want is for your beautiful fountain or pond to turn into an eyesore due to poor maintenance.

Energy Efficiency Did you know that keeping your pond or fountain in tip-top shape can also help reduce energy costs? When equipment like pumps or filters aren’t cleaned or maintained, they can become inefficient, forcing your system to work harder and consume more energy. Regular servicing ensures that these systems run as efficiently as possible, saving you money on energy bills over time.

Preventing Expensive Repairs Preventative maintenance is a smart way to avoid costly repairs. By catching small issues early, you can address them before they turn into larger, more expensive problems. Whether it's a cracked pump, clogged filter, or malfunctioning lighting system, catching these issues early can prevent you from having to replace expensive equipment or make major repairs.

Safety for Pets and Wildlife If you have pets or local wildlife that visit your pond or fountain, maintenance is especially important for their safety. Ensuring that there are no sharp objects, hazardous chemicals, or malfunctioning systems will keep both your animals and the surrounding environment safe. Regular checks can help detect any potential hazards, such as a faulty pump that might create unsafe water conditions.

Why Choose First State Ponds & Fountains for Your Maintenance Needs?

When it comes to pond and fountain care in Delaware, First State Ponds & Fountains is the name to trust. Here’s why:

Expert Knowledge: The team at First State Ponds & Fountains has years of experience in maintaining and servicing all types of water features. Their deep understanding of various pond systems, fountains, pumps, and filtration equipment means they can provide the best solutions for any issues that arise.

Comprehensive Service Packages: Whether you need a one-time cleaning or a regular maintenance schedule, First State Ponds & Fountains offers flexible service packages that fit your needs. From seasonal cleanups to full system checks, they handle it all.

Attention to Detail: With First State Ponds & Fountains, every aspect of your water feature gets the attention it deserves. Their services include cleaning, testing water quality, checking pumps and filters, inspecting lighting systems, and more.

Customer Satisfaction: At First State Ponds & Fountains, customer satisfaction is their priority. They take pride in offering top-notch service and ensuring that your pond or fountain remains a beautiful, functional part of your outdoor space.

Conclusion

Investing in professional pond and fountain maintenance not only ensures the beauty of your outdoor space but also provides peace of mind knowing your water features are functioning optimally. If you're looking for reliable and expert care for your fountain or pond, look no further than First State Ponds & Fountains in Delaware. Their experienced team will keep your water feature in top shape, ensuring its beauty and functionality for years to come!

[hortitechnogreenhouses]

Dam Liners in Kenya: Ensuring Water Conservation and Agricultural Success

Water is an essential resource for agriculture, industry, and domestic use in Kenya. With recurring droughts and the increasing demand for sustainable water management, dam liners have emerged as a reliable solution to minimize water loss and ensure consistent water availability. In this blog, we explore the importance of dam liners in Kenya, their applications, and how to choose the best one for your needs.

What Are Dam Liners?

Dam liners are impermeable sheets made from high-quality materials like polyethylene (PE), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), or geomembrane. They are designed to prevent water seepage in dams, ponds, and reservoirs, ensuring water is conserved for various uses. By providing a watertight seal, dam liners reduce water loss, making them a crucial component of efficient water storage systems.

Applications of Dam Liners in Kenya

Agriculture

Irrigation: Dam liners ensure that water stored in reservoirs does not seep into the ground, making it readily available for irrigation.

Aquaculture: Liners create a controlled environment for fish farming, preventing contamination and maintaining water levels.

Industrial Use

Industries that require water for processes can use dam liners to store large quantities of water without wastage.

Domestic Use

Communities and households can store rainwater or other water sources in lined reservoirs, ensuring consistent water supply during dry seasons.

Wildlife and Environmental Conservation

Dam liners help maintain water levels in wildlife watering holes, supporting biodiversity in arid and semi-arid regions.

Benefits of Using Dam Liners

Water Conservation: Minimizes water seepage, ensuring maximum storage.

Durability: High-quality liners are designed to withstand harsh environmental conditions.

Cost-Effective: Reduces the long-term costs associated with water loss and maintenance.

Environmental Protection: Prevents soil erosion and contamination by creating a barrier between water and the ground.

Types of Dam Liners

High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE):

Durable and UV-resistant, ideal for large-scale applications.

Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE):

Flexible and lightweight, suitable for small to medium reservoirs.

PVC Liners:

Cost-effective and easy to install, perfect for moderate-use cases.

Geomembrane Liners:

Premium option with high chemical resistance, used in industrial and large-scale agricultural settings.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Dam Liner

Size and Capacity: Ensure the liner matches the dimensions of your reservoir.

Material Quality: Opt for UV-resistant and durable materials for longevity.

Installation Expertise: Engage professionals for proper installation to avoid leaks.

Budget: While high-quality liners may have a higher upfront cost, they offer better long-term savings.

Trusted Suppliers of Dam Liners in Kenya

Numerous suppliers in Kenya offer high-quality dam liners. Ensure you work with reputable companies that provide warranties, installation support, and after-sales services.

Conclusion

Investing in dam liners is a practical and sustainable solution for water management in Kenya. Whether you’re a farmer, an industrialist, or a conservationist, dam liners can help you conserve water, reduce costs, and support environmental sustainability. By choosing the right liner and ensuring proper installation, you can maximize the benefits of this technology and secure a reliable water supply for years to come.

For more information on dam liners or to find a supplier in Kenya, feel free to reach out to us or comment below with your queries.

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Use a Combo Pond Pack Decorative Ponds to Improve Your Garden

A beautiful garden or backyard is an oasis for relaxation and enjoyment, and one way to elevate your outdoor space is by adding water features. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting to explore the world of outdoor decor, incorporating a pond into your landscape can completely transform your space. One of the best ways to get started is by investing in a combo pond pack decorative ponds. These all-in-one solutions make it easy to create a stunning water feature while adding a touch of serenity and beauty to your garden. Here’s why these decorative home pond products are a must-have for any outdoor enthusiast.

What Is a Combo Pond Pack?

A combo pond pack decorative pond is an all-inclusive set that provides everything you need to install a pond in your backyard or garden. These packs typically include a pond liner, a filtration system, and sometimes additional decorative elements, such as rocks or water pumps, designed to bring your pond to life. The benefit of a combo pack is that it removes the hassle of purchasing individual components. Everything you need comes together, making it easier to create a visually appealing and functional pond.

The Benefits of Decorative Home Pond Products

1. Simplicity and Convenience

When it comes to installing a pond, the process can feel overwhelming. However, with decorative home pond products, you can skip the confusion of gathering all the necessary materials. A combo pond pack takes the guesswork out of the equation. You don’t have to spend time searching for each component, and you can rest assured that all the pieces will work together seamlessly. This makes it an ideal choice for those who want a quick and efficient way to add a water feature to their garden.

2. Enhanced Aesthetic Appeal

Ponds have long been admired for their ability to bring tranquility and beauty to a landscape. A well-designed pond can serve as a focal point in your garden, attracting attention while also providing a peaceful environment for relaxation. The combo pond pack decorative ponds are designed not only to be functional but also to add visual appeal. With the right combination of water features, rocks, and plants, you can create a stunning focal point in your outdoor space.

3. Low Maintenance

Maintaining a pond can seem like a daunting task, but with the right products, it becomes much easier. Many decorative home pond products come with built-in filtration systems that keep the water clear and clean, reducing the amount of time you need to spend on maintenance. With proper care, your pond will thrive with minimal effort, leaving you more time to enjoy its beauty.

4. Eco-Friendly Benefits

Adding a pond to your garden can have environmental benefits. By incorporating water features, you can attract wildlife such as birds, frogs, and beneficial insects. These creatures not only enhance the biodiversity of your garden but also play a role in maintaining a healthy ecosystem. The combo pond pack decorative ponds are designed to work in harmony with nature, allowing you to enjoy a peaceful, eco-friendly space right in your backyard.

How to Choose the Right Combo Pond Pack

When shopping for a combo pond pack decorative pond, there are a few factors to consider to ensure you get the best fit for your space:

Size and Space Requirements: Consider the available space in your garden or backyard. Combo pond packs come in various sizes, so it’s important to select one that matches the scale of your landscape.

Filtration System: A good filtration system is essential for maintaining water quality and clarity. Look for a combo pond pack with a reliable filtration system that will handle the volume of water in your pond.

Durability: The materials used in the combo pond pack should be durable and weather-resistant. Ensure that the pond liner and other components are built to last, even under harsh outdoor conditions.

Design Elements: Many decorative home pond products come with decorative rocks, water pumps, and other elements that enhance the overall look of the pond. Choose a pack that matches the aesthetic of your garden or backyard design.

Tips for Setting Up Your Pond

Once you've chosen the perfect combo pond pack decorative pond, it's time to set it up. Here are some tips to ensure a successful installation:

Prepare the Site: Before you begin, clear the area where you want to place the pond. Make sure the ground is level and free from debris. This will provide a stable base for the pond and prevent any issues during installation.

Install the Pond Liner: The pond liner is essential for holding the water in place and preventing leaks. Carefully lay the liner in the desired location, making sure it fits snugly.

Set Up the Filtration System: The filtration system is key to maintaining clear water. Follow the instructions in your combo pond pack to set it up properly. This may include positioning the filter and connecting it to the water pump.

Add Water and Decorative Elements: Once the pond structure is in place, fill it with water and add any decorative elements included in your pack. You can also add aquatic plants, rocks, or statues to personalize the look of your pond.

Final Thoughts

Adding a pond to your garden can create a serene and beautiful outdoor space. With a combo pond pack decorative pond, you can easily create a stunning water feature that enhances your landscape while also providing a peaceful retreat. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a beginner, these all-in-one solutions make the process simple, convenient, and rewarding. To explore a wide range of decorative home pond products and find the perfect combo pond pack for your garden, visit Ultraclear's Decorative Home Products.

[grangerdangerfics]

Salisbury, MD: Best Parks and Outdoor Activities for Families

Nestled on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, Salisbury offers families a rich blend of outdoor activities and scenic parks, making it an ideal spot for reconnecting with nature and each other. Whether you're looking for playgrounds, hiking trails, or unique wildlife experiences, Salisbury has something for everyone.

Salisbury City Park

Salisbury City Park is a family favorite, offering a little bit of everything. Kids can explore multiple playgrounds, while parents enjoy the serene walking trails that wind through the park’s picturesque landscape. Don’t miss the beautiful ponds, where ducks and geese add to the charm. The park is also home to a seasonal splash pad, a hit with younger children during warmer months.

Pemberton Historical Park

For families that love history and hiking, Pemberton Historical Park provides the perfect combination. Spread across 262 acres, the park offers more than four miles of walking trails that meander through forests, meadows, and wetlands. Along the way, interpretive signs highlight the region’s history and ecosystems. Pemberton also hosts family-friendly events like guided nature walks and historical reenactments.

Ward Museum of Wildfowl Art Outdoor Areas

While the Ward Museum is known for its exquisite collection of decoys and wildfowl art, the outdoor areas surrounding the museum are equally captivating. Stroll along the nature trail, which includes scenic views of Schumaker Pond, or enjoy a family picnic by the water. Kids will love spotting turtles and birds in their natural habitats.

Coco’s Funhouse and Nearby Green Spaces

For active play, Coco’s Funhouse combines indoor fun with nearby outdoor options. This play center features slides, climbing structures, and plenty of space to burn energy. Once the kids have had their fill indoors, venture to the nearby community parks for a relaxing wind-down.

Arthur W. Perdue Stadium

If your family enjoys sports, catching a Delmarva Shorebirds baseball game at Perdue Stadium is a must. The stadium’s kid-friendly atmosphere, including a designated play area, makes it more than just a ballgame – it’s an experience.

From the peaceful trails at Pemberton Park to the lively atmosphere of Perdue Stadium, Salisbury delivers a variety of outdoor adventures for families. With its blend of natural beauty and engaging activities, it’s no wonder Salisbury remains a go-to destination for outdoor family fun. Pack a picnic, lace up your walking shoes, and start exploring!

The Essential Role of an Arborist: Caring for Trees in Salisbury, MD

In Salisbury, MD, trees are an integral part of the community’s charm and environment. From the picturesque parks to tree-lined streets, these natural giants provide shade, beauty, and clean air. However, maintaining healthy and safe trees requires expertise, which is where an arborist steps in. Arborists are trained professionals dedicated to the care, maintenance, and management of trees, ensuring they thrive for years to come.

What Does an Arborist Do?

Arborists provide specialized services tailored to your trees’ needs. In Salisbury’s diverse climate, trees face challenges such as storms, pests, and diseases. Arborists are equipped to address these issues with precision and care, offering services like:

Tree Pruning: Proper pruning enhances a tree's health and structure. Arborists remove dead or diseased branches and shape trees for safety and aesthetics, ensuring they complement Salisbury’s natural beauty.

Tree Removal: When trees become hazardous due to disease or storm damage, arborists can safely remove them, protecting nearby structures and landscapes.

Planting and Consultation: Arborists in Salisbury help homeowners select tree species suited to the region’s soil and weather, ensuring long-term success and beauty in the landscape.

Emergency Tree Care: Salisbury’s occasional storms can leave trees damaged or uprooted. Arborists provide quick, professional response to mitigate risks and restore safety.

Why Hire a Certified Arborist in Salisbury, MD?

Tree care is complex and requires skill. Certified arborists undergo extensive training to ensure they understand the unique challenges posed by the Salisbury area’s environment. From knowing how to prevent common pests like gypsy moths to managing tree diseases that thrive in Maryland’s climate, arborists bring critical expertise.

By hiring a certified professional, you ensure that your trees receive care that protects their health and enhances their longevity. Arborists also have access to specialized tools and follow safety protocols, reducing the risks of property damage or injury. More info.

Environmental Benefits for Salisbury

Healthy trees contribute to Salisbury’s ecosystem by improving air quality, reducing stormwater runoff, and providing habitats for local wildlife. Arborists play a vital role in maintaining these benefits by promoting tree health and planting new trees suited to the region.

At Jr & Dubon Tree Service, we’re proud to serve the Salisbury, MD community with expert tree care. Whether you need pruning, removal, or emergency service, trust our team to protect and enhance your property’s natural beauty. Together, we can keep Salisbury green and thriving.

Check Their Recent Tree Service Work: https://maps.app.goo.gl/JbMendadn3o65p8k7

Jr & Dubon Tree Service 138 Coulbourn dr, Salisbury MD, 21804, United State 301–266–6664 https://jrdubontreeservices.com/

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Why Mine Tailings Dredges is Essential for Eco-Friendly Mining Practices?

Mine tailings dredges are essential for eco-friendly mining practices as they effectively manage and contain waste materials, preventing contamination of nearby ecosystems. By efficiently removing and storing tailings, these dredges help minimize environmental impact, reduce pollution, and ensure compliance with regulations. Additionally, they facilitate the recovery of valuable minerals, promoting sustainability and reducing the need for new mining operations, ultimately supporting greener, more responsible mining practices.

The Importance of Sustainable Mining with Mine Tailings Dredge

As the demand for minerals increases globally, the environmental impacts of mine tailings dredge have become a major concern. Traditional mining methods often leave behind significant environmental damage, especially in the form of mine tailings, which can lead to soil and water contamination. The introduction of eco-friendly practices in the mining industry has become critical, and mine tailings dredges are at the forefront of this change. These specialized dredging machines are essential tools in mitigating the environmental risks associated with mine tailings and contribute to more sustainable mining operations.

Understanding Mine Tailings and Their Environmental Impact

Mine tailings are the waste materials left after the extraction of valuable minerals from ore. These residues, often stored in large tailings ponds, can contain toxic substances such as heavy metals, chemicals, and other pollutants that can seep into nearby water sources. Over time, this contamination can affect ecosystems and local communities. Without proper management, mine tailings pose significant risks to the environment. A mine tailings dredge helps address this issue by efficiently removing and managing the waste materials, reducing the potential for environmental harm.

How does Mine Tailings Dredge contribute to waste contamination?

One of the primary functions of a mine tailings dredge is to safely extract and transport mine tailings from ponds or other containment areas. This dredging process is crucial for reducing the volume of stored waste, making it easier to manage and, in some cases, even reuse the materials. By removing tailings from open bodies of water, dredges prevent the spread of contaminants into surrounding ecosystems. In this way, mine tailings dredges act as an essential tool for containing and stabilizing waste, ultimately reducing the potential for hazardous runoff.

Reducing Water Contamination with Mine Tailings Dredge

Water contamination is one of the most significant environmental risks posed by mine tailings. The dredging process helps reduce this risk by removing tailings from water sources, preventing them from leaching harmful substances into rivers, lakes, or groundwater. Mine tailings dredges are equipped with advanced filtration systems that ensure any water used in the dredging process is treated before being returned to the environment. This reduces the contamination of local water supplies, protecting aquatic life and improving the overall quality of water in mining areas.

Mine Tailings Dredge: Enhancing the Reclamation of Mining Sites

A crucial aspect of sustainable mining is the reclamation of land and water resources once mining operations are complete. Mine tailings dredges play a vital role in this reclamation process by assisting in the removal of tailings and facilitating the restoration of affected sites. After tailings are removed, the dredged areas can be rehabilitated and repurposed for agriculture, wildlife conservation, or other beneficial uses. By supporting the restoration of mining sites, the use of mine tailings dredges ensures that mining operations have a lower long-term impact on the environment.

The Role of Mine Tailings Dredge in Sustainable Resource Recovery

Mine tailings are often seen as waste, but in many cases, they contain valuable minerals and metals that can be recovered. Modern mine tailings dredges are increasingly being used not only to manage waste but also to assist in the recovery of these residual resources. By efficiently dredging and processing mine tailings, miners can extract leftover minerals that would otherwise be discarded. This recovery process reduces the need for new mining, conserves natural resources, and minimizes the environmental footprint of the mining industry.

Economic Benefits of Mine Tailings Dredge in Eco-Friendly Mining

Beyond environmental benefits, using mine tailings dredges can also offer economic advantages to mining operations. By reducing the costs associated with waste disposal and improving the recovery of valuable minerals, these dredging machines can increase the profitability of mining projects. Furthermore, the adoption of eco-friendly practices can enhance a mining company's reputation, attracting investors and consumers who prioritize sustainability. The economic viability of sustainable mining practices is increasingly important, and mine tailings dredges contribute to the long-term financial success of eco-conscious mining operations.

Conclusion

The use of mine tailings dredges is an essential part of moving towards more eco-friendly mining practices. These advanced dredging machines play a crucial role in minimizing the environmental impact of mining by controlling waste, reducing water contamination, aiding in resource recovery, and supporting the reclamation of mining sites. As the mining industry continues to prioritize sustainability, the role of mine tailings dredges will only grow, contributing to a cleaner, greener future for the industry and the planet. The adoption of these technologies will help ensure that mining practices are both economically viable and environmentally responsible in the years to come.

[landscapingservice]

Transform Your Space with Premium Aquascape Services at Kingswood

Are you looking to enhance the beauty and tranquility of your outdoor space? At Kingswood Landscape, we specialize in aquascape solutions that can transform your property into a stunning oasis. Our premium aquascape aquarium designs and features will not only elevate your landscape but also provide a serene environment for you and your family to enjoy.

Why Choose Aquascaping?

Aquascaping is more than just creating beautiful water features; it’s about crafting a harmonious ecosystem that enhances your overall landscape. Our expert team at Kingswood understands the intricate balance required to design stunning aquatic environments. Whether you're interested in a pond kit aquascape or a breathtaking water garden, we have the experience and creativity to make it happen.

Custom Aquascape Solutions

At Kingswood, we offer a range of customizable aquascape services tailored to your unique preferences. Our pond kits come with everything you need to create a beautiful water feature right in your backyard. From selecting the perfect location to ensuring proper filtration and maintenance, our team will guide you every step of the way.

We take pride in our meticulous attention to detail. Our stone masonry techniques add an element of elegance to your aquascape, blending seamlessly with the natural environment. Imagine the beauty of a waterfall cascading over carefully placed stones, creating a soothing sound that brings peace to your outdoor space.

Maintenance Made Easy

One of the benefits of choosing Kingswood for your aquascaping needs is our comprehensive commercial maintenance services. We understand that maintaining a pristine aquascape requires ongoing care and expertise. Our maintenance team is equipped to handle everything from routine cleaning to advanced water quality management, ensuring your aquatic environment remains beautiful and healthy year-round.

Landscaping Services Near Me

If you’re searching for landscaping services near me that can provide stunning aquascapes, look no further than Kingswood Landscape. Our team is dedicated to transforming your outdoor space into a tranquil retreat. We not only focus on the aesthetic appeal but also on creating a sustainable environment that attracts wildlife and promotes biodiversity.

The Perfect Addition to Your Landscape

Imagine stepping outside into your own personal paradise, where the gentle sounds of flowing water and the vibrant colors of aquatic plants create a serene atmosphere. Whether you have a small garden or a large estate, our aquascape services can be scaled to fit your needs. The addition of a well-designed aquascape can increase your property’s value and provide a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Get Started Today

If you're ready to transform your space with premium aquascape services, contact Kingswood Landscape today. Our team is eager to work with you to create a custom aquascape that fits your vision and enhances your property. With our expertise in aquascape aquariums, pond kits, and landscaping, we are committed to bringing your outdoor dreams to life.

Experience the tranquility and beauty of a professionally designed aquascape. Choose Kingswood Landscape for all your aquascaping and landscaping needs, and let us help you create the outdoor paradise you’ve always wanted.

[ecosyncrasy]

tales from the pet store part i ;

i've been working part time in a pet store for just over a month now and i already have enough stories that i could write a book about misguided people and animals. this wasn't even the story i was going to start this series with but i'm just so flabbergasted by what happened last night that i just HAD to kick it off with this one.

this is a tale in two parts because the week before we had a lady come into the store, and at first it was the typical pet parent stuff, talking about how much rescue she does already ( in response to us asking her if she'd like to make a donation to local shelters ). But she ends up taking it ONE step further. That she even rescues wild animals on her walks on the beach! Why just the other day she saw a baby turtle struggling towards the ocean..... and decided to help it....

by taking it to the POND behind the sand dunes because CLEARLY she could tell it was a baby snapping turtle that was going the wrong way....

fast forward to last night. i'm still not sure if it was the same lady or if it was a different one ( my boss thinks it was a different person ) but my boss, the OTHER person in line, and myself get into a fight with the other customer. a wildlife karen if you will.

because she 'rescued' a 'snapping turtle' and was wondering what sort of food to get it. she did not like that we were telling her to take it to the VERY local wildlife rehab center outside of town. that we couldn't help her because it is very illegal to own any turtles ( without the proper permits ) in my province. while i'm glad my boss is super supportive, she is a bit of a push over and let her buy a small thing of superworms just to get her out of the store because she was starting to get combative not just with us but with the other customer that was with us in this tiny pet store ( because she was really letting the idiot have it - bless that woman's soul - said all the things i wish i could have ).

but god, -- just leave wildlife alone. wildlife aren't just fancy pets. turtles are not an easy pet to keep. and if the animal really does need help then let the experts handle it! don't be an entitled wildlife karen.

[businesspikuk]

Garden Landscaping Ideas to Transform Your Outdoor Space

Garden landscaping is the art of arranging and modifying the features of your outdoor space to create an aesthetically pleasing environment. Whether you're looking to enhance the beauty of your backyard or create a functional garden area, landscaping can dramatically transform your space.

Essential Elements of Garden Landscaping

Planning and Design: Start with a detailed plan that outlines the layout, features, and plants you want in your garden. Consider the existing landscape and how you can integrate new elements seamlessly.

Hardscaping: This involves the use of non-plant elements like patios, pathways, decks, and pergolas. Hardscaping provides structure and defines different areas within your garden.

Plant Selection: Choose a variety of plants that complement each other in terms of color, texture, and size. Incorporate a mix of trees, shrubs, flowers, and ground covers for a balanced look.

Water Features: Adding a pond, fountain, or waterfall can enhance the tranquility of your garden. Water features attract wildlife and create a calming ambiance.

Lighting: Proper lighting extends the usability of your garden into the evening. Use a combination of ambient, task, and accent lighting to highlight key features and create a warm atmosphere.

Popular Garden Landscaping Styles

Formal Gardens: Characterized by symmetrical layouts, neatly trimmed hedges, and classic plantings. This style exudes elegance and order.

Cottage Gardens: Informal and charming, cottage gardens are filled with a variety of flowers, herbs, and vegetables. They have a whimsical and romantic feel.

Japanese Gardens: Focus on simplicity and natural beauty. Elements like rocks, water, and carefully pruned plants create a serene and meditative space.

Modern Gardens: Emphasize clean lines, minimalism, and the use of contemporary materials. Modern gardens often feature outdoor living spaces and sustainable plantings.

Tips for Successful Garden Landscaping

Start Small: If you're new to landscaping, start with a small project and gradually expand. This allows you to learn and make adjustments without feeling overwhelmed.

Consider Maintenance: Choose plants and materials that fit your maintenance preferences. Low-maintenance gardens are ideal for busy lifestyles.

Use Native Plants: Native plants are adapted to your local climate and soil, making them easier to care for and more sustainable.

Create Focal Points: Designate focal points like a striking tree, a sculpture, or a water feature to draw the eye and create visual interest.

Conclusion

Garden landscaping is a wonderful way to enhance your outdoor space and create a personalized retreat. With thoughtful planning and creativity, you can transform your garden into a beautiful and functional area that reflects your style and meets your needs. Start your landscaping journey today and watch your garden come to life!

[puravidalandsscapeus]

Landscape Design & Installation Mistakes to Avoid in Florida

Nothing can be better than landscaping when you wish to increase your Florida home's curb appeal and value. It’s like decorating your outdoors with beautiful trees, flowers, and elements. But, there are a few landscape design & installation mistakes that you should avoid to get the best results. Even if you are working with a landscape company in Florida, you should keep these in mind.

Not planning before planting.

When you start planting without planning, things take a wrong turn. You should sit with your landscape contractor in Florida and prepare a chart on how you want your garden to look. This planning is important for budgeting as well.

If you run out of money midway, your landscape will shatter in pieces, and the final look will not be as expected.

Landscaping for a season

Your landscaping plan should work year-round. Don’t plan to consider a particular season; this might be expensive.

If you are concerned about unpredictable weather changes, choose plants accordingly. For every plant that dies during the winter, find a plant that stays green. Use non-living pieces to enhance your landscape design and installation in Florida.

Clumping the colors

Landscaping is incomplete without colors. However, many homeowners don’t use colors properly. They limit the use of colors to one part of the design. Use colors everywhere with a proper balance.

Consider green as a neutral color in landscaping and add colors everywhere without hesitation.

Not taking into account irrigation needs.

Irrigation is an important aspect of landscaping. Many people think irrigation is about getting enough water to the plants, but it’s really about ensuring that water doesn’t destroy landscaping.

This is a major problem if you live in a low-lying area, as water sets in puddles, killing grass and other plants. You should look after your pools and ponds to prevent overflowing. In the summer season, water should be accessible to both large and small plants.

Not considering each plant’s needs.

Every plant has certain needs. You should consider these needs to make your landscaping design work.

Generally, larger plants need more water and space for proper growth. On the other hand, you should consider if smaller plants are getting enough sun based on their location in your garden. Simply said, make sure that the needs of each plant are met by their space in your design.

Forgetting about wildlife

There are different types of furry and feathered creatures in Florida that can create havoc on your landscaping if you don’t prevent them. Landscape design and installation in Florida without fruits and vegetables is not a great idea to keep the creatures away. They can also eat leaves.

You should plan with the help of your landscape contractor. You can have fences or other barriers. You can also use organic pesticides to keep critters away. Sometimes, wildlife, such as bees, is good for pollinating your flowers.

Pura Vida Landscape makes no landscaping mistakes.

When you work alone, there are always chances of making mistakes. But, when you shake hands with professionals like Pura Vida Landscape, you are safe. We are a well-known landscape company in Florida that can change the entire look of your landscape without making any mistakes.

[aquariumdechlorinator]

Optimizing Golf Course Ponds: Essential Treatments and Combo Packs

Introduction

Golf course ponds are more than just aesthetic features; they play a crucial role in the overall ecosystem and functionality of the course. Maintaining these water bodies requires specialized care and attention. Effective golf course ponds treatments ensure that the ponds remain clear, healthy, and visually appealing. One of the best solutions available today is the combo pack for golf course ponds. This article will explore the importance of maintaining golf course ponds and the benefits of using specialized treatment products.

The Importance of Golf Course Ponds

Environmental and Aesthetic Value

Golf course ponds serve multiple purposes. They provide irrigation water, enhance the landscape, and create habitats for wildlife. Proper maintenance of these ponds is essential to:

Enhance Course Aesthetics: Clear and well-maintained ponds add to the visual appeal of the golf course, providing a serene and attractive environment for golfers.

Support Irrigation: Healthy ponds ensure a reliable source of water for course irrigation, crucial for maintaining lush greens and fairways.

Promote Wildlife: Ponds can become habitats for various species, contributing to biodiversity on the golf course.

Common Challenges

Maintaining golf course ponds comes with its challenges. These include:

Algae Growth: Warm temperatures and nutrient-rich water can lead to excessive algae, which affects water clarity and quality.

Debris Accumulation: Leaves, grass clippings, and other organic matter can accumulate in the pond, leading to murky water and unpleasant odors.

Water Quality Issues: Imbalanced pH levels, high nutrient content, and other factors can degrade water quality, affecting both aesthetics and the health of aquatic life.

Effective Treatments for Golf Course Ponds

Algae Control

One of the primary concerns for golf course pond maintenance is algae control. Algae can quickly take over a pond, turning clear water into a green, murky mess. Effective golf course ponds treatments target algae at the source:

Algaecides: Chemical treatments that kill algae and prevent future growth. They are essential for maintaining clear water.

Beneficial Bacteria: These treatments introduce beneficial bacteria that consume nutrients in the water, starving algae and preventing their growth.

Debris Management

Accumulated debris can be managed through various treatments:

Debris Digesters: These products contain enzymes and bacteria that break down organic matter, reducing sludge and keeping the water clean.

Skimmers and Aerators: Mechanical solutions that help remove surface debris and increase oxygen levels in the water, promoting a healthier ecosystem.

The Combo Pack Solution

What is a Combo Pack for Golf Course Ponds?

A combo pack for golf course ponds offers a comprehensive solution by combining multiple treatments into one package. This approach simplifies pond maintenance by providing everything needed to address common issues.

Benefits of Using a Combo Pack

Comprehensive Care: Combo packs typically include algaecides, beneficial bacteria, and debris digesters, covering all aspects of pond maintenance.

Cost-Effective: Purchasing a combo pack can be more economical than buying individual treatments separately.

Ease of Use: Having all necessary treatments in one package simplifies the maintenance process, making it easier to keep ponds in optimal condition.

For more detailed information and to purchase the best combo packs, visit the UltraClear website.

Key Components of a Combo Pack

Algaecides: Essential for controlling and preventing algae growth.

Beneficial Bacteria: Helps maintain clear water by breaking down organic matter and reducing nutrient levels.

Debris Digesters: Breaks down accumulated debris, reducing sludge and improving water quality.

Conclusion

Maintaining the health and beauty of golf course ponds requires a strategic approach and the right products. Utilizing a combo pack for golf course ponds provides a comprehensive, cost-effective solution that simplifies pond care. By addressing algae control, debris management, and water quality issues, these treatments ensure that golf course ponds remain clear, healthy, and visually appealing.

For effective and easy-to-use golf course ponds treatments, explore the offerings on the UltraClear website. Investing in these products not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your golf course but also promotes a healthy, balanced ecosystem.

[riseupfromthepain]

Enhancing Your Pond: Steps to Adding a Waterfall

Adding a waterfall to an existing pond can transform it into a mesmerizing oasis in your backyard. The sight and sound of cascading water not only enhance the aesthetics but also contribute to the ecosystem of the pond. Whether you're looking to create a serene ambiance or attract wildlife, installing a waterfall is a fantastic option. In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to seamlessly integrate a waterfall into your pond.

Assessing Your Pond

Before embarking on the project, it's crucial to assess your pond's layout, size, and existing features. Take note of the dimensions, depth, and shape of the pond. Consider its surroundings, such as landscaping, plants, and any structures nearby. Assessing these factors will help determine the most suitable location and design for your waterfall.

Choosing the Right Design

When adding a waterfall to your pond, the design plays a pivotal role in achieving the desired aesthetic and functionality. There are various styles to consider, ranging from naturalistic cascades to formal spillways. Research different designs and envision how they would complement your pond's overall look.

Selecting Equipment and Materials

Next, gather the necessary equipment and materials for your waterfall project. This may include a pump, tubing, rocks or boulders, liner, and filtration system. Ensure that the equipment is suitable for the size and flow rate of your pond to achieve optimal performance.

Preparing the Site

Prepare the site for the waterfall by marking the location and excavating the area. Dig a shallow trench for the tubing and create a reservoir for the pump. Lay down the liner to prevent water leakage and provide a stable base for the rocks.

Building the Structure

Begin building the structure of the waterfall by arranging rocks and boulders in a naturalistic formation. Stack them securely, ensuring stability and proper water flow. Place the pump in the reservoir and connect it to the tubing, leading to the top of the waterfall.

Installing the Pump and Filtration System

Install the pump and filtration system according to the manufacturer's instructions. Position the pump in the reservoir, ensuring it's submerged and securely anchored. Connect the tubing to the pump and route it up to the top of the waterfall, where the water will cascade down.

Testing and Adjusting

Once the waterfall is assembled, test the system to ensure everything is functioning correctly. Check for leaks, adjust the flow rate, and fine-tune the positioning of the rocks to achieve the desired waterfall effect. Make any necessary adjustments to optimize the performance and aesthetics of the waterfall.

Adding a waterfall to an existing pond is a rewarding project that enhances the beauty and functionality of your outdoor space. By following these steps, you can create a stunning focal point that brings the soothing sight and sound of flowing water to your backyard oasis.

FAQs:

1. How much does it cost to add a waterfall to an existing pond?

The cost of adding a waterfall to an existing pond can vary depending on factors such as the size of the pond, the chosen design, and the quality of materials. On average, you can expect to invest anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars for the project.

2. Will a waterfall attract wildlife to my pond?

Yes, a waterfall can attract various forms of wildlife, including birds, frogs, and insects. The flowing water provides a source of hydration and habitat, making your pond more inviting to wildlife.

3. Do I need to hire a professional to install a waterfall?

While hiring a professional can ensure expert craftsmanship and seamless installation, adding a waterfall to an existing pond is a feasible DIY project for homeowners with basic construction skills. However, if you're unsure or prefer professional assistance, consulting with a landscape contractor or pond specialist is recommended.