Nature – Guardians of the West Fork Watershed

What’s Under the Water?

A new book by USGS fisheries biologist, WVU professor, and West Virginia native Stuart Welsh with central Appalachian fish stories, Hornyheads, Madtoms, and Darters. “Most people are not scientists, but many have an interest in nature and are, in their own way, naturalists. This book is for those people willing to peer beneath the water’sContinue reading “What’s Under the Water?”

Plant Spotlight: Buttonbush

Have you noticed any round, white flowers blooming along the West Fork? In mid to late summer, buttonbush blooms distinct creamy white ball-shaped flowers. Even into late fall and winter, these seed balls can still be easily recognized. Buttonbush is a common shrub found in wet areas near streams and in wetlands. Numerous types ofContinue reading “Plant Spotlight: Buttonbush”

Riffles & Pools

Have you ever spent time along a river and noticed how most rivers change along their course? Oftentimes, rivers display alternating patterns of calm flatwater and turbulent faster moving water. This pattern is not by accident. Learning to read the river can help you navigate the channel while paddling, or help you know where toContinue reading “Riffles & Pools”

Speckles in the Night

In the midst of summer when dusk arrives and the coolness brings relief to the hot day-time temperatures, glowing speckles of light emerge out of the darkness. Known as fireflies, lightening bugs, or glowworms, these small critters are a favorite summer past time. Did you know there are different types of fireflies, each with theirContinue reading “Speckles in the Night”