Impressions and Relfections

My first impression of the Gambles Mill Trail does in fact reflect many aspects of life at Richmond and our greater role as both manipulators and protectors of our natural resources. The trail is a paved, 0.5 mile course that runs along the border of a golf course and leads to River Road. From about a quarter of the way down the trail, you can see the tall exhaust tower of the University power plant, the perfectly maintained patch of grass which is the University “community garden,” three varieties of compose piles, and a small stream. The further down the trail you travel, the less modern life seems to interfere with nature—fallen trees are left on the ground and become home to hundreds of flying green insects, while the sound of cars swerving around the bend in the road become less distinct. Even the smell of the air seems to be sharper and clearer compared to the warm, humidified air we are used to inhaling in our classrooms.

While it seems that manipulation of natural resources is necessary for our modern lifestyle and activities, exemplified by the meticulously maintained carpet of grass on which the golfers play, an area like the Gambles Mill Corridor does force me to acknowledge that this desire encroaches on natural space (even natural space which we try to preserve). That being said, with so many people of all ages learning the value of the beauty of nature especially through increased interest in outdoor activities like biking, running, and rock climbing, I hope that these spaces will begin to be valued anew.

One week later…

After going on a guided tour of the Gambles Mill Corridor I realized the full potential of that little, run-down path. Professor Lookingbill told our class about the Corridor possibly becoming a quick and easily accessible way for students to travel to Pony Pasture. Quite honestly this idea thrilled me. Even though I have access to a car, I often wish I could feel more connected to the natural parklands of Richmond. On a near 60 degree day like today, it would be incredible to simply walk a mile or so to reach the woods of Pony Pasture. However, even if this vision is never realized I, through this class, have discovered a new place to explore tiny streams, walk around in the mud, and enjoy a little bit of trail right here on campus.