This seating area is a common hangout spot for students looking to relax in a peaceful outdoor setting, at least when the weather allows it! Because of its central location, the Reed Canyon is more than just a habitat for native and endangered species, it’s a place for people too, to explore and enjoy nature. But before the restoration process began in 1999, the Canyon was dangerous, with uneven terrain and prickly blackberry thorns, and so people weren’t able to access it. Now that the Canyon is safe and thriving, everyone is free to walk through the trails and enjoy the stunning views. Recreation and relaxation are a few of the many benefits that people can receive from healthy ecosystems. Ecosystems provide goods to people called “ecosystem services,” from recreation to improved air and water quality. The healthier an ecosystem, the more species it can support. Access to natural areas are an important part of a this effort because they can be used as a learning tool to influence policy making and legislation, which then have real, positive impacts on wildlife and natural spaces. You can learn more about how this ecosystem has been used as a learning tool on the Canyon website.
Two similar shots of the Canyon, taken before and after restoration efforts. The left image (Spring 1997) shows the ground covered in invasive English Ivy and Himalayan Blackberry, and the right photo (Spring 2009) shows an understory restored with native foliage, leaving space for trails so people can enjoy the Canyon.
Works Cited:
- Bloomquist, L., Fenollosa, T., Gustafson, L., Lane, A., Lucas, K., Remington, C., Workin, R. (2009, December 18). Reed College Canyon. https://www.reed.edu/canyon/reso/docs/ 2010_ecosystem_services/index.html.
- Collins, Sally; Larry, Elizabeth. 2007. Caring for our natural assets: an ecosystem services perspective. Excerpt from PNW-GTR-733. Portland, OR: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Pacific Northwest Research Station.
- Cover photo: Unknown, "Historical_Canyon_Photos_106." Reed College Digital Archives. Photographed 1990s. https://rdc.reed.edu/i/8d67a16b-72ec-4668-af67-86c245d5ce8d