The Ozark Chinquapin species was nearly wiped out by blight that started in the 1930s, depriving the Ozarks of a drought-resistant hardwood. Most chinquapins produce few seeds, and last Friday, six blight-resistant seeds donated to the Parks Dept. by Steve Chrychel of Hobbes State Park were planted at Lake Leatherwood City Park.
LLCP Assistant Manager Madison Larsin gave specific, detailed instructions on how to plant the seeds, and Park Manager Juanita Drought did imagery exercises asking about 20 participants to close their eyes and visualize being the seed put in the ground, wrapped in a blanket of sand, tucked in and protected by the heaviness of rocks.
“Nurturing ideas, sowing intentions and cultivating relationships with care and patience,” Juanita said.
There will be a Reveal Party during Earth Week to see how the little sprouts are doing.
Photo by Matthew Nagy