Canoeing Fishtrap Bay

There is a difference between having knowledge about nature and actually experiencing nature.  As Professor Wilkinson mentioned in class on the first day, children these days know a lot about nature.  However when it comes down to actually knowing what it is like to be in nature, a lot of children lack the experience and connection.  Most kids today can tell you what species is prominent in which areas, or what type of trees is found in which ecosystem, but when put in the actual environment they lack the ability to point out the obvious such as a mangrove or a mockingbird. This just reiterates the fact that it’s not only important for us to have knowledge about nature but the true experiences within nature are just as important if not more important in one’s development and sense of place.

I must say I was actually excited for our canoeing field trip. I have canoed multiple times before and I find it to be a relaxing and enjoyable experience. There’s something about being outside on the water that allows you to disconnect and focus on the things that really matter.  It was our second day of class and for many of us the second time of actually meeting and getting to know each other. My canoeing partner, Fazal seemed confident in his ability to canoe and offered to take the position in the back of the canoe. Within the first three minutes of canoeing I quickly realized it was going to be a long and rememberable day!  After a rough start, some mangroves and some assertive coaching on my part we were off on our way. About midway through our canoeing experience, we were once again heading toward the mangroves. I remember Fazal trying to steer us in the other direction when all the sudden our canoe flipped over! Both Fazal and I looked at each other in disbelief and embarrassment and all I could do was laugh. However our misfortune was a learning experience for the class for Professor Wilkinson demonstrated how to perform a “rescue” and re-flip our canoe back over.

What I liked most about canoeing was the feeling of being surrounded by complete nature and experiencing what nature offers in our own backyard.  There were no buildings or roads nearby; it was just us students and nature.  It was also nice to have Professor Wilkinson with us, for he was very knowledgeable on the estuary, the animals that call it home, and the different types of mangroves. After learning about the oysters and the role they play within the ecosystem, I don’t think I will ever eat another oyster again!