#Red Rock-Secret Mountain Wilderness

[thorsenmark]

What a Wonderful Way to Experience a Sunday in Coconino National Forest by Mark Stevens Via Flickr: A setting looking to the northwest while hiking and taking in views over nearby evergreens and then to eroded formations in the high ground present. This is along the Fay Canyon Trail in Coconino National Forest.

[foxbirdy]

can you talk a bit about what you do as conservation work? i’ve seen a couple of your posts float around (the seasonal worker comic and the one about the remote island) and have looked into conservation stuff a bit myself and it all looks super cool!! i was just looking for a bit of a more personable take that what job sites describe

Of course! :) A lot of the work I've done has been in either trail maintenance, habitat restoration, or biological fieldwork, with a little bit of outdoor recreation stuff mixed in. Pretty much all of those things (barring the outdoor rec) have been in partnership with or working directly for government agencies (DNR, USFS, BLM, NPS, USFWS, etc.)

Trail work is very trades oriented - you are using tools (generally handtools - especially if you are working in designated wilderness, which prohibits any kind of mechanization) and your body to build effective infrastructure that will last a good, long time. Project work covers a huge range - brushing trail, digging tread, building structures, fence repair, rock work/wall building, etc. Often you have to work with natural materials on the project site, because hauling in lumber or stone is not feasible. It's hands-on & technical work, and it needs a lot of creativity! Your end goal is that no one knows you were there at all, because your work blends seamlessly into the landscape. A lot of people who hike or mountain bike don't realize how much effort and complexity it takes to maintain a trail! It's a very secret service, & I think there's something really beautiful in that. It's dirty, hard work, and you'll very likely go long periods without access to service or utilities (lots of treating/filtering your own water, camp-cooking your meals, showering in the creek, and sleeping on the ground).

The habitat restoration I've done has generally involved the removal of invasive plants & the planting/seeding of natives. This is also pretty intense physical work! You might have to get certified/trained in working with herbicides, which are sometimes a necessary tool in fighting invasive plants. Hack-splash or drill-fill are the most commonly used herbicide techniques in restoration, because broadcast dispersion is considered a last resort. That involves individually treating each invasive plant with herbicide, using minimal amounts and concentrations to limit the effect on the surrounding ecosystem. The two biggest restoration projects I've worked on are the re-planting of disturbed alpine meadows (50K plants in about six weeks) and the removal of invasive coconut monocultures from native rainforest (hacking down palms with a machete, and spraying/injecting the cut stump with a small amount of herbicide to prevent it from coming back).

My biological fieldwork has been mostly marine-oriented - I've done a lot of work with seabirds, as well as coral reef survey & tagging sharks, mantas, tuna, and dolphins. My seabird work involved monitoring nesting colonies (counting babies, tracking growth) with some tagging, banding, and sample collection as well. The seabirds I worked most with were several different booby species, Greater Frigatebirds, Red & White-tailed Tropicbirds, noddies (both black and brown), & terns (white & sooty). Most of the marine tagging I did was using handline fishing techniques, and required me to have a lot familiarity with/certifications for boat operation & seamanship. Biological fieldwork has definitely been lower labor-intensive than trail work or restoration, but still requires a lot of hiking & hauling gear around remote (& sometimes treacherous) terrain! You will also have really intimate exposure to animal bodies and death, and will probably (definitely) get pooped on/thrown up on/bled on at some point.

A big common theme throughout these kinds of jobs is the ability to work in small groups, in isolated places, for long periods at a time. I hope this was the kind of information you were looking for in terms of what the actual work is! Feel free to reach out/message me if this didn't actually answer your questions <3

[https-furina]

guidelines.

♡ i primarily write for genshin men however i will try my damn hardest to write for genshin women too. ♡ i write sfw only however i will interact with nsfw accounts/works. ♡ i will not write for overtly sensitive topics and i have the right to decline such requests. ♡ i am dyslexic and would appreciate no harsh feedback in response; i will be editing prior to releases. ♡ i will most likely stick to headcanons/preferences in group posts however i am not against the idea of individual posts (albeit maybe ooc.)

─── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───

mondstadt. | nation of freedom.

“a city of freedom that lies in the northeast of teyvat. from amongst mountains and wide-open plains, carefree breezes carry the scent of dandelions - a gift from the anemo god, barbatos - across cider lake to mondstadt, which sits on an island in the middle of the lake.”

the guide to mondstadt.

liyue. | nation of contracts.

“a bountiful harbor that lies in the east of teyvat. mountains stand tall and proud alongside the stone forest, that, together with the open plains and lively rivers, make up liyue’s bountiful landscape, which shows its unique beauty through each of the four seasons. just how many gifts from the geo god lie in wait amongst the rocks of liyue’s mountains?”

the guide to liyue.

inazuma. | nation of eternity.

“an isolated archipelago far east of teyvat. overcome endless thunderstorms and set foot on the islands of red maple and cherry blossoms. on winding shores and towering cliffs, and in forests and mountains full of secrets, witness the eternity pursued by her excellency, the almighty narukami ogosho.”

the guide to inazuma.

sumeru. | nation of wisdom.

“the city of scholars located in the west-central part of teyvat. a fantastical nation of both lush rainforest and barren desert, where countless fruits of wisdom grow and are buried. whether travelers travel from afar through the forest to reach the academy city or delve deep into the desert to discover the historical ruins of the red desert, a wealth of valuable knowledge awaits them here.”

the guide to sumeru.

fontaine. | nation of justice.

“a terrestrial sea in the center of teyvat. following the direction of pure currents, crossing wilderness, the depths of the forests and vastness of the sea and sand, arriving at the origin of all the waters of the continent. at the top of the waterfall, in the depths of the capital atop the terrestrial sea… a story that has never been heard, a legend that has been forgotten, like a lost kingdom sunken beneath the waves, yearning for a bard to sing its drowned songs.”

the guide to fontaine.

natlan. | nation of war.

guide coming soon.

snezhnaya. | nation of love.

guide coming soon.

khaenri’ah. | a nation without a god.

“khaenri’ah was a nation without a god - not because it had a god that died or abandoned them, but because it never had a god to begin with. it was a powerful nation, built purely by humans, an unprecedented flourishing and glorious civilisation - it was the pride of humankind.”

an ode to a lost nation.

───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ─────

celestia | fina’s events & other.

♡ sugar ‘n’ spice — 100 follower celebration event:

masterlist

♡ omnes una manet nox — a genshin murder mystery/horror:

masterlist

♡ a café on the seafront — 500 follower celebration event:

masterlist

© https-furina 2023.

[herbalnature]

This image captures a stunning view from within a cave, framing the lush greenery and the striking red rock formations of the Secret Mountain Wilderness Area in Arizona. The natural archway creates a vibrant contrast between the earthy tones of the rock and the verdant forest landscape beyond. Credit: /u/wallerhilliard

[proasailor]

Fay Canyon - the best introduction to the Red Rock Secret Mountain Wilderness outside of Sedona, AZ (Canyon Eden Collection) 50mm f/9 1/40s ISO 100

[stumbleimg]

Red Rock-Secret Mountain Wilderness Area, Arizona [6650x3748] [OC]

[cosmicanger]

Red Rock-Secret Mountain Wilderness Area, Arizona

[connorcrenshaw1]

Into the Wild: Unleashing the Spirit of Mountain Bike Trails

The wilderness beckons, calling out to adventurous souls who seek exhilaration and a connection with nature. In the realm of mountain biking, where adrenaline meets serenity, lies a vast network of trails waiting to be explored. These trails, like veins coursing through untamed landscapes, offer riders an invitation to embark on a thrilling journey. In this evocative article, we delve into the heart of mountain bike trails, where passion and nature converge, weaving a tale of adventure and discovery.

A Symphony of Trails

Imagine a symphony playing its symphony—mountain bike trails compose a melodic tapestry, each with its own unique rhythm and tempo. From the gentle cadence of beginner-friendly trails, where riders can find their footing and build confidence, to the heart-pounding crescendo of advanced trails, where technical challenges push riders to their limits, the symphony of trails caters to riders of all abilities. Trails whisper tales of flow, where banked turns and jumps harmonize seamlessly, while others resonate with the relentless pulse of uphill battles and thrilling descents. It is within this symphony of trails that riders find their rhythm, their own musical expression upon the earth's stage.

Dancing with Nature

Enter the natural amphitheater of mountain bike trails, where riders become dancers in sync with the elements. Trails wind through ancient forests, their canopies whispering secrets of centuries past. Riders glide across open meadows, where the sun's golden rays illuminate the path ahead. The majesty of mountain peaks surrounds them, as if standing guard over their daring exploits. It is a dance where the movements of the bike meld with the rhythm of the earth—every pedal stroke is a step, every turn a twirl. Together, rider and nature create a choreography that transcends ordinary experiences, a dance that connects them to the untamed beauty of the world.

Pilgrimage to Uncharted Trails

In this pilgrimage of the soul, riders embark on a quest to discover the hidden gems of mountain bike trails. There are destinations that hold mystical allure—a sacred place for riders seeking communion with the spirit of the sport. Moab's red rock landscapes ignite a fiery passion, while Whistler's lush forests whisper secrets in hushed tones. And in Finale Ligure, the Italian coast reveals a tapestry of trails blending the beauty of the Mediterranean with the thrill of mountain biking. These destinations offer not only trails to conquer but also a vibrant tapestry of community and culture, where riders from all corners of the globe gather, united by their shared love for the two-wheeled journey.

Guardians of the Trails

As custodians of these enchanted paths, riders bear a responsibility to protect and preserve the delicate balance between nature and adventure. Sustainable trail practices become the guiding principles, ensuring that the wild beauty they traverse remains unspoiled for generations to come. Riders embrace the ethos of stewardship, participating in trail maintenance and restoration, fostering harmony between human pursuit and the natural world. It is through their collective efforts that the trails remain alive, vibrant, and ready to welcome the next generation of intrepid riders. Mountain bike trails offer more than just physical challenges; they provide an escape into the untamed wilderness, a dance with nature, and an opportunity for self-discovery. Like a symphony, the trails resonate with diverse melodies, inviting riders to find their own rhythm. They are a gateway to breathtaking landscapes, where riders become one with the untamed elements. And as guardians of these trails, riders uphold their responsibility to protect and sustain the delicate balance between adventure and preservation. So, heed the call of the wild, saddle up, and embark on an unforgettable journey through the enchanting world of mountain bike trails.

[delivish]

hearthfire snippet

updated tags on this! if you like south park, fantasy, love triangles or (my personal fav) tweek being a secret badass, check out hearthfire >:] will update fairly frequently since it's my current brainrot fic while i work on getting ypiac done.

snippet of ch. 4 under cut. what pride do you have tweek, huh?

McCormick Keep was a limestone fortress on a hill. 

Tweek stuck his head out the stagecoach window, breathed in the cool early evening air, and watched as the castle drew closer and closer, his heart pounding out a steady rhythm of nervousness in his chest. The sun was a ball of fire on the horizon, and the castle blazed in its light. Its smooth, white limestone walls defiantly reflected the colors of the sunset right back at it, oranges and yellows and pinks, reds like fresh blood. 

The McCormicks had made their home in a rugged land of steep foothills, and their castle sat on one of the highest, overlooking a stream running through a green valley. The craggy landscape formed a natural barrier and had made the keep nearly impossible to approach, save for one narrow, winding road that dipped first into the valley before cutting a zigzagging path through the hills. White fir, oak, and pines clung to the foothills like stubborn whiskers on an old man’s face. 

Tweek’s dark green eyes drank it all in, too fascinated to be afraid for once. The stagecoach bounced wildly over the uneven road as the driver urged their horses forward, cracking his whip. Tweek was no stranger to nature — he had been raised in the wilds, after all — but this place was very different from the harsh mountains and dry, wind-swept plateaus he was used to. It was cold here. The air was crisp and chilly, and Tweek shivered as he craned his head to admire the scenery as they made the final dizzying ascent to McCormick Keep. The land unfurled maplike before them, green and rolling, and Tweek could see for miles in every direction — the stream that had looked so small from the ground cut like a long, blue ribbon through the valley and into an ancient coniferous forest until it finally emptied into a massive lake far off in the distance. If he squinted, he could just make out the high stone walls of Cailean sitting beside the lake, the one and only major city here in the McCormick-controlled territories. The rest were all towns and villages too small to name, fierce warlord clans, and leagues and leagues of uncharted and untamed wilderness where foul beasts were rumored to make their lairs. 

There was an oft-repeated joke in Zaron: McCormick lands were the only place where a person could legally show their backside because once you were here, the only thing left to do was turn your ass back around. 

But...it was beautiful here. Tweek hadn’t been expecting that — the McCormicks had such a dreadful reputation; somehow, he’d thought this would all be a barren wasteland. 

Tweek leaned back in his seat, shivering again as the stagecoach bounced along the road up to the castle gates. It hadn’t been so bad during the day, but the temperature had dropped with the setting sun, and with winter several weeks away, the fact that he was already shaking like a leaf in the wind did not bode well. Tweek already had enough trouble controlling his tics without the added help; thank you very much.

Tweek stole a glance at his traveling companion. Bebe had fallen asleep on the seat across from him. Her head was tilted back, her lips were slightly parted, and she snored like a congested goose, rocking with the motions of the stagecoach without stirring once. A thin line of drool seeped from one corner of her mouth. Other men probably would have found her unflattering (Bebe herself would have been horrified to learn that she snored so loudly), but all Tweek could think of was how cute she looked. Bebe was so vivacious she seemed almost ethereal, but she was very human, a beautiful young woman with big dreams who just so happened to drool in her sleep. It was really fucking adorable, man. 

Tweek tore his eyes away from her. He’d been stealing glances at her face all day, but now that he had the opportunity to stare without her knowing, he couldn’t bring himself to do it. Watching someone while they slept straddled a fine line between protective and downright creepy, and that wasn’t a line Tweek was willing to cross. Tweek definitely had some creeper tendencies, but he also had some pride, damn it. 

Not much, but some. 

[luvrsoath]

# LIYUE

A bountiful harbor that lies in the east of Teyvat. Mountains stand tall and proud alongside the stone forest, that together with the open plains and lively rivers make up Liyue's bountiful landscape, which shows its unique beauty through each of the four seasons. Just how many gifts from the Geo God lie in wait amongst the rocks of Liyue's mountains?

mikoshi mai — a dream in the fog

yip tzsming — forerunning festivity

# INAZUMA

An Isolated Archipelago Far East of Teyvat. Overcome endless thunderstorms and set foot on the islands of red maple and cherry blossoms. On winding shores and towering cliffs, and in forests and mountains full of secrets, witness the Eternity pursued by Her Excellency, the Almighty Narukami Ogosho.

asato akio — the heir’s rebellion

asato sana — a rising storm

arataki ki — chaos in the thawing sea

# FONTAINE

A terrestrial sea in the center of Teyvat. Following the direction of pure currents, crossing wilderness, the depths of the forests and vastness of the sea of sand, arriving at the origin of all the waters of the continent. At the top of the waterfall, in the depths of the capital atop the terrestrial sea... a story that has never been heard, a legend that has been forgotten, like a lost kingdom sunken beneath the waves, yearning for a bard to sing its drowned songs.

papillion “achilles” veillantif — oath to achilles

# SNEZHNAYA

One of the seven regions of Teyvat. It is the nation that worships Tsaritsa, the Cryo Archon. The Fatui, a military force under her control, is particularly notorious for their diehard devotion and their unscrupulous methods in enacting her will.

ngô yến thi xuân — the queen’s mask

vanserra malykai — as stories foretold

[authorbettyadams]

The Storm Song - Excerpt 6 - Flying Sparks - A Novel – An Approaching Danger

Original Post: http://www.authorbettyadams.com/bettys-blog/the-storm-song-excerpt-flying-sparks-a-novel-an-approaching-danger

Drake McCarty’s leg was shattered deep in the wilderness, and as the flash flood closed over him, he looked death in the face. When he wakes up in a hospital bed, in a military base that shouldn’t exist, he has a whole leg and a furious sister to deal with.

Excerpt 6

Danger. Warmth fled, reds faded, oranges flickered, yellows weakened, hungry leaves suddenly glowed with green as only the blue and violet fought their way through the atmosphere that was even now heralding the approaching disturbance. The faint atmospheric pressure changes barely registered on his outer surface yet in air this thin. However hard experience had taught him that even this still, thin air could send even rocks tumbling when once it began to stir. The flat taste of the garden would be replaced with the light and pleasant tang of shifting charges and the music of the mountain would pound around him. To experience the symphony was the main reason he had ventured out today. There was very little he enjoyed more in this exile than to plant himself here and listen to the world cry out around him; but the small figure sprawled at his base presented a problem. He had not had a chance to interact with the young of this world since he had arrived, but it was clear that they were every bit as fragile as the mature members of their species. However, this particular ember had shown sensitivity to the waves that he had never seen in any of the adults he had worked with over the years. Hopefully the little one would feel the oncoming storm and retreat to his home and safety but time rolled on and the human only seemed to grow lethargic. The deep red from the lone star overhead seemed to have lulled the ember into sleep, thought his membrane danced with a vigorous defense at the high violets. After a moment’s calculation he decided that he could not wait any longer. It would be far too dangerous for the human ember to linger in the garden. The laws that bound him forbade him from interacting with any outside of the base but there were more subtle ways to get his point across. He began to sing softly of the approaching storm, hoping the youth would understand.

Science Fantasy Adventure Story

100K Words

Order Now!

FoundFamily #AlternateHistory #FlyingSparks #ScienceFiction #Sci

Audio Narration and Animation - https://youtu.be/8wOHkDy8_sc

Indiegogo https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/flying-sparks-a-novel-of-dragon-bear-and-boy/x/20737048#/

Kickstarter https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/humansareweird/flying-sparks-volume-1-science-fantasy-novel

Humans are Weird Books - https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B00WQ0MDD4/allbooks?ingress=0&visitId=3974e835-72b1-447d-8da0-a11f0b13024d&store_ref=ap_rdr&ref_=ap_rdr

[thorsenmark]

End of Trail by Mark Stevens Via Flickr: An exhibit or sign posted in this forested setting along the Fay Canyon Trail. While my thought and composing this image was to initially just capture an image of the sign, I decided to pull back on the focal length and include more of the surrounding setting. Metering the image was a little more difficult as I knew the areas caught in sunlight would be quite bright compared to the more shadowed areas amongst the trees. I later worked with control points in DxO PhotoLab 4 and then made some adjustments to bring out the contrast, saturation and brightness I wanted for the final image.

[cliffgrove]

“So You Got Political, Can You Speak On That?”

[ghostsandgod]

Brins Mesa Sunset by Guy Schmickle Via Flickr: A lone blooming agave stands tall on Sedona's Brins Mesa overlooking the green expanse of Mormon Canyon below. Munds Mountain is off in the distance.

[spirited-confections]

Devil's Bridge on a cloudy day, Sedona AZ

[justinfranktidwell]

Red Rock-Secret Mountain Wilderness Area, Sedona, Arizona, USA, 21 May 2022.😎