A beautiful stand of cypress can take our breath away, leaving one feeling in awe of their majesty and beauty. Their ability to thrive while surrounded by water astounds. This patch of cypress appear to be at least 20′ in diameter at their base.
These trees are hundreds of years old. One of the oldest living cypress is found near High Springs, Florida. “Big Dan” is estimated to be 2,704 years old. These trees transcend our limited understanding of time. If only we could protect and encourage these trees to continue standing as river sentinels. They anchor the earth, securing it from the ravages of fluctuating river levels. There are stretches along the river where these trees have been removed. In their stead, brush, brambles, and chaos grows. Its a tremendous loss when these trees are removed.
Everyday that we celebrate these staunch sentinels is Earth day and Arbor Day rolled into one. May these trees continue to secure our banks and harbor new generations of bald cypress for centuries to come.
OSFR President Joanne Tremblay
joanne.tremblay@oursantaferiver.org
“Giving Our River A Voice”
