BUGS

This past Saturday I spent the morning digging in the dirt, turning the earth. As a part of my environmental studies class, I am to take part in a service learning project. The agency I am working with is called Boise Urban Garden School (BUGS).

BUGS uses organic gardening to interconnect community, students and teachers in a variety of issues. During school year and summer programs, people learn about sustainability, nutrition, ecology, health and literacy. Through actively running a summer produce stand, the students learn about local food economies. The "authentic learning environment" enables students to learn through "inquiry and problem solving". This in turn spurs critical thinking. Here, students can learn about where their food comes from. They learn to look at nature in a new light, and realize that there is an alternative to "a world of instant gratification". With the many values they learn through the BUGS program, we are one step closer to making the world a better place.

There are programs like this all over the world, even in your neighborhood. They may not necessarily be a school, but could be a community garden. Whether you live in the city or on a self sustaining farm, remember to connect with the food you eat. Food is more than just a commodity, more than simply nourishment and a way to survive. We are all connected to the world. With our fast food and processed everything, we lose sight of our roots.

The BUGS program is more than one way to find that reconnection. I encourage you to find something in your own community, or even just have a window box filled with herbs or tomatoes. There is more gratification in food that is cultivated from our own hands. And, nothing has ever tasted so delicious!

A Clandestine Soak at Kirkham Hot Springs

Climbing through the last crevice after scrambling over slick rocks, I entered a new world. Steam swirled all around obstructing my view of anything solid. Rock formations took on ethereal shapes. The river rushed by to my right, adding its own voice to the scenario. The wind briefly swept by, momentarily wiping away the steam and mist. Before me a beautiful landscape stood exposed. I basked in the beauty of Kirkham Hot springs. Snow began to fall lightly dusting my hair and jacket, melting as it met with the heated spring air. Hot water tumbled over age old boulders filling the crystal clean pool. The temperature was a bit too warm for me, almost, clocking in between 109 -106 degrees. Nevertheless, an excellent soak was still to be had. Kirkham Hot Springs is located in the Boise National Forest shortly beyond Lowman, ID. In the summer months camping spots are sometimes available. The pools are under night time closure year round due to behavior unbecoming of my fellow hot-springers. You can be seen from the road above, so swim wear is highly recommended, and required in the spring/summer months. As always, when partaking in the glories of Mother Nature, tread lightly, silently, and leave her in better shape than you found her.

A Visit to Vulcan

Along FR 474 S in the Boise National forest you'll take a short hike and come upon one of Idaho's most unique hot springs. Vulcan hot springs provides an unexpected treat to us hot springers. It can be described as more of a hot river than simply a pool. It's dammed in a few places to provide soaking, but the main pool is the golden egg. Large enough to practically swim laps in, yet shallow enough to comfortably kneel, Vulcan sits at approximately 105 degrees. This temperature has varied with people trying to adjust the pool. Recently the pool has been widened, unnecessarily. The creek/river varies from 98 to 109 degrees at its source.

As beautiful and serene as Vulcan appears, there are some draw backs. I worry that the water flow may not be very high due to its size. Also, I have encountered some red spider mite/chigger bites on my various visits. The pool is easily accessible, with bountiful camping at the trail head and throughout the Boise National Forest. With this comes over use, trash, and disrespect for Mother Earth. You'll more than likely pass a group going in or out, but I would still highly recommend a visit.

Rumor has it that "big brother" wants to harness the geothermal power or the Vulcan complex. This would take it away from all of us. Please do your part in keeping this area beautiful.