Big Meadows
The 134-acre meadow at the top of the mountains creates a very unique ecosystem in Shenandoah National Park. The meadows and big skies are a strong contrast in this place of tall trees and dense forests. It is a biological island that supports biodiversity and rare habitats, including wetlands known as fens. These fens have the highest concentration of rare species in the park, including plants, amphibians, and rare insects. The open meadow is a haven for a great variety of pollinators such as butterflies and birds, and also provides ideal habitat for raptors and migrating birds. Native Americans historically burned the meadows to keep them open, and the NPS now uses prescribed burns and mowing to maintain them. It is also a lovely place for humans to wander! Original Watercolor framed to 14x23. Available at Middle Street Gallery in Washington, VA through June 28.