The James River Park is holding a Belle Isle History Hike this Saturday from 11 am to 1 pm.
Here is some information:
Join us for a family friendly hike to one of Richmond’s historic gems, Belle Isle. Learn about the geologic and human history of the area and the role Richmond played in the development of our nation. Please bring water, a snack and good shoes.
Ages: 8 and Up
Price: $5
Location: Tredegar Parking Lot
No, these are not the new Oregon Hill bees, but a different type that can be found on Belle Island. Miner bees (the correct scientific name for this genus being ‘Andrena’) are one of the largest groups of solitary bees. It is believed to consist of over 1,300 known species of bees across the world.
In general, they seem to prefer to build nests in sandy soil, although some species are apparently less fussy, whilst others are more selective. The Ashy mining bee, Andrena cineraria is thought to prefer sloping sites, whereas the Grey-patched mining bee, Andrena nitida will nest in formal lawns but also sheep-grazed hillsides. They build little tunnels that look sort of like worm casts.
Neighbors are concerned about the increased activity due to Dominion River Rock and other outdoor events that could disturb the Belle Island miner bees, and asked that the City park keepers put some of these signs back up.
It was a great day to walk down to the James River and hear it roar. Some experts said it would crest at 16.2 feet this evening, the highest it has been in 9 years.
Laurel Street neighbor Charles Pool made it down to Belle Island and took this photo:
Meanwhile, the Dogtown Dish folks went further downriver to Fulton and took this shot of the historic Intermediate Terminal Building and future proposed site for Stone Brewing’s World Bistro & Gardens.
Pine Street neighbor Stephenie Harrington is organizing a ‘First Day Walk’. From her announcement:
Tuesday, January 1st
10amMeet at gazebo on S. Pine St, we plan to head over to Belle Island promptly at 10 o’clock. Kids, strollers and dogs on leashes welcome. Please comment below or message me if you plan to join us.
We may get some sprinkles but forecast looks quite warm.
Happy New Year!
By the way, if you are planning something further away- you may want to check out this post on the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation’s website about Virginia State Parks First Day Hikes 2019.
Photo from Library of Virginia
