Les Harrison is a longtime resident of north Florida, having attended public schools in three counties. He has a Bachelor Degree from the University of Florida in Journalism and a Master’s of Science from Auburn University in Agricultural Economics. He is the author of more than 2000 newspaper and magazine stories and journal articles. During his career, he held positions in private, government and educational (university level) sectors. He holds the title of Extension Agent Emeritus. He can be reached at harrison.gl@gmail.com.
As summer of 2020 progresses into its hottest months, the local growth of trees, and warm season plants and weeds is accelerating rapidly. Fortunately, the rain has been sufficient, its distribution wide, and the timing good (at least so far) to support the development. Leaves, frons, and needles are producing green tones and shades which…Read more
The State of Florida is known worldwide for its natural resources and hospitable environment. In the range of 26 to 30 degrees north latitude on this planet, most land masses are barely inhabitable and devoid of water. On the tropical edge, Florida is a lush land with forest, beaches, lakes and rivers. Unfortunately, in the…Read more
Social distancing and all the other COVID-19 safety protocols have complicated life. Once simple activities have taken on a new complexity and resulted in additional obstacles for safely completing any duty or chore. As such, the deeds, tasks, and jobs all are piling up at a feverish clip and the frequency is accelerating. The rapidity…Read more
A surprise visit from an acquaintance can be a pleasant distraction from the day-to-day routine most experience. It allows the participants to catchup on life and activities of mutual interest, and possibly to plan for future interaction. The spontaneous appearance also can raise questions as to why the guest suddenly, and unexpectedly, appeared. Did they…Read more
Now that the weather has settled into a summer temperature pattern, there is more time for outdoor activities while social distancing. Most of the sounds of nature are pleasant and inviting, but there are a few which put the listener on alert. Low frequency droning is one of those unmistakable sounds, especially when associated with…Read more
The summer of 2020 is here with its oppressive heat and humidity during much of the daylight hours. Still there is time in the evening to enjoy the environment and the creatures in it. Chief among the entertaining insects are butterflies, and there are many different species here or passing through on a seasonal basis….Read more
April showers produce May flowers, as the old saying goes. That adage assumes there are April (or May) showers, but the liquid from above is never a guaranteed certainty. Some year’s the spring bloom of native plants is influenced by a dry April, a late March frost or a relatively warm winter. Fortunately, there are…Read more
With spring barely out of the starting gate, all kinds of plants are sprouting and producing blooms. Even winter’s last gasp of low temperatures only slightly slows the progress. Much like an Easter egg hunt, a search of the landscape can bring multiple surprises. Two colorful plants, spiderwort and rustweed, which are growing in north…Read more
Subtlety is an often-overlooked skill. It relies on the holder’s ability to be notices without overtly seeking attention to garish traits or actions. In the wilds of the southeast’s spring season bloom there are species which add color to the environment without the clashing brilliance of high maintenance landscape shrubs. One of these muted bright…Read more
There is something to be said for being a longtime native resident. While it does somewhat limit ones perception from a global perspective, it does encourage focus on perfecting the traits and qualities which are applicable to a specific environment. The unique, and very pleasant, environment of north Florida is an excellent example of near…Read more
