One of the most fun ways to pay attention that we have at the Center is a little-known program at Menomonee Valley called “Photo Phenology.” Each month, our Community Program Coordinator Lainet invites anyone who is interested to join her on a walk through the Valley. They walk the same route each month, using the Center’s cameras to take pictures at the same sites. Over the last two years, they have documented amazing seasonal and long-term changes — after all, they started before Three Bridges Park existed! That photographic record is extraordinarily valuable to understanding what is going on in our ecosystem (not to mention it’s a beautiful set of photos).

But it isn’t just the birds and plants we want to pay attention to. It’s just as important for us to understand what is happening in our neighborhoods, to notice the needs and changes in the human part of our ecosystems.

I was thrilled back in February at how many people showed up at our Menomonee Valley branch’s Community Forums to share their thoughts, ideas and wisdom about the Center and how we can fit into the fabric of our community. I wish I could share the 15 pages of notes from the forums with you here — it’s fascinating and exciting stuff! If you’re curious, come ask me, I’m happy to share. Every staff person at the Menomonee Valley branch has a goal for this year to find at least one way to respond to some of the feedback we received during our forums, so you’ll be seeing many of the fruits of that effort soon.

So, how can you start to pay attention? I would encourage you to check out the Photo Phenology programs happening May 23rd and June 27th. Not only do you get a lovely walk with one of the most delightful gals you’ll ever meet — you get to hone your “paying attention” skills and contribute to a lasting record for the Menomonee Valley.