By Thuy Nguyen, Rachel Blythe, Heidi Blythe (Class of 2022)
Photographers: Thuy Nguyen and Rachel Blythe
Video: Iris Ng (Class of 2021)

On the morning of September 25, 2018, the sun was doing antics among the specks of dust. Birds were chirping in the autumn wind, and rich hue of leaves fluttered away as nature’s breath broke through. The Freshman class reached their destination for their Biology class trip—UC Hopland Research and Extension Center.

After the threatening fire that had occurred in the summer, it burned most of the land, specifically the oak trees. Besides the Freshman class, many other volunteers in the community also gathered together to aid with the repair and research. Volunteers were separated into groups that specialized in certain tasks. The class was responsible for collecting acorns from 12 healthy oak trees. Each tree required at least 30 acorns to be replanted in the damaged areas. With the spare time, our coordinator gave us a tour around the property. 

Unburned land on the left in contrast with the burnt land on the right.

Destroyed and charred tree

The trees stood in their long-forgotten glory, naked and charred black by the fire. Soot and ash covered the earth beneath their leafless branches, giving a sense of ruin and death. On the other side of the fence, however, a different environment clashed with the one filled with gray and shadows. There stood trees strong and tall amidst green grass and bright lights.

The trip ended with a group lunch. We plan to return to the research center in the spring to plant the acorn sprouts. In the future when we become seniors, we plan to revisit the center to see the progress of the planted acorns.

DVGS Freshman Biology Class Trip to UC Hopland Research Center – September 25, 2018