The Experimental Farm in Ottawa was established in 1889 as a research facility. It covers about 1000 acres and is situated more or less in the middle of the city, although probably at its inception it was at the west end of the built up area. A large part of it consists of an arboretum which is a very pleasant place to go for a walk.
I love white pines and their soft shiny needles.
This area of the arboretum is at a higher elevation than the trees in the first photo, but the ground still felt moist so I guess the water table follows the contours of the land. It seems counter-intuitive, but sometimes the water table on the top of a hill is closer to the surface than lower ground. That's because the top of the hill has experienced erosion lessening the depth of soil above the water table.
A couple of moms are taking their wee ones for a walk. Earlier an outdoor exercise class for parents and babies was taking place under a big shade tree. What a great way to spend an afternoon! At the left of this photo peeking through the trees is the Rideau Canal which in the winter is transformed into a very long skateway.
Pretty peaceful, isn't it?
Very lovely. I have never been there but have wanted to go there for a long, long tine. :)
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