Condition Monitoring Star of the Week, May 4th - 10th - Wake County, NC

Our Condition Monitoring Star of the Week was posted on May 4th by observer with station number NC-WK-31 in Wake County, NC.  We chose this report because of the diversity and quality of information it provides.  Not only does the observer include information about impacts at their household and yard, they also let us know what's going on in their community.  They also do a great job of identifying who and what is being impacted such as certain plant and animal species and human activities.  Please take a moment to read this excellent report.  Perhaps it may inspire some ideas about what you can include in your own reports.  Great job NC-WK-31!!!

Categories
Agriculture
Energy
Plants and Wildlife
Society and Public Health
Tourism and Recreation

Rainfall over the week was only .52 of an inch, although four days were impacted by weather events. High winds added to ground surface drying. Immediately located agriculture - fields are still not being planted at this time. We have a ditch that is over 4 feet deep - there is still water standing at the bottom of this ditch, however, even rain events have not hampered planting of garden or flowers. All trees are now leafed out. Sadly, the Nellie R Steven flowers were impacted by a freeze last month, so there are only a few flowers - the Savannah and Foster hollies are starting to show signs of flowers to come. Birds not previously noticed but now identified on our property include Thrasher, and Blue Grosbeak. The Blue Jays are flying in pairs; and the cowbirds are still making pests of themselves. Red Crimson clover is nearly finished blooming - although all types of bees are still foraging on it. White clover is now abundant. It appears that the privet is about to bloom; the "red-tips" are in the last week of their bloom. Last week was very cool, and wet, and chilly with the wind. This week the temps are warming into the 80's daytime, and low 50's at night. Grasses are growing well. Spring festivals and public events were slightly impacted by heavy rainfall on Friday, but the weekend was perfect for all of them ( BBQ, Strawberry Festivals ) Pollen levels are being reported as still on the higher end of the spectrum, but it is not as noticeable as it was just 2 weeks ago. Low energy usage on a/c or heat ( needed to use heat last week).