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I took a short scouting trip Sunday that included a visit to Willow City Loop. In addition to Willow City Loop I stop by the field near the Danz cabins in LBJ State Historical Park. This field usually has bluebonnets even in very poor seasons.
The most consistent theme for every spot I visited on Sunday was - DRY! There were also several spots that have recently burned from grass fires, including a large area just south of the town of Willow City.
I got the sense that nature is holding its breath hoping and waiting for rain. The Hill Country desperately needs rain.
Willow City Loop according to the rainfall maps is one spot that averaged more rain than the rest of the Hill Country. However, the rainfall amounts even in Willow City Loop have been well below normal for fall 2007 and winter 2007-2008.
Good News:
The good news is that I was able to spot seedlings along the south end and north end of Willow City Loop. I even spotted this early bloom along the section of the Loop that over looks the valley below.
Bad News:
The abundance of rain last year has resulted in an excess of grass and other dead vegatation. This is evident in the photo of above. The seedlings that do exist in the areas covered by the excessive dead foliage will have to fight through it to be seen. Also, I did not spot as many seedlings as I usually do this time of the year. That could be that the seedlings are still very small. With the lack of rain and a bit cooler temperatues I would expect that the rosettes are relatively small and "sleeping."
Bottomline:
The Hill County needs some good soaking rains. There is still hope - I am trying to remain optimistic. Last year February rainfall in the Hill Country was well below normal then the rain came in March. Currently all of Texas is experiencing the effects of a lingering La Nina which typically results in drier conditions. The La Nina is expected to persist, but weaken from now until June.
RichO
Hunting Texas Wildflowers
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