There are a number of springs in the loess hills that border the river bottoms.  This is one we call “Indian Swamp” as there is an ancient trail and thong tree that points toward these springs.  Technically this swamp is considered a “Fen” as the water is alkaline.  I have always found the floating mats of marsh marigold and duck weed beautiful.  At dusk the plant’s shiny leaves reflect the blue light of the high sky overhead, and the water glimmers darkly in shades of brown and olive.  The spring peepers and western chorus frogs nearly drove me mad with their incessant songs.  NEXT