In the American Midwest, March is the messiest month. Cool, cloudy, breezy weather is the rule, with frequent rain or wet snow. At the same time, the ground is too cold to absorb this moisture and most of the shrubs and trees are still in their winter dormancy. The combination of these factors leads to flooded streams, soggy fields and muddy trails. Furthermore, the winter cold has put nature's housekeepers on hold, leaving plenty of leaves and dead vegetation to clog the woodlands and thickets.
But nature thrives under these conditions. While many humans prefer manicured lawns, clutter-free gardens and dry, even pathways, wild ecosystems depend on the seasonal buildup of nutrient-rich debris, which will fuel the growth of spring and early summer. Flooded fields offer vital rest stops for migrant shorebirds and waterfowl while ephemeral pools are the favored breeding sites for insects and amphibians. Without the mess of March, we could not enjoy the glorious landscape of May!
