Once we get past the holidays, many (if not most) humans deplore winter. Not naturally equipped to deal with the cold, we shun the outdoors and wait to be rescued by spring. But winter, more than a season of darkness and death, is essential to nature's cycle and offers many benefits to man as well.
The winter snow pack is vital to many ecosystems across the globe, feeding our streams and aquifers. Despite the bleak landscape, nature' recyclers are busy, decomposing the litter of last year's bounty and returning essential nutrients to the soil. Wintering deciduous plants take advantage of this process, expanding their root systems and storing food for the verdant months ahead. Nature's predators, extended the gift of winter weakened prey, find plenty of sustenance to expand their own numbers while ensuring that the population of primary consumers remains healthy and under control. And, within the soil, in pupae or at the bottom of ponds, insect larvae prepare for their season in the sun, when they will play vital roles as prey, pollinators, scavengers and recyclers.
We humans also benefit from this cold, dark season. Some enjoy winter sports while naturalists are treated to an influx of visitors from the north. For all of us, the short days and limited outdoor chores provide more time for cerebral activity, a specialty of our species; reading, conversation, writing and reflection are all encouraged. Whether we take advantage of winter's gifts or just stare at a TV and wait for spring is up to us.
