Here we are, the end of the journey that has opened my mind to just how incredible Southern Oregon truly is. I consider myself to be amazingly fortunate that I have this diversified ecosystem as my backyard and all that it contains. I have appreciated so much working with my mentor Doug Kendig and my partner in crime, Marcus Lorusso, over these past months. The skill set that I tackled will help to serve me in my future endeavors for sure. I will never stop thirsting for knowledge to grow and expand my understanding of the world around me, and I have many outdoor excursions planned for myself even after this experience comes to a close.

Darlingtonia californica and the Calochortus howelii have been my two favorite species encountered this summer. One for its awesome carnivorous and sometimes mysterious ways, and the other for its shear beauty and rarity. Marcus has taught me more than I could have imagined over my time here, and I cannot be more thankful. An absolute incredible experience that I will no doubt ever forget. Those I was able to meet in Chicago, I wish you all the best in life and finding your own path. It was astounding to be surrounded by so many brilliant minds; I count myself extremely fortunate. Thanks to Krissa and Wes,

and their team for all their hard work to make all of this possible! Live, love, and enjoy life. Hopefully I’ll have the opportunity to see some of you again soon.

Jonathan Matthews

Going into my second month, I could not be more amped for the work that lies ahead. We have increased our total collections for 2013 from 21 to 33; including Wyethia angustifolia, Campanula scouleri, and Helenium bigelovii. We have really begun to hone in on serpentine endemic and semi-endemic species with some success. We have identified the Darlingtonia californica, and are awaiting the seed to ripen for collection. We have also positively identified the Calochortus howellii, and are in the process to determine if a collection can be made. Dealing with the challenges of working in the field has been eye opening to say the least. It’s become a rare circumstance when I do not return from the field with some sort of bite, scrape, bruise, or an insect hitchhiker. We have been experiencing somewhat of a “heat-wave” across the west coast, and it has been difficult keeping H2O supplies up but we have been making small adjustments; such as trying to get earlier starts when the day is cooler, and it has made a significant difference. 

As I look to the weeks ahead, I can’t help but feel a sense of pride for the contributions the Medford, OR district will make to the program for the 2013 season. Master collections totaling 33, and a potential collections list we are keeping close watch on at 60+ and counting makes you feel good about all the hard work you put into the job. I truly hope everyone I was able to meet, and those I did not, are enjoying the summer as much as I am. Jonathan out.

What an exciting and amazing 4 weeks it has been! Working with Doug Kendig and Marcus Lorusso out of the Medford, OR field office has been quite the educational experience. My favorite plant we’ve come across has defintely been the Darlingtonia californica; what an incredible species native to our area. We have been focusing a lot on sepantine soils, and searching for endemic species found there. Just yesterday we vouchered a Horkelia sericata and completed a collection of a Lomatium californicum, which brings us to 19 completed collections. I have been learning so much about identifying key characteristics within plant families, and the proper terminology to describe said characteristics. I am getting more and more familiar with the Jepson and other field manuals; making it easier and easier to identify and key out specific plants. Marcus and Doug have been incredibly patient and understanding, and I have learned so much from both in such a short amount of time. As I look ahead to the weeks to come I can’t help but feel as though it’s going to be a wild ride! I am so grateful for this opportunity, and the experiences for personal growth encompassed within. Plants are awesome!