Let’s begin with a tour of the functionality. When you start the app, it loads some resources while displaying the title screen, and then you have the chance to view an introduction or skip ahead to the map screen.

Because the project centers around the White River near Indianapolis, we only assembled hydrological data for the area around Marion County for the application (I’ll go into more detail later). On the map screen, a prompt appears to inform you that tapping on the map will simulate a rain event. When the map is tapped, the app displays the series of streams, storm drains, and/or sanitary lines that would carry a raindrop from that location to the White River. It also displays the area (known as a drainage basin or watershed) from which other raindrops would follow the same path. Another prompt then appears to let you know that tapping on the raincloud icon allows for selection of storm intensity. As little as a quarter inch of rain can cause sewers to overflow into streams in this area, so when this option is selected, the path displayed will change to reflect this so you can see where you don’t want to go fishing. You can also toggle the display of the 100-year floodplain, which shows you where you can keep your feet dry during a big flood event. In addition to selecting a location on the map, pressing the compass icon locates your device via GPS, and typing in the address bar uses the Google Maps address look-up feature. Tapping on a question mark icon provides some information about pollutants that threaten the path upstream, as reported by the Indiana Department of Environmental Management.

Pressing the “i” icon at the top opens the informational menu. From here, you can learn more about the app, check current weather alerts and conditions, find out how weather differs from climate, get some tips on how to improve water quality, and visit the project website.

Now we can get into some behind the scenes stuff. We wanted to try to reach a broad audience with Raindrop, so we decided to put the time that we had into developing a cross-platform mobile application. These are known as web apps, in contrast to native apps. If we only had an iPhone native app in the App Store, people using Android phones wouldn’t be able to use it, and vice-versa. To handle cross-platform compatibility, we decided to build Raindrop using a framework called jqMobile, which was in a very early stage when we started. It hasn’t quite had an official release yet (it’s in its third beta release at the moment), but has become increasingly robust with each version.

As for the map, you might wonder how we figured out the path that raindrops take to get to the river. Our collaborator at Williams Creek combined information based on digital elevation models, which can be used to derive the boundaries of natural watersheds, with data from the city that indicates where all of the storm drains and sanitary systems are and which areas drain into them.

We then wrote Python scripts to read the scientific data and generate KML geometry files and look-up tables. The application uses a spatial grid look-up to figure out which basin is tapped (so it’s not perfectly accurate, but not too slow either), and then loads the appropriate file with the graphics to display for the path and the basin. It also reads information from another table that has all the details about pollutants.

Along the way, we’ve combined this technology with graphical elements and design guidance provided by Mary’s team, and scientific guidance and content from Butler. The multi-disciplinary process has really embodied the nature of Mary’s City as A Living Laboratory concept. And just as the aim is to lead curious folks from Mary’s eye-catching mirrors and markers along the river to the website and the web app to learn more, hopefully those who discover the project online will follow the raindrop and find their way down to experience the river as well.

In 1972, when the IMA received the piece of land now known as 100 Acres, the area had already been affected by human use and abuse. Original disruption occurred when the site was used for farmland, until at least the 1940s. In the 1960s, the land was a staging area for highway equipment used for the  construction of the 38th street bridge, which spans the White River. The lovely, tranquil lake that so inspires viewers and artists alike began as a gravel quarry for highway construction, that later filled with flood water from the river.

1937 aerial photo of land in agricultural use

Late 1960s aerial photo of land post 38th St. construction

1971 photo of museum prior to construction digging

Although it did not occur naturally, the lake still provides a unique habitat for our resident blue heron, who remains content in his home despite the past year’s construction activity.

Blue heron, post 100 Acres opening, Sept 2010

Visual representation of ecological succession over time (many thanks to physicalgeography.net)

Path entrenched in invasive honeysuckle; beautiful, but ecologically detrimental

Native wildflowers in 100 Acres, July 2010

Despite its history, there are numerous insects, a thriving assemblage of birds, turtles, raccoons, beaver, opossums, coyote, and deer in the Park. These wildlife populations tend to remain intact because of their common adaptability to urban areas. A survey  performed by Butler University, completed in 2006, took inventory of the flora and fauna found on 100 Acres. In the four years since then, we have seen increased diversity in many of the observed plant, wildlife and bird populations. Yet there is room for improvement.  Our hope is that we can fulfill the habitat needs for less common species to move into the area, as encouraged by the studies and ongoing research from Butler, Marian University’s EcoLab, US Geological Survey and the Marion County Soil and Water Conservation District. Such collaborations are aiding the IMA in evaluating and practicing a logical land management plan.

Shy turtle residing in 100 Acres

What comes next, since 100 Acres resides in an urban environment and will have sustained human activity influencing it forever?  The IMA has taken the first steps for responsibility to the stewardship of renewal and care for the health of an important green space that allows an urban population a bit of respite from the concrete and asphalt jungle. It is time to understand that all green space is not created equal; the simple existence of green leaves and fallow land does not define the health of a landscape. Therefore, the museum’s horticulture and grounds staff is striving to restore the land to something resembling its former glory; a flood plain rich in species and beauty for the enjoyment and education of all.

Horticulture volunteers planting natives around Jaar's Park of the Laments

Native shrub planting

They are related to assassin bugs and as that name implies I guess, they eat other insects. The old “inject you with toxins that dissolve your soft tissue then I suck you dry” routine. More or less. Wikipedia has a bit on them here. Here you will find lots of info on assassin and ambush bugs at UK.

They are very well camouflaged as is demonstrated here.

I love their architecture. Kinda looks like a vehicle in a Mad Max movie.

I assume they were having sex. But human sex is complicated enough so I won’t say without a doubt that that was what was happening.

But I did read they mate in the fall, the female lays her eggs, they hatch in spring and the cycle begins anew. The timing would be pretty close.

Here’s some more pics of our pair of freaks. Enjoy.

A day visit to the Museum can easily include a stroll through 100 Acres no matter what you are wearing.  The pretty sundress and sandals I wore the night of the event fit in perfectly with the atmosphere of the party, but didn’t facilitate fully exploring the park. Something occurred to me as mucked up my sandals and watched a few women struggling around the park in high heels (ouch)…

A visit to 100 Acres is not your ordinary museum visit.

A photo I snapped while looking up at Type A’s Team Building (Align)

I’m already planning my next trip to 100 Acres and this time I’ll be prepared to explore the nature as well as the art.  Clothing choice is weather dependant, of course, but all terrain footwear is a must!  (An aside- If you dropped me on a deserted island and gave me a choice between a sweat-wicking, quick-drying, technical fabric outfit or an attractive, Soccer Pro companion… I’d pick the clothes every time.  Well… maybe.)

Here’s a quick rundown of the essentials I plan stuff in my backpack:

Sunglasses, sun screen, bug spray, camera, a picnic lunch, binoculars (for checking out birds), a bottle of water, a plastic bag for any trash I might produce (LNT!), a notepad and pencil, something to trade with Jessica and Michael out on Andrea Zittel’s Indianapolis Island, and maybe a book to enjoy.
My list reminds me more of gear requirements for summer camp than a museum trip.  But hey, I want to have everything I’ll need to spend a day going over, under, around and through the Park on an artful adventure.

Sara Tekula and Joe Imhoff, residents of Hawaii, started Plant a Wish with the planting of a native species of tree at their wedding, imbued with their guests well-wishes. Over time, they realized that this ‘Wish Tree’ continued to hold special meaning for them. They decided to embark on a journey to plant a native Wish Tree in the remaining 49 states with this wish:

The overall wish of the Plant A Wish project is for future generations to enjoy an abundance of biodiversity, native plants and trees, fresh air, and clean water.

They are also filming their journey, to be made into what I’m sure will be a moving documentary. I can’t wait to see how it comes out and what kinds of adventures they get themselves in to! They said every planting has had a different flavor, from small, single family plantings to huge affairs involving whole towns.

They selected the IMA, and 100 Acres in particular, because of the work that is being done in the Park already to fight invasive non-native plant species while planting local varieties, installing works of art, and educating our local communities. Our Horticulture Manager Chad Franer selected the appropriate native tree (an American Beech) and planting location (with enough distance from the beavers!)

We had a small ceremony for the planting, and the MAP Kids and some education staff joined us and contributed their wishes: some sentimental, some funny, some deeply moving. I also collected wishes from some of our fans on FaceBook and Twitter. They are all nourishing the roots of our American Beech as I type.

I thought for a while what I wanted to wish for…. what did I want to think of when I walked by this tree? The more I thought about it, I knew I could never untangle my memories of the thrill of my involvement in the opening the Park with the Wish Tree. So, my wish was simple: for Indianapolis to love 100 Acres as much as I have come to. Less than a month later and after a wildly successful opening, I would feel comfortable saying this has already come true.

Next, we placed our wishes under the tree, and rolled it in to place. We each helped to cover the root ball with some dirt. With Joe’s instruction, we also had to help ‘wake up’ the tree. Each of us took hold of the tree and we yelled together on the count of 3. Surprisingly, no one came running. This must be a horticulture secret and probably why I’ve killed all the plants I have ever interred. I’ll try it at home soon- I’m sure my neighbors will love it!

The Indiana Wish Tree is located here, along the path to Kendall Buster’s Stratum Pier, ready for your wishes as well. I hope that it will be big enough in a few years for having a picnic under. I want to thank Sara and Joe for their dedication to a thoughtful and important cause, and for selecting the IMA to be a part of it. If you would like to help them reach their goal of all 50 states, you can donate to their project or suggest a planting site.

Images courtesy of Sara Tekula. See more here.

(image via dave.lipper)

Of course, covered in mulch and mud and shovel in hand, I had no chance to whip out the camera and snap a shot. So, thank you Dave Lipper for this picture! Nonetheless, I stopped digging for the moment to enjoy the handsome fellow.

There are so many more beautiful birds in our 100 Acres. IMA’s photographer, Tad Fruits caught this Pileated Woodpecker in flight.

And this Blue Heron seems to have taken up residence along the banks of the lake.

What I would suggest to every visitor to the park is to sit a spell in Alfredo Jaar’s Park of the Laments (or anywhere for that matter!) and just listen. Listen to the different songs of our feathered friends. Maybe too, you’ll see a flash of color for an Oriole or Indigo Bunting!

Indigo Bunting (via Nature Nook)

Baltimore Oriole (via Harrier)

Planting for wildlife is quite the rage these days. And a fine thing it is. We need to do more to support the creatures that are essential for life itself. And look at the ornamental value of, say, an eastern bluebird perched on an orange butterfly weed creating ideal color echoes and contrasts. Or the think of economic value of our many pollinators. Sometimes though, the wildlife takes a bit too much. Many folks deal with the ravages of the whitetail deer for example. Then, there is the beaver. People near water can experience this toothy neighbor’s appetite.

Recent plantings at 100 Acres are fine examples. A few trees were planted near Kendall Buster’s Stratum Pier. The first night two cottonwoods were removed at ground level. An oak was girdled, its impending death certain. The next day the beaver came back to finish the job.

Hardware cloth was put around a remaining hackberry and cottonwood. The hackberry got the tall piece of wire. The cottonwood got the short piece.

It’s all part of the reality of working in and with nature. No making it rain when you want it. No making it sunny when you need it. No stopping the wind. So you adapt.

No hardware cloth. No tree.

Know beaver. Know hardware cloth.

Thanks to Tad Fruits for the photos in this blog.

Here at IMA TV, we do whatever it takes to bring you the story- even if it means putting our lives on the line. You heard me. Lives. Our most treacherous assignment yet involved us getting up close and personal with the IMA’s bee hive.

Soon after our arrival, Chad Franer, Manager of Horticulture (and part-time bee whisperer) put our minds at ease with some calming words and a bee smoker.

Check out the video below to learn more about beekeeping at the IMA. No bees (or Nuggets) were harmed during the making of this video.

Over the years I have been at the IMA I have greatly appreciated the efforts of our resident predators. Their valiant efforts help keep the populations of chipmunks, squirrels, voles, and mice from destroying everything. Admittedly I could use more help with the squirrels and chipmunks. There have been nesting hawks, visiting osprey, red-tail hawks that dropped by regularly, occasional owls. The year of the minks was great. You have never seen a really excited chipmunk until you’ve seen one that has spotted a mink headed its way.

The red foxes aren’t around every year. Or at least I don’t see them every year. It is usually a lone animal too. Some years they are quite tame. I should say “relaxed” around humans rather than tame.  I remember being able to get rather close to one below the greenhouse. He calmly groomed himself as I observed. I say “He” only because he displayed that arrogance of a male that knows he is “Lookin ‘ good”.  And the red foxes are a good looking group of animals. But they work hard too.

The red fox, Vulpes vulpes (sometimes Vulpes vulpes fulva), has adapted well to the intrusion of the humans and our destruction of traditional fox habitat through urbanization. Traditional habitat would be old fields (Hey! That’s us, Oldfields.), pasture and farmland, generally non-forested areas. Of course, perhaps our creation of old fields, pastures and farmlands increased the population since they prefer more open areas. Anyway, with the foxes’ adaptable nature it is not a real surprise to find them in urban areas like Indianapolis. They also eat about anything, which is great for survival in any situation. Their diet consists of mainly mammals, birds, insects, fruits (berries especially), and even grasses. I swear one day the kits (babies) were feeding on a fish of some sort. You can learn more about red foxes from the DNR and Nature Conservancy.

As I said, this year there is a female on site. Well, actually she’s not been seen for a couple weeks now. But hopefully she is sticking around. Best news yet? She has babies!

The first time I saw her there was only one kit. I was a little disappointed but then reminded myself that one was better than none. The next week there were four kits! I’ve no idea where those other three were during that first sighting. I don’t know where she has her den for birthing the kits. She was in the Interurban with them every time she was spotted but I’m sure she didn’t give birth there or at least not in that exact spot. Too much water would flow through that drain during rains. Both she and the kits would go inside the clay drain tile to hide.

The little ones were probably playing too.

She would eye me very carefully when I was trying to photograph her and the young. She became even more alert when she heard the sound of the zoom function on my camera.

A very protective mother there.

So wherever you are Mrs. Fox, thank you for choosing the IMA gardens for at least part of your home territory. I hope we see you and the kids often. Eat. Eat. You’re so skinny! What? My squirrel isn’t good enough for you? Nonsense! These are the best squirrels in the county. Only the best for my friends. Only the best for my Foxy Lady.

Yes, those are our planetary neighbors… hold your hand up at arm’s length and they’re just about three fingers apart. Trust me, it’s a whole different experience seeing this with your own eyes. Which you can, but binoculars might help if you’re in an area that suffers from light pollution.

Enjoy contemplating the universe!