If we encounter a clover flower during our mundane daily rounds, we sometimes don't give it a second thought. However, change the context, and the blossom suddenly seems like a jewel. That was definitely the case this past weekend at Yellowstone, when I found several of the flowers blooming next to a nameless hot spring. This was the hottest and driest early September I've ever encountered in the Park! On account of the heat and dryness, there were very few wildflowers blooming. Evidence of the regional drought was manifested as well at nearby Jackson Lake - in the Tetons - which had a marina that was completely dry due to a 39-foot vertical drop in the water level. Because of the drought, the water went to the Idaho potato farmers, following an agreement that the National Park Service has with the agriculture industry. In any case, the lack of wildflowers made this pink clover appear even more spectacular, especially in contrast to the blue, white and yellow hues of the hot spring!
Photo: Wild clover and hot spring; Fairy Falls Trail, Yellowstone National Park, WY; July 31, 2013
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