Canada geese in a new meadow

The Canada geese are pairing up and squat for long periods of time very near the roadway. So, I took my chance, stopped, put the emergency flasher on, rolled the window down, and tried to capture a few before they scooted off.
This new meadow they love to be in was a soccer field and a beginning community garden two or three years ago. But the river runs through it a few times a year, over flows, and Nature takes back this rich spit of land. 

I have enjoyed watching the river changing its flowing pattern to something like it originally was before the "next wonder of the world" was attempted over 100 years ago. (I should look up that date.) There was a plan to connect the Great Lakes by canals to come down to New York City and out to the Atlantic Ocean. Then barges could bring wheat and other crops from the rich farming north out to warehouses around New York City. The Chenango river was re-routed and straightened out, barges and the mules that pulled them were brought in. It was hugely expensive and the builders were so very proud of this "8th Wonder of the World."
Alas, the railroad came in and delivered produce and people faster. I think within three years of completion of the canal.
They had to try to put the river back . Then built the two lane highway to move produce and people by truck & auto. That is the road I took this photo from: Route 12.
The train can no longer come through Oxford after a great flood nearly 10 years ago. The tracks are gone. Bridges that were taken away have been rebuilt. No barges and no trains... and farming is at a standstill, too. But the Chenango River just keeps moving along finding its way down to meet the Susquehanna and the, go to the sea.
When in flood it goes right to the highway in this meadow. If the river overflows, it is from here. Either way wet or boggy the geese like it. These Canada geese live here year round. They have never been to Canada, as far as I know.
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A perfectly splendid day has come out of a questionable early morning when we had a Frost Warning. 30ºF that's below 0ºC. The fog from the river protected the little flowers and plants. I live a street away from the Chenango River.
The heady scent of the lilacs invites me back out to the garden! Hope you are enjoying your day... or evening.


I have not yet planted very many tender green seedlings out but this evening I shall. Then the Wars of the Slugs shall begin in earnest.