Lhtnup's photostream  

With or without leaves, there is a stateliness to big trees that calls to me.

Talking Water Gardens, Albany, Oregon

Nikon D700 + Nikkor 85mm f/1.4G at f/5.6, 1/1000 sec, ISO 200

he shouted. But no one seemed to care. He probably should have honked instead. Silly goose.

Following mid-January rains, water from the Willamette and Calapooia Rivers flooded Monteith Riverfront Park and Bryant Park.

The Calapooia separates the two parks and flows into the Willamette just past the upper right edge of the frame. Its mid-stream current reflects as the light streaks across the upper part of the photo.

The yellow structure to the left is the back of the stage at Monteith Riverfront Park from which free summer concerts are performed. The sloping lawn in front of the stage makes a natural ampitheater. The building in the upper right houses restrooms for Bryant Park. Albany hosts regional softball tournaments at Bryant Park's huge ball field complex.

Albany, Oregon

Nikon D700 + Micro-Nikkor 105mm f/2.8G VR at f/5.6, 1/500 sec, ISO 200

Though down from its crest by several feet when this photo was made, the Willamette River still boiled and churned for days after drenching rain caused area flooding. High water also caused an increase in mud and the quantity and size of river flotsam. Large logs and branches, even whole trees, were swept downstream.

This photo shows a major log jam pinned against the center pier of the railroad trestle. Most of the jam is under the surface. Projecting half way across the channels on either side, it is a serious hazard to boaters.

The small dark structure atop the center of the center span is a raised platform designed to support an osprey nest. I didn't see birds in the nest when I made this photo but I have seen them in the past.

The Cascade Mountains rise in the distance.

Willamette River, Albany, Oregon

Nikon D700 + Micro-Nikkor 105mm f/2.8G VR at f/5.6, 1/640 sec, ISO 200

One of two along the city's riverfront path, this pier is a pleasant spot from which to watch the river flow by.

Heavy rains in the days preceeding this photo caused area flooding and the stranding of trees and branches against pilings. The water was also unusually rich with mud.

Willamette River, Albany, Oregon

Nikon D700 + Micro-Nikkor 105mm f/2.8G VR at f/5.6, 1/320 sec, ISO 200

Though a cinch in one respect, this probably would not make the most well-received gift one could offer for Valentine's.

Albany, Oregon

Nikon D700 + Micro-Nikkor 105mm f/2.8G VR at f/5.6, 1/320 sec, ISO 200