The interconnectedness and future of Jewell wetlands

Alex Nguyen, 10/18/2025

Recently, I've spent a whole day with my closest childhood friends, playing volleyball, eating food, having good conversations about life, walking through the mall, and just enjoying every single bit of time we have together. I realize that small moments like these filled with laughter, smiles, and happiness, all come from a sense of balance, care, and dependence of one another. It made me realize how much people depend on each other without thinking about it. From passing the ball, sharing food, listening to each other, or even giving advice. Every single action is interconnected. During my time at Jewell wetlands it made me think of nature in a similar way. I believe just like people, every part of the natural world depends on another to stay balanced and alive.

Time Lapse of us playing volleyball for 2 hours

Photo of our hangout

When i visited the wetlands, i noticed the same kind of silent connection. Every tree leans to provide shade and shelter for the squirrels and rabbits. The ducks swimming through the pond together, even the wind moving through the tall grass. Everything was flowing and all of it is connected.

Ducks swimming

The pond serves as a home for the ducks, frogs, and even turtles. The cattails that are on one side of the pond are hiding spots for smaller animals. Bees and insects pollinate flowers which leads them to becoming food for birds. Even the leaves on the ground serves a purpose for the interconnected area. They break down over time, turning into nutrients that eventually help new plants grow.

Cattails and leaves on the ground

The trees are just as connected, birds build nests in their branches, and squirrels collect seeds that later grow into new plants. Every living thing in the wetlands has a job that benefits others and themselves. When one part changes, everything else also changes. Most importantly, we as humans are also apart of the interconnected system. When we pick up trash, stay on the trails, or just appreciating the view of nature, we help keep the wetlands bright and healthy. It's small things like these that make a big difference over time.

The trees that provide food, shelter, and shade

I can see a future where the wetlands are still bright and healthy. With squirrels eating seeds, birds flying through the skies, and new generations of ducks swimming in the same pond. But the only way to do that is by sustaining its future. As the city grows its only expected for more foot traffic, and pollution. If we as a whole can protect the environment, and educate other, the wetlands will survive for many years.

Squirrel

In conclusion, I realize that everything is interconnected. From the time i spend with my friends to the quiet walks with nature. I believe that there's only balance when there's a understanding for care and dependence of all living things. Whether its people supporting one another or plants and animals relying on each other to survive. Just like how we sustain friendships, nature needs care, and effort to stay strong and healthy. I hope in the future people can start appreciating the beauty of the interconnectedness of the wetlands, and help protect its future.