Peter Hayes

What if what we asked of nature is aligned with what nature can provide? We’re told that “travel broadens”.  My experience affirms the truth of this statement, but it also teaches me that the opposite is true.  Travel, when accompanied by observation, questioning, and reflection, can also do just

Digging Into the Central Role of Stories - As I steered my truck down the on ramp, it came to me; a minute earlier I’d given the gas attendant the wrong answer.  After sizing me and my truck up, he asked “you goin’ huntin’?”.  Merging onto the highway rising

One forest steward's view of the Portland Airport rebuilding project - There are many reasons why the current renovation and reconstruction at the Portland Airport is significant and worthy of attention. As a Coast Range forest owner and steward, viewing the project from a distance, I’m unfortunately

What might Oregon Ash teach us about our present and future? I can’t seem to shake Oregon ash; the trees fill my attention in ways that they never did before.  Travelling through our forests, I find myself noticing them – and often stop to admire and appreciate their details and

The greatest adventure of all is harmonious living with land; how is it going? Books are helpful.  I was reminded of this recently when a fascinating book prodded me to recall a chapter in my family’s life that had been back shelved in my memory by recent responsibilities.  The

How my Cousin Henry helped clarify a big, unmet need - How will we fill it? My cousin, Henry, is a determined and thoughtful person. I was reminded of this recently when he asked me the same question several times a year spread over three years.  His is a good