The North Mountain Historical Society

Meeting: July 2002

JULY 15, 2002

The History Buffs met on Monday, July 15 at the Brass Pelican. Jim Vance chaired the meeting and asked each one to introduce themselves and tell where they were from. There were 41 present. After breakfast was served the minutes of the last meeting were read.

Jim then introduced Robert Sagar, a retired professor from Bloomsburg University where he had taught Biology and Ecology Courses. Professor explained to us that Ecology is the study of the relationship between organism and their environment. One person who influenced the public to think ecologically was Rachel Carson. In
her book "Silent Spring" she pointed out the danger of using the insecticide D.D.T. She was also important in establishing the observance of Earth Day in the nation.

Professor Sager also pointed out how well the American Indians adjusted to natural conditions and how much they did to maintain the ecology. Another interesting point made by Professor Sagar was the fact that bacteria were helpful in the world of nature. Can you imagine what the world would be like if nothing ever decayed or rotted up. Professor Sagar helped us to realize that we must work with nature to maintain a healthy ecology.

He then introduced Mrs. Tonia Sager who is also an ecologist and who, he mentioned, has an interest in snakes, even rattle snakes, in their proper place in the wild.
Mrs. Sagar in turn introduced her mother, a member of the Picture Rocks hiking club and an early influence in Tonia'a interest in ecology. Mrs. Sagar had several interesting handouts from Penn State and the Pennsylvania Game Commission. She told of the value of native plants and mentioned in particular the golden rod,
often falsely blamed for causing allergic reactions, the real culprit being the ragweed that often grows in the same area and comes in bloom at the same time. The golden rod is useful and Mrs. Sagar passed around swatches of material that had been colored with dye made from the goldenrod. She also mentioned that nothing is more nutritious than the common dandelion so disliked by all lawn owners.

Our thanks to the Sagars for an interesting and informative presentation. The next meeting will be August 19th at the Brass Pelican. Mr. Bob Maynes will
speak on the history of Greystone.