Walking Blues?

Diseases and invasive species spread and evolve in myriad ways. There's a good chance you've heard that plant shipments, mulch, firewood and boats can sometimes play a role. The permutations are plentiful. In a sense, it’s Pandora’s Box for modern society. Even the shoes you wear can get into the act.

The first time I became aware of this is when I had the opportunity to play a round of golf at the Vineyard Golf Club in Edgartown on Martha’s Vineyard.

The club takes pride in being organic. They don’t use synthetic pesticides, herbicides or fertilizers. In fact, that’s the only reason they were allowed to build the course some 8 years ago. I suspect they use every trick in the book and probably a few of their own invention. They may be the only truly organic golf course in the United States.

When I showed up at the club, they asked for my golf shoes. When I asked why, they patiently explained that they needed to clean and disinfect them so that I didn’t introduce any intruders. They relented only when I explained that it wasn’t really necessary because the shoes were brand new and had never been worn.

As a family whose yard has been organic for at least 24 years (17 credited to the previous owner), we understand. It’s not the easiest path to take.

Recently, I read in the Portland Oregonian (www.oregonlive.com/oregonian/) that fishermen who use waders with felt-soles can spread microorganisms from one stream, pond or lake to another. Apparently, the microorganisms can survive in the felt.

Modern modes of transportation get us quickly from place to place but we need to keep in mind how important it is to take common-sense precautions. It seems a trivial thing but the consequences of ignorance (or, worse, indifference) can be substantial.


WR