It’s hard to believe not only that we have the High Line within New York City, but also the number of people who are still unaware of it. Located along the West side, on 10th avenue and stretching 20 blocks is a fresh oasis in a city with a reputation needing one. The High Line, originally a commercial railroad, which became abandoned, was relatively free from human intervention. This allowed vegetation to grow “unmolested by human and train traffic” (Stalter 387). I’ve been to the High Line countless times before, however, I have never stopped to notice or wonder about the helpful pollinators that help make this happen.
A few handsome gentlemen and I were able to observe a variety of pollinators. From what we saw, bumblebees seemed to be most popular, though not dominant. We also observed other species of bees (honey, long-horned, and leafcutter), as well as butterflies, and other insects whose functions we were not completely educated on. We found a majority of the pollinators we witnessed from 23rd street up to about 27th street. Unfortunately, many were unapologetically photo-shy or too into their work.
Most of the anthropogenic interference was atmospheric rather than direct tampering. Stalter’s study was published in 2004, before the High Line’s redevelopment took a change in course. In Stalter’s study, he reports observing high vascular plant species. The species per area are compared with contrasting locations. These include islands that receive high human traffic (Ellis Island) and more isolated ones (Hoffman Island). Some of the factors he credits the vast diversity to are in fact committed by humans, albeit unintentionally. Countless conditions have played a part in the vegetation of the High Line. As a relatively undisturbed environment which high sun exposure, the High Line may be a special case. Stalter explains that “xeric succession on the abandoned High Line may have been altered by the rate at which soil forms or accumulates…the growing and dying of the mosses, lichens and grasses added organic matter to the soil” (389).
The Friends of the High Line have made it their mission to preserve the High Line. In a city with high real-estate value, letting nature run wild was not an option. A happy compromise has been reached with The Friends allowing nature to flourish, yet keeping it in check. The vegetation of the High Line has been chosen by The Friends to recognize the wild pioneers that had colonized it.
I definitely believe that the High Line embodies Marris’ idea of a rambunctious garden. As mentioned, human interference, such as transporting seeds and new species through visitation, can help explain the diversity. Up to this point, we have mostly been learning anthropogenic changes affecting nature. In this case, nature and humans are beneficial to each other. The High Line is living on a man-made structure and being tended by man. In return, the High Line has spurred development to its surrounding areas, giving back to its neighbors.
