🌿 River Rooted: Plant of the Week – Whiplash Willow 🌿 (Salix lasiandra) Meet the Whiplash Willow—a fast-growing native that thrives in the wet soils along rivers and streams, including the Jordan River. Known for its narrow, flexible branches and glossy leaves, this willow is as graceful as it is important. With deep roots that grip the soil, Whiplash Willows help prevent erosion and keep riverbanks stable. Their quick growth and resilience also make them a favorite in restoration efforts. 🌱 Where to Spot It: Look for this willow in riparian zones, wetlands, and along moist lowlands near the river. Its sleek branches often sway with the wind—true to its “whiplash” name. 💡 Did You Know? The Whiplash Willow is often used in streambank restoration because of its ability to grow quickly and hold soil in place. It’s nature’s erosion control at work! 💧 Next time you're near the water, keep an eye out for this elegant native doing big work behind the scenes. #RiverRooted #PlantOfTheWeek #JordanRiverCommission #WhiplashWillow #SalixLasiandra #NativePlants #LoveYourWatershed (fb)

🦊 Wildlife Wednesday 🦊 Say hello to the red fox (Vulpes vulpes)—a clever, adaptable omnivore that calls forests, deserts, mountains, and even city parks home! 👂 Did you know? Red foxes have incredible hearing—they can detect low-frequency sounds like rodents digging underground! Their iconic bushy tail isn’t just for looks: it helps them balance, stay warm in the winter, and even communicate with other foxes. These stealthy mammals are omnivores, feasting on everything from small animals to fruits and insects. Their adaptability has helped them thrive across Utah, including areas near the Jordan River. 🌄 Whether you’re hiking a trail or strolling your neighborhood, keep an eye out—you might spot one of these wily wanderers at dawn or dusk! #WildlifeWednesday #JordanRiverWildlife #RedFox #UrbanWildlife #VulpesVulpes (fb)