Not too far from our campsite on Greenough Lake, there were small pink flowers in clusters, which are called Rabbitfoot Crazyweed, AKA “Locoweed” (Oxytropis lagopus), from the Fabaceae family. They are known for causing problems for livestock because they contain swainsonine - an alkaloid that disrupts cellular functions -, which can cause abnormal behaviors.
It was in an area that I would consider like a moist forest, Unlike the place we’re in now - Makoshika State Park. The Greenough Lake Campground was next to a fast (and chilly!) creek and a beautiful lake with mountains all around.
Similarly to Elephant’s Head, I imagine that the O. lagopus is not very well appreciated, especially in farms or any places with livestock, as they can create monetary loss for the breeders/farmers.
In a sense, I feel that plants such as this show the importance of breaking hierarchies, and making kin instead, as Donna Haraway stated. This preserves multiple species instead of eliminating them due to their lack of visible and palpable value to humans. Intrinsic value should be cherished, just as diversity should.
Journal entry by Deborah
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