Jim Valentine on Real Estate
We are most fortunate in Northern Nevada to live in the mountains.
Regardless of how “civilized” we think we are making our human habitat here with roads, homes, shopping centers, etc., we are often reminded that it is still the domain of Mother Nature. It is the challenge of living in the mountains that is much of the character and pleasure of living here, but once in awhile she can show her fury and we are humbled in to our proper position of respect and awe for her magnitude.
This week, we couldn’t see our wonderful mountains in any direction due to the smoke of the fires that are causing several communities in the region distress and discomfort. Our gallant firefighters are waging ferocious battle and keeping structure loss to a minimum so far. The Tamarack Fire near Markleeville has impressed observers with its intensity and 50- to 100-foot tall flames, whirlwinds and all kinds of fire vocabulary antics that only big dry trees can create. We try to carry on our normal business but it isn’t easy when friends are suffering and Nature is being nature.
Similar Mother Nature mega-experiences come when we see raging floods in our rivers, water coming down from the mountains when heavy rain falls in the collective system of the mountains and shoots out into the valleys as a flash flood. Similar to knowing that if you live in trees you have the chance of loss to fire, living in the floodplain one also has advanced warning as to the possibility of disaster. While it might be a once in 500 years event, it only takes that 1/500 time to happen on your watch and your life will be forever changed.
Mormon crickets and rabbits also provide evidence of the power of nature. When the Mormon crickets are so abundant that cars can’t maintain their drivability on the interstate Mother Nature has once again shown us that we are but a sideshow in her production. We’ve seen rabbits so abundant in bumper years that they just run out of the sagebrush into the side of our vehicle while we are showing remote property. This isn’t an annual event, just as fires and floods aren’t, but it does occur.
The lack of precipitation affects us in different ways in Northern Nevada. Of course, there is our precious alfalfa crop and cattle production that takes a hit when the water isn’t there to grow the feed, but we are also dependent on snow for the production of our ski resorts. No snow and we are lacking the green of the tourist money just as we are lacking the green of the alfalfa. Snow is what makes “Nevada green.” We are in the midst of a severe drought now which is also contributing to the frequency and severity of the regional fires.
The lack of water also brings fleas. Yes, you read that right. For years we all heard and said that we don’t have fleas in Northern Nevada, but in a drought situation your animals can bring home fleas. Another phenomenon of Mother Nature adjusting her creation.
We live in a wonderful area full of beauty and wonderful things, but it is subject to change and we must be ready to embrace the changes and adapt. You can’t fight Mother Nature, but you can respect her and appreciate what she delivers. We are, after all, imposing our will in her playground … to the extent she will allow us to do so. Remember, if you don’t bend you’ll break. Adjust as circumstances dictate and enjoy the moment for it too shall be a memory in time and you will remember these smoke filled days, and all other brushes with disaster you encounter along the way, as “the good ole days.”
Please don’t exhibit schadenfreude during trying times, rather show your love and support to those unfortunate ones that are more impacted by the event than you are. After all, some day it could be you and we are all on this ride of planet Earth together. “Love one another right now.” (JCY)
When it comes to choosing professionals to assist you with your real estate needs … Experience is Priceless! Jim Valentine, RE/MAX Realty Affiliates, 775-781-3704. dpwtigers@hotmail.com
