Ortega River, 2014br/Archival pigment printbr/16” x 24”br/The Ortega River parallels the St. Johns for many miles. South of Ringhaver Park, very little development is visible from the river. This residence is a notable exception. Its presence is portentous. A large dock, screened pool, and manicured lawn represent what money can buy. I was alarmed by the angry barking of two large dogs as I paddled past the compound. The preservation of un-developed shoreline is important. Once a dock and bulkhead establish a presence, the pristine nature of a creek is changed forever. The leafless cypress and large stalking birds are appropriate markers for an intrusion into our natural world.