COQUINAS are so very special. These small clams appear in myriad rainbow colors and patterns...even a "sun ray plaid!" At times there are only a few -- but such a joy when the receding surf reveals millions in a range of sizes and colors from deep purple or blue, brilliant red or yellow to pastel. They appear and then suddenly switch to a vertical position and dig in the sand, only to surface again with the next wash and collect densely in little swash channels, and in your freshly made footprints.

RED MANGROVE is referred to as the tree that "walks." It reaches out with "prop roots" which give it firm support along the shore to withstand the tide and wave actions. Sand accrues in and amongst the extensive root system which helps prevent shoreline erosion. "Walking Tree, Inc." representatives for Hal Stowers is named after, and pays tribute to, the beloved "Red Mangrove." Over the years all of Hal & B.J.'s boats have been named "Mangrove Momma."

 

"Beneath your limbs young fish frolic
Amongst your roots crabs climb
Within your foliage sea birds roost
Falling into the water, your leaves and seeds
are a source of food
Wind buffer and shoreline builder too --
Mangrove Momma, I'm talking about you."

HAL STOWERS 1977
From the suite of original lithographs entitled
"THE FLORIDA WILDERNESS SUITE"

SEA OATS are one of Hal's first and most recurring subjects:

 

Sea Oats Sun Flight

"Sea Oats in space your motions are endless
Always reaching -- a great wanderer
And sand dune builder
A visual delight shimmering in sun and breeze

Sea Oats in space your needs are simple --
A sandy base
An ocean place"

HAL STOWERS 1977
From the suite of original lithographs entitled
"THE FLORIDA WILDERNESS SUITE"