Problems, Predicaments, and Technology

  Rough Ridge Trail in North Carolina

If you look closely at the area just slightly to the left of center in the picture above, the same area is enlarged below: Rough Ridge Trail, North Carolina

Rough Ridge Trail in North Carolina I am currently on a trip as I start this article and enjoying the cool weather. It has been unseasonably cool for this time of year but I can't complain because I'd rather have the cool weather over the other extreme of too warm, which is increasingly looking likely for the remainder of this year.  The first part of this trip is taking in the Blue Ridge Parkway, although it is still not fully open yet. Worse still, most of the attractions along the route are also not open. Something unusual that I have never witnessed before; all the picnic grounds/areas that we have passed so far are closed off. The only ones open were located near the start of the parkway in Virginia. I don't know if this is because of government shutdowns, the elimination of so many park jobs, or what the issue is. I'm used to various attractions like restaurants and campgrounds being closed for the winter, but in previous years, picnic areas were open even when it...

The Mississinewa Dam

  Philpott Lake, Virginia, as seen from the Visitor Center of Philpott Dam

Atlantic Ocean, Kure Beach, North Carolina

  Lake Murphysboro State Park, Illinois

  Mash Fork Falls, Camp Creek State Park, West Virginia

  I have written in here several times that no other form of energy can match fossil hydrocarbons in their energy density except for uranium, but uranium requires a nuclear reactor to be utilized; something that cannot be carried by hand (like a container of gasoline can). Oil is especially important not only because of its density, but also because of its portability and versatility. No other form of energy can be transported and utilized as easily as oil. Most of us are familiar with oil in the form of gasoline or diesel, but perhaps also in kerosene or fuel oil as well. Natural gas is actually higher in density, but requires slightly different storage and engines. This portability and versatility explains why so many power tools such as lawn mowers, chainsaws, spin trimmers, lawn edgers, and more are powered by gasoline. The same advantages are also why most cars, trucks, tractors, agricultural machines, mining equipment, and roadbuilding equipment all use gasoline or diesel as ...

People enjoying the scenery at Bridal Veil Falls near Provo, Utah, on US 189

  East Fork Campground, Durbin, West Virginia

  Ausable Chasm, New York

  People enjoying the fantastic view atop Whiteface Mountain in New York

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