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MICHAEL DUNNE: I’m Michael Dunne. Despite the fact that it exists only a few 100 yards from one of the region’s largest malls and interstate five. Delta Ponds on the Willamette River in Eugene is a kind of natural oasis. At any given moment, one can see bald eagles, great blue herons, and so many birds and waterfowl that it feels miles away from town. But despite great measures to preserve and protect this restored wetland, climate change knows no boundaries. Today on the show a conversation with an ecologist from the city of Eugene to talk about this rare urban treasure. She’ll discuss how the ponds have changed over time, some naturally, like the seasonal red bloom currently occurring, but others more connected to manmade intrusion. It’s an in depth look at the continued shallowing of Delta ponds due to drought and climate change. Lauri Holts, who is an ecologist with the city of Eugene parks and open space department. Thanks so much for coming on and talking with us…