I photographed the rain we had last weekend at the park. The flooding indicates the importance of selecting the right location for your Metal Dinosaurs. Understanding how the weather impacts your property will help you choose the best area(s) to place your dinosaur(s). Taking pictures of your property during such events provides a nice visual record to refer. Flooding is an issue for me to consider. I now have documentation of where the water pools and where it drains.
The last picture above is where my Raptor, Raphael stands and 4 solar rocks that provided his night-time illumination are completely submerged. I will need to raise Raphael’s base about 5 inches to keep his feet dry. I must remember to bring in or relocate the solar lights in that area during heavy rains. One of the great features of solar lights is the ability to move them in an instant. I am fortunate that my memory of where the flooding occurs was better when I selected sites for 5 dinosaurs on the other side of the driveway. The Triceratops, Christopher & Paul are enjoying the river as it flows by at a safe distance.
The water has caused some erosion which I am in the process of correcting with railroad ties. I will rework the area adjacent to the driveway with a plastic to keep out the weeds and gravel, later to be topped with river rock. This will provide a natural looking river during future storms. The railroad ties had been displaced by the flooding. I took advantage of the 4 to 5-inch water level after the storm to float them to their new more useful spot. I love it when I can repurpose something that had just been lying around in the yard.
In addition, I gathered up all the solar rock lights for cleaning and inspection. You should inspect your solar lights regularly for battery adjustment and spiders! I am amazed at how spiders can squeeze into the light & battery compartments. Their spider-webs and other stuff can disrupt the lights function. I have 7 sets of these solar rocks which I purchased at Bed Bath & Beyond (see post 6/05/2016 “Night Lighting for your Dinosaur – Dinosaurs in the Spotlight” for details on this great product).
There are numerous materials you can use as a base for your Dinosaur – Pavers, Bricks, Tile, Stone, Decorative Rock, Stepping Stones, etc… You can find what you need at Home Improvement Centers. Check out Building Material Companies too. I found they can have more of a selection of products and sizes. My post 8/03/2016 “Triceratops Family – Site / Foundation” provides some tips for creating the perfect Foundation for your dinosaur(s).
Depending on the size of your Dinosaur and/or Home, you may consider and indoor location. See post 5/21/2016 “Entry Sentry” for inspiration.
Have Fun!
Paul & Prehistoric Pals
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