NPR: October 4, 2009

Islands are often the playgrounds of imaginary scientists, from Dr. Moreau to the researchers on the TV show Lost. But this place is real: an island where every single plant species has had its DNA analyzed and cataloged. Plummers Island is just on the edge of the Potomac River and holds the distinction of being "the most studied island in North America." That's according to John Kress, a botanist at the Smithsonian Institution. "There's been more biologists out here looking at everything from worms to flowers to birds, mammals, snails ... than any other spot on the East Coast," he says. They've been studying this place for a century, but Kress brought us here to talk about one project in particular: a database of DNA markers that could potentially revolutionize the way we understand plants.                                                                                                                                                                                                     
It is an exciting time. Soon we will be able to identify plant species by their DNA codes. Of course, we need DNA testing to figure out exotic plants, not to distinguish the rose bush from hawthorn. In addition, Kress reminds us about the stunning diversity of creation, and about the opportunities to get to know and admire it first hand. It is this bigger picture, what the Self-builders call Romanticism, which brings happiness to the heart and creates passionate connections--connections which convert life from mere existence into a thrilling adventure. All of us may not have the DNA barcode yet in their hands, but we do have the opportunity to get out and get to know the beautiful universe first hand. So let's get out there and get to know our green friends.