The hydrant is in stark contrast to the natural environment surrounding it, due to its placement in the left side of the photograph. The "empty" space of the ground and plants supplies this contrast.
This photograph has the ability to "say" something. For example, it can be analyzed in such a way that there is a conflict between man and nature (thus, the hydrant surrounded by plants). It can also represent urban decay. Both cases are brought to the viewer by the contrast created by the Rule of Thirds.
The hydrant is centered in the photograph, but allows for examination of its lovely symmetry. The environment around the hydrant doesn't matter nearly as much as the hydrant itself in this photograph.
This photograph speaks to the artful design of the hydrant (as corny as that may sound). Shapes are readily apparent, as is the symmetry, mentioned earlier.
Update:
I have learned, however, that this does, in fact, conform to the Rule of Thirds. My fellow Utatans say (and I agree) that the two vertical lines follow the outline of the hydrant, while the top horizontal line divides the white top from the color change of the body, bringing focus to the white front part of the hydrant. Being able to center and still conform to the Rule of Thirds is a new one for me! :)