COLUMN: Celebrate Earth Day 2018

THE NATURE OF THINGS COLUMN
By: 
Michele Olson
Jones County Naturalist

     Did you know the first official “Earth Day” was in 1970? Since then it has been a call for action to protect our planet’s land, water, air, and wildlife.

     During the month of April, and especially on Earth Day, local communities, schools, businesses, organizations, families, and individuals around the world take part in their own way by doing something beneficial for the health of our planet. “Earth Day” is a reminder of what we all need to do every day!

     A few simple things each of us can do that will make a huge difference include not littering and picking up litter wherever we find it. A new pastime in Europe making its way to the United States is “plogging” – picking up litter while jogging. It’s disheartening and depressing if you really pay attention to how much litter is in our backyards, schoolyards, roadsides, and neighborhoods. Unfortunately, it doesn’t take long to fill a garbage bag.

     Another large impact activity you can do is plant a native tree, shrub, or flower in your yard, on your school grounds, or at your business. Our butterflies, birds, insect pollinators, and wildlife will all thank you. This simple activity will also bring joy and aesthetic beauty for you, your neighbors, and visitors to your community. Green spaces have even been shown to help with healing and mental health.

     Other easy family projects could include installing a rain barrel or rain garden on your property, or building a bird house, bat box, or bird feeder. You could add low-flow showerheads, toilets, and faucet adaptors in your home, unplug unnecessary or unused electronics, and turn off water when you brush your teeth. Try riding your bike or walking to the store and use reusable bags when you go shopping. As you can imagine, these simple activities are just the tip of the iceberg and can all make a huge difference!

     If your family is looking for a fun activity to celebrate Earth Day 2018, join the “Earth Day Celebration & Volunteer Clean-Up Day” at Central Park Nature Center from 1 to 4 p.m. on Sunday, April 22. Find out more about the Central Park Lake Restoration Project and help clean up Jones County Conservation parks and areas by taking a short hike or go “plogging.” Bring your work gloves and wear clothes you can get dirty including shoes you can get muddy. While at the Central Park Nature Center, check out our spring exhibits, work a puzzle, test your spring wildflower IQ, enter our spring coloring contest, and enjoy light refreshments. Check in at the Nature Center to receive garbage bags and a highlighted map for litter clean-up efforts.

     Volunteers around the world will be joining their communities, schools, and organizations this month to help make our planet a better place for all and those to come. Earth Day is Every Day!

 

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