… and What next after Earth Month
by Jo Doumbia
What comes to mind for you when you think about spring in Virginia? Is it the weather? The scenery?
The beautiful blooms that appear in our gardens and throughout the woods?
Or, is it perhaps the unmistakable sound of singing birds? From the Eastern bluebird to the Northern cardinal and American robin, there’s no shortage of sweet bird songs to serenade us. The trees are budding and ephemerals continue blooming. Such a time of optimism and joy.
While being outside, you may have been catching nature at its most exuberant: listening for warblers in the treetops and spring peepers near vernal pools; watching the fine art of nest making, and/or looking for new life emerging from the soil. Explore on your own or join one of many events that celebrate the wonders of Spring.
Honoring the earth in its April Month was not only a time to celebrate all that nature does for us, but a reminder to keep our ongoing commitment about taking action to protect it. We ought, tirelessly, to continue raising awareness of environmental issues and promoting actions that protect the planet; as individuals, organizations, and communities can work together to secure a greener future.
Each one of us has the power to help ameliorate the accelerated rate of species extinction and loss of habitat diversity. Human activities such as deforestation, pollution, overfishing, and climate change are major drivers of this crisis. We can be active participants in addressing this crisis through conservation efforts, sustainable practices, and policy interventions.
Anyone can play a role in creating positive change. Whether you volunteer your skill set to FACS or any other organization, or get your hands in the dirt at a local restoration or cleanup event, there are numerous ways for you to get involved!