Earth Day fittingly falls in magical month of April
Spring is unquestionably my favourite time of year. I love watching this time of renewal; greening up of grasses, unfolding of new leaves and the appearance of colourful spring flowers.
The change in colour combined with blue skies and longer days create an innate desire in me to get outside as often as possible.
I’m fairly confident I’m not alone in this feeling of magical rejuvenation and motivation, as I see many more people walking or biking in recent weeks, despite the somewhat chilly temperatures.
So it’s probably not altogether surprising that Earth Day falls during the month of April.
Earth Day started in the U.S. on April 22, 1970, as an idea for a nation to focus on the environment.
Today, 192 countries and one billion people partake in Earth Day events that encourage change in human behaviour in order to create a healthy and sustainable environment. We all want a safe and healthy environment in which to live. Earth Day is a reminder that by working together, we have a better chance of making this goal a reality.
I believe one of the most important things we should do is demonstrate to youth that the actions taken on Earth Day should be part of our decision-making process every day.
It’s been incredibly heartwarming to see some of the same families return to our Summerland event year after year, but equally rewarding to see new faces.
I contacted a parent who has attended several Earth Day Celebrations with her daughters and asked her what inspires her to participate.
“I want my kids to be outside and appreciate what nature has to offer. It makes them excited about being outside,” stated Janine Jell. “It’s important and we will continue to participate each year.”
Jell added that the family revisits the planting sites to watch the trees and shrubs grow, and the children are seeing that they are having a positive impact.
Today’s youngest citizens are the ones who stand to lose (or gain) the most by the actions that we take this Earth Day. Consider joining us this Sunday from 10 a.m. to noon for Summerland’s 12th annual Earth Day celebration at the Adam’s Bird Sanctuary on Peach Orchard Road, across from Peach Orchard Campground.
There will be removal of invasive plants and planting of native trees and shrubs that would naturally be found in the area. Display booths will have information on local wildlife, invasive species, landscaping with native plants and more. Free gardening gloves will be provided to the first 30 volunteers. Enjoy getting your hands dirty for a good cause!
For information on invasive species go to our website: www.oasiss.ca or contact the Program Coordinator for the Okanagan-Similkameen, Lisa Scott, at 250-404-0115.