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Becoming Good Stewards | Earth Day
Written By: Deena Bouknight | Issue: 2021/04 – April
If the last 12 months have taught us anything, it’s that Nature demands our respect and our care. Find a way to celebrate Earth Day, April 22.
Batting Cleanup during a past year’s Plateau Pick-Up, it’s the All Star team of (L to R) David Bock, Steve Mehder, Hilary Wilkes, Mary Dotson, John Dotson, and Pat Taylor.
Earth Day, officially recognized on Thursday, April 22 this year, is actually considered throughout the month of April. And for some people, appreciating and protecting the earth is a way of life. The beauty of the mountains, native plants, wildlife, and outdoor nature pursuits are all worth preserving!
Local organizations and individuals are working to make sure Earth Day 2021 does not become overshadowed by the “C” word. The Village Green in Cashiers, Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust, Highlands Biological Foundation, Chambers of Commerce, and more offer activities on some scale in order to draw attention to the many ways the environment can be protected.
Highlands Chamber of Commerce is hosting its annual Plateau Pick-Up. Previously known locally as the Gorge Road Clean-up, the project now includes Highways 64, 106, 28 and the downtown Highlands streets. Interested volunteers can meet at Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park at 8:30 A.M. April 17 to get area assignments.
Winter Gary, communications and events coordinator at Highlands Biological Foundation, said everyone can do their part for the earth by becoming involved in ongoing clean-up efforts, keeping property, neighborhoods, and favorite hiking spots picked up, and committing to recycling, repurposing, and reusing.
Together, The Village Green and Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust are co-hosting a speaker series called Village Nature Series, which presents experts on such topics as wildlife, habitats, conservation, and local cultural heritage.
“Traditionally, these events are held at The Village Green Commons in Cashiers on the last Tuesday of every month during the summer season,” explained Sarah Pursel education coordinator, Highlands-Cashiers Land Trust. “However, at this time, we are bringing these presentations to you virtually!”
The first in the series, scheduled for April 27th at 5 P.M., honors Earth Day. “Restore Our Earth” is presented by Sonya Carpenter, co-owner of Canty Worley and Company. Her focus is on nurturing life with backyard plants and wildlife. Register for the event by emailing Ann Self at [email protected].
“Let’s celebrate Earth Day by focusing on choices we can make for a better world,” encouraged Pursel.
For a deeper perspective on earth and our relationship with it, consider the programs offered throughout the year at The Mountain Retreat. Many of them reflect the beauty and majesty of our natural heritage, and all are deeply informative. For more information, visit https themountainrlc.org.
