You may think it is difficult to be a good environmental steward — β€œthose people” do serious research, studies and projects that require special tools and skills. But you will be surprised to discover that a few very basic tools open up worlds of wonder–leading you to be a good steward of Creation.Β 

Here are some β€œA Rocha trade secrets” for starting your quest towards better lives for you and all Creation:

#1 | NAMING: Learn the full names of 3 trees in your neighbourhood

Beginner

  • Sit by a window in your home that looks out to some trees.
  • Research the trees you think you know by finding their unique full name.
  • Study the unique features of the bark, leaves and branch structure.

Advanced

  • Find a field guide for tree identification, by going to your local library.
  • Discover 3 native trees in your area, by reading the guide.
  • Locate these three native trees in your neighbourhood park, forest or creek.

#2 | CONNECTING: Find out how the water flows

Beginner

  • Identify your local watershed boundaries.
  • Learn 3 of the creek names that feed into your watershed.
  • Send a thank you note to groups doing work to conserve your watershed.

Advanced

  • Discover the location of hidden water features in your neighbourhood.
  • Learn 3 key species who depend on your watershed (humans is too easy).
  • Send a thank you note to groups doing work to conserve your watershed.

#3 | PLACING: Research the history of the land

Beginner

  • Discover 1 geographically unique feature and why it is there.
  • List the various people groups who inhabited the land before you.
  • Learn about one indigenous word related to the local landscape.

Advanced

  • Study how the glaciers shaped the landscape.
  • List the major eras of change related to the landscape.
  • Learn about one indigenous story related to the local landscape.

We start at this level of learning because it’s so important to make a real, tangible connection to the ecology of a place before you can begin to β€œdo” work on that land. The more you learn about your place, the more your perspective will change and your level of care increase. Β You will begin to feel more β€œat home” and your life will be better because of this connection.

You can learn more, with A Rocha.

Come try out your new Creation Care tips at Cedar Haven Eco-Centre:
All welcome every Saturday at 10am for hands-on stewardship, hikes and good ol’ time in nature.