You may think it is difficult to be a good environmental steward — “those 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. 

Here are some “A 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 “do” work on that land. The more you learn about your place, the more your perspective will change and your level of care increase.  You will begin to feel more “at 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.