You may think it is difficult to be a good environmental steward — βthose peopleβ 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 βA Rocha trade secretsβ 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 itβs so important to make a real, tangible connection to the ecology of a place before you can begin to βdoβ 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 βat homeβ 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.