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Seeking the Healing Power of Nature on Earth Day

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In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks.
-John Muir


In 1970, millions of Americans pledged to start a movement to be better stewards of our planet Earth. As we prepare to celebrate the fiftieth anniversary of the now global movement called Earth Day, we are faced with an unprecedented reality. 


While typical day to day life for many humans is on hold, nature doesn’t stop. The birds continue their annual migration and breeding season, our streams are flowing with spring rains, and the seeds in our greenhouse and the grasses and wildflowers in our native meadows are bursting with new life. Among the earth’s spring renewal, humans are discovering the nurturing, restorative power of nature. A simple walk through the woods or fields provides us with respite and peace. 


This miracle felt especially true over Easter weekend as I explored Ashbridge Preserve with our nine-year-old twin grandchildren, Grace and James. After being quarantined indoors for three weeks, their joy in being free in the outdoors, skipping the Ridley Creek stepping stones and discovering the emerging spring plants and creatures was a palpable gift to hold and treasure. 


While the earth has the power to heal humans, we in turn, have the power to help heal the earth. Willistown Conservation Trust’s holistic approach to land protection, with a focus on the connections among land, farm, birds, and water, protects native habitat and provides open space for our earth to heal itself.


Even as new studies show that grassland bird populations have declined by over 50% since 1970, hearing the song of the returning Eastern Meadowlark fluting across our preserved grassland habitat at Kirkwood Preserve gives me great hope. The newly sown peas at Rushton Farm are showing their first green tendrils of life and the skunk cabbage at Rushton Woods Preserve has completely unfurled. The first trillium have emerged at Ashbridge Preserve, dotting the woods with cheerful color.

As you think about Earth Day this year, I encourage you to seek out nature to find inspiration, healing and hope. Just as the earth renews each spring, we will resume our our regular lives once again, perhaps transformed with a deeper connection to our planet earth. 


With warmest regards,
Bonnie

Update Regarding COVID-19 (Coronavirus)

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Last updated 6/8/20

Our hearts go out to all of our friends, visitors and supporters during this unprecedented public health crisis. We want to remind you of the incredible gift of nature that 40 years of local conservation in the Willistown area has made possible for you and your families to enjoy.

Being outside in nature can reduce your stress, and exercise can boost your immune system. We encourage you to come visit our nature preserves, Ashbridge Preserve, Kirkwood Preserve, and Rushton Woods Preserve, for a walk in nature, some fresh air, and a break from the relentless news.

We ask that you follow CDC guidelines at our nature preserves by maintaining social distance from other visitors, even on the trails. And if the parking lot at the preserve is full, please come back another time.

We currently have a variety of virtual events available for your participation. Check our Events Calendar for more information and registration. As our county moves into the yellow, and then green phase, we will closely monitor available guidance, and hope to offer an updated selection of programs and events celebrating our environment and the many people who work with us to advance conservation and sustainability when it is safe to do so.

Thank you for your continued support. . . and get outside!