Conservation Corner: Love Planet Earth!

  February is the month of love, and all the hearts, flowers, chocolates, and treats in every store make it easy to think about the people (and even pets) that we love. But what about our communities and Earth? While making plans to shower others with love this month, here are a few ways you can show Earth some love too:

• Meal Plan - Making a meal plan and shopping according to the plan helps reduce food waste (which also helps your wallet) because you purchase only what is on the plan.
• Compost Food Scraps - When preparing food, there often are pieces that are trimmed off, or sometimes you just can’t finish your plate. These items can be collected and mixed with grass clippings to begin a compost that later can be used to nourish your flower beds and gardens.
• Park and go inside - When visiting fast food restaurants, banks, or other businesses that offer a drive-through option, rather than allowing your car to idle needlessly, sending emissions into the air, park and go inside. If you decide to go inside, don’t forget to wear a face mask and properly distance (at least six feet apart) to protect against COVID-19.

Falling in love with Planet Earth doesn’t mean you give up all your modern conveniences, nor do you have to have a green thumb for making the best gardens. Just like falling in love with a person, falling in love with nature is appreciating its impact and presence in your life, even the ways of which you may not be aware.