Thanksgiving, a bird's eye view

While traditionally this seasonal holiday time reflects on ‘thankfulness’ for abundance of crops harvested and the general health and welfare of our communities; nevertheless, a present-day question is, ‘Are we, as communities, contributing to the eco-health or demise of our Nation’s landscape?’

Through participating in a series of Community meetings related to reclassifying wetland areas from ‘flood plain’ to ‘hazard area’, I listen as person after person described significant change in the quantity of their area’s flood waters, areas flooding that never previously flood before; and even, not once or twice but numerous times, raw sewage seep into surrounding creeks, streams and rivers. So, as the present-day caretaker for a ‘generational family owned property’ once labeled the Bolton Estate located in Henrico County Virginia, I am alarmed.

 

excessive water runoff from nearby properties

When stable, this property’s wetland areas serve as host sites for a variety of wildlife, ranging from fox to the American eagle. In fact, historical records indicate the area’s central lake to be a natural pool; but overtime, it was extended to support more than 500 acres of agriculture activity and a second time, to support outdoor active recreation facilities. Nevertheless, due to impact of surrounding urban/suburban development, the area is no longer usable for fresh-water recreation. So, you see, I share with the wildlife a ‘bird’s eye view’ of the impact of urban/suburban runoff and pollution. I’ve watched a once pristine spring-feed wetland become a dumping ground; still, it is one of my community's few remaining green corridors – habitats.

Nevertheless, similar to other areas, it does not have to remain a dumping ground, a hazard area. There are alternative land use strategies which not only recover but prevent future negative impact. First and foremost, there is – related to this property - a County of Henrico Virginia sponsored creek restoration program. Still, for it to work effectively, other strategies need to be implemented; for examples, a rethink of how land is developed, use of ‘green build’ construction alternatives; and perhaps, more importantly, awareness of the eco-consequences of present-day life-style choices.

While I cringe at the fact we label 21st century green spaces hazard; perhaps, it is an excellent first step. For, it should be the beginning of evangelistic awakenings: a challenge to focus on implementing forms of green land use that not only lessen the impact of urban/suburban development but recover the eco-health of communities. Individually and collectively we do have pivotal eco opportunities: the option of choosing to implement green land use strategies which enable eco-healthy landscapes or continue down a path of present-day techniques that contribute to the decline of community eco-systems.

So, while many view the holiday season as a time to celebrate family and host feasts, I want to be thankful for the world’s natural beauty. Together, let’s make a commitment to ‘green’ America’s landscape - move ‘hazard areas’ from eco-weak to eco-chic, create a legacy of eco healthy urban, suburban as well as rural green spaces. And, perhaps one day, the birds will look down and think, ‘Whew, those humans, they had a close call; but, thankfully recognized the error of their ways!’ For additional tips and strategies, visit web site TheWrightScoop .