Cecilia Garcia-Linz, Michigan Chapter Outings Chair
Recently, I attended several webinars touting the health benefits of nature. In each discussion, facilitators asked participants what spending time in nature means to them. The responses varied from visiting a national park to relaxing in the backyard. It is refreshing to see the perception of nature evolving. Those who do not consider themselves "outdoorsy" can feel disconnected and intimidated to venture into natural areas, but spending time with nature does not necessarily involve hiking deep into the wilderness. As the Sierra Club continues to improve equitable access to the outdoors for all, we are highlighting simple ways to enjoy the living world around us.
Sierra Club’s Nearby Nature initiative “engages youth and communities to explore, enjoy, and protect parks, waters, and natural spaces in and around urban areas.” The approach is three-fold: “service projects and outings, leadership development, and advancing public policies and partnerships that serve to break down barriers to getting outdoors.” Sierra Club Michigan is excited to participate in this initiative by sharing and creating opportunities for Michiganders to explore the ecosystems right outside our doors. City birdwatching, bug hunting in your yard or a local park, a field trip to a vernal pool and participating in a river cleanup are just a few of the adventures that await kids and their adults. Last week I was walking near the chapter office downtown when I noticed a group of kids watching a pileated woodpecker eating bugs from a tree stump that had fallen during one of last winter's big storms.
We want to hear about your Nearby Nature experiences. Do you have a favorite nature spot or activity to share? Please hop over to our Facebook page and share a photo with a caption.