“Environmental steward” might sound like a fancy title, but really, it’s simply caring for the spaces and environment you call home and enjoy. What’s even better is that you don’t need special training or resources to make a real difference. All it takes is intention and a willingness to show up.
The environment is one of the core focus areas here at Forward Wayne County, and you might be asking yourself why. The answer is pretty simple: environmentally-friendly communities are vibrant, thriving communities. Investing in the health of our local spaces is essential to attracting talent, supporting residents, and building long-term prosperity here in Wayne County. Learn more about our environmental focus and local organizations leading the way here.
Get Outside and Clean Up
A simple yet visible way to care for your community is to help keep it clean. Organized cleanup days are a great way to make a real impact while connecting with your neighbors and fellow community members. Several community cleanup days took place this month, and a couple are still ongoing or happening early next month.
Cleanup for the Town of Hagerstown is happening now through May 2, and Richmond Parks and Recreation is hosting Park Clean-Up and Invasive Removal at Middlefork Cove on May 2. Find more information about local cleanup days in our recent Facebook post. And, while organized cleanup days are great, you don’t have to wait for them to clean up around you. Simply picking up litter on your daily walk makes a difference!
Utilize Local Recycling
Some communities offer recycling programs for residents. If this is something your community offers, take advantage of it! It’s important to keep in mind what’s actually accepted as part of the recycling program, so be sure to only include items that are allowed.
If recycling isn’t something offered in your community, Cope Environmental Center has a great resource page with information on local recycling. If you’re into gardening, consider composting your food scraps at home rather than throwing them away. It’s a win-win: fertilizer for your garden and reducing what goes to the landfill.
Share Your Stewardship Experience
Environmental stewardship can be contagious. Invite a friend or neighbor to participate in your local community cleanup day or visit your local park and take a few minutes to pick up any litter. These small actions can inspire them to start doing the same thing.
Being an environmental steward in your community doesn’t mean you have to do it all. It’s about actually doing something, consistently, and with care. Pick one idea mentioned above and give it a try! Then, invite someone to join you. These simple actions are how communities change for the better, one small action at a time.
