Social distancing in the great outdoors
As editor of Saving Land, I receive a lot of communications from land trusts — stories, blogs, enewsletters, event announcements — and more. But this message from Wallkill Valley Land Trust in New Paltz, New York, came at exactly the right time with exactly the right message. It began with a question tying into what's happening in the world right now:
"Dreading social distancing?"
Then an answer:
"Why not enjoy it instead on our protected lands, nature preserves and recreational trails. Our open space is your personal space."
This is a message that comes uniquely from the land and from those who protect it — but it's a message to people everywhere that can be tailored to wherever there are land trusts doing the important work of protecting land:
"Breathe some fresh air, listen to the birds, spread your arms wide (plenty of room!), get some sun and be grateful for this beautiful region we live in. [Wallkill Valley Land Trust] invites you to hike, bike and play on some of our spectacular places, such as the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail — a safe space for us all."
So help get the word out: Being in nature — within guidelines set by public health officials — can be an enjoyable way to practice social distancing. And land trusts offer plenty of places to get outside.