We desperately need trees for our survival. They are crucial for reducing toxins and purifying the air. They give shelter and food to so many creatures, including us. They protect the soil from erosion and pollution build up; which helps to protect our water system. They create micro ecosystems for special species to thrive in. Aesthetically, they create breathtaking sceneries that allow us to find solace in. The list can go on…

It’s good for my health because it connects me to nature and allows me to give back in a positive way. Trees give us so much more than we give them. The simple act of planting one is a beautiful way of acknowledging and honoring their enormous contribution to life.

In my immediate local area, the biggest concern is soil and ground contamination primarily caused by glass manufacturing waste, including toxic metals, arsenic, cadmium, lead, and boron. The contaminated soil was used as fill in times past and has been of concern is specific locations, including several parks and at the high school. What was encouraging though was that our local area has been cleaning up the contaminated places. Currently, they plan to finish up by Spring of 2026. I’ll be keeping an eye on this now that I’m aware of it!

The truth is I don’t donate food to charities or institutions that are organized to support the local community in this way. This was my first time doing so and I’m glad I did. It helped me find new resources to give to and to direct people to. The people collecting the donations were friendly and approachable too; which was encouraging to see.

I usually keep food donations closer to home by giving them to some of my neighbors. There are a number of elderly neighbors in my neighborhood. Some are not as old but are on the higher age group. So I like to give them extra fruits and veggies from our backyard during the summer and fall. In the winter and early spring, I give them any extra baked goods or sourdough bread we’ve made. Sometimes we purposefully make extra food just to give away to neighbors, family, and friends. It’s a special way to connect with others and to share from our heart and home. Meaningful connections are important to me so this is an easy way to apply my values. I find it helps to bring down walls and allows for open exchange too!

What surprised me most was how easy it is to implement actions that reduce energy footprint at home. There were quite a few actions I was already aware of and have been implementing. Others are on the to-do list, like sealing all draft areas in the attic. However, before reading on how to perform an at-home energy audit, I was fully expecting to read about complicated ways of saving energy. Quite the opposite! I mean some are lengthy in performing as they require several steps. But there are many easy ones. It has inspired me to encourage my family and friends to read up on it for themselves too. Sometimes the only reason we don’t take action is because we think it will be difficult to do. Having simple steps that are clearly laid out can help to remove some of the intimidation that may be associated with not making change while also making it easier to take action.

Environmental Justice and Community Impact in South Dakota

Pollinators impact my life by providing beauty as my flowers bloom and food to provide sustenance. I can plant marigolds and cone flowers to help the pollinators in my area thrive.