April/May 2023 Newsletter
Published April 1st at 10:00am PST
POETRY COMPETITION WINNER
Prompt: Write a poem in any style that expresses what you feel, experience, or observe as the season changes to Spring.
Gayathri Ramachandran
Age 27 Sri Lanka
From frosty morns to thawing days,
From icy winds to gentle breeze,
The world awakens from its daze,
And sheds its winter freeze.
The snow begins to melt away,
Revealing blades of green,
As flowers burst forth in array,
A sight to behold, it seems.
The trees once bare, now dressed in green,
With buds and leaves anew,
As nature sheds its winter scene,
And paints the world in hue.
The birds return from distant lands,
To sing their sweet refrain,
As life resumes its joyful dance,
And winter's grip wanes.
Table of Contents
Land is ‘ohana
VIDEO: Lessons from a Thousand Years of Island Sustainability
The Fascinating Migratory Patterns of Birds and Their Importance to Global Biodiversity
April/May Astronomical Events
National Parks: A Geographical Wonder
The Effects of Shoreline Erosion
Poetry Competition Finalists
Join Our Social Media Team!
Energy Hour
Land is ‘ohana
CULTURE RADAR
Hidden Valley
Patrick Ching
https://www.patrickching.com/product-page/hidden-valley
Kā‘anapali 200 Years Ago
Herb Kāne
https://www.mauimagazine.net/herb-kane/
https://www.herbkanehawaii.com/
Lehua Blossoms
Elena Arinaga
Works Cited
Sam ‘Ohu Gon III, “Lessons from a thousand years of island sustainability”, TEDx Talks (TEDx Talks, December 29, 2014), https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l9fv_2XIJBk&t=15s
Jean Hobbs, Hawaii: A Pageant of the Soil (Stanford University Press, 1934).
Robin Kimmerer, “Robin Kimmerer on Land Justice”, UH Better Tomorrow Speaker Series (UH Better Tomorrow, February 7, 2023), https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8UWMeEFGMk4&t=1s
Martha Beckwith, Hawaiian Mythology (Copyright by University of Hawai‘i Press, 1970).
Sam ‘Ohu Gon III, “Lessons from a thousand years of island sustainability”, TEDx Talks (TEDx Talks, December 29, 2014), https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l9fv_2XIJBk&t=15s
BY ELENA ARINAGA
What do you think of when you think of Hawai‘i? Is it sandy white beaches, beautiful green mountains, lush forests? Many consider these islands the ideal vacation spot. Or better yet: paradise. But what does paradise really even mean? And more importantly, what did it mean for the native Hawaiians before the first Westerners came to their shores? Before Western contact, native Hawaiians lived a fundamentally different lifestyle than that seen today. One of many different Polynesian cultures located in the Pacific Ocean, Hawaiians maintained an almost symbiotic relationship to nature and the land they lived on. This idea they referred to as aloha ‘āina. Aloha ‘āina translates to a deep love for the land, but also encompasses the health and wellbeing of the land you live on, which is in turn connected to your own health and wellbeing.₁
This idea contrasts starkly with our current Western mindset of land as “private property”. The notion of “private property” was a foreign concept to Hawaiians before Westerners came along.₂ Land could not be sold or purchased by one individual, and the food and medicine the land provided were gifts rather than commodified products. One did not talk about one’s rights to the land, but rather the rights of the land—a concept that is practiced in countless other indigenous cultures.₃ In contrast, Western cultures typically view land purely as a commodity to be used to maximum effect, which is an extremely destructive and harmful mindset.
Where does this fundamental difference between the two cultures come from? One aspect to be considered is Hawaiian religion. Hawaiians revered and worshipped a significant number of different gods. Each god was physically manifested as an aspect of nature and every aspect of nature was connected to a god. This polytheistic worldview ensured Hawaiians took care of their environment, as they knew bad luck would befall any of those who harmed and disrespected nature, and therefore the gods. One narrative example of this is the story of Hina-ulu-ohi‘a (Hina the growing ohi‘a tree), goddess of the ohi‘a-lehua forest, those who pluck the sacred lehua blossoms from the ohi‘a tree without showing proper respect, may encounter great tragedy.₄
The Hawaiians considered plant life outside the control of humankind and more intimately associated with the gods.₄ For that reason, plant life was held with more reverence than even animal life. And so the land was divided into two realms: that of the gods (wao akua) and that of humankind (wao kanaka). This separation of realms ensured humans would not overstep their boundaries in the search to satisfy their needs and thus the land they lived and depended on was protected. Additionally, this meant Hawaiians could live entirely off the land itself without exhausting it. Unlike in present day Hawai‘i, they did not require any food or resources to be imported from elsewhere in order to survive. Hawaiians knew how much use the land could handle and consequently did not cause harm and destruction to come to the land for their own personal gains.₅
While Western culture may describe someone who lives in an abundance of resources as “living like a god”, native Hawaiians considered their gods when in human form to be living in “earthly abundance” upon the islands.₄ Their islands sustained them with all they needed, and so in return they received these gifts with appreciation and gratitude. The Hawaiian word ‘ohāna shows how close their ties to nature really were. While most people associate this word with the all-time favorite children’s movie Lilo & Stitch, for the Hawaiians, the root of this word, ‘ohā, denotes “the shoots that grow up about a rootstock”.₄ The word ‘ohāna therefore refers to a family group of plants, and by extension a family group of humans. We quickly learn that when we treat plants and nature as our family, our relationship to them changes completely.
In these contemporary times of destructive consumerism, overexploitation of land and nature, and the looming threat of climate change, it can be refreshing to consider nature and plant life our family, our gods. The less we think of natural elements as products and commodities, the happier our environment will be. If we keep using and abusing the gifts that are given to us so freely by the land, it will no longer be a paradise we live in. And so let us learn something from native Hawaiians today, and live in collaboration with the natural world, rather than in an extortion of it. As human beings, we have a responsibility to take care of that which sustains us, not because it sustains us but because, like any member of our family, it is inherently worth taking care of.
LESSONS FROM A THOUSAND YEARS OF ISLAND SUSTAINABILITY
Sam ‘Ohu Gon III, PhD
TEDxMaui
This video was cited in Elena’s article above “Land is ‘ohana“
CULTURE RADAR
THE FASCINATING MIGRATORY PATTERNS OF BIRDS AND THEIR IMPORTANCE TO GLOBAL BIODIVERSITY
BY ABRAR HASANAT
CRITTER CORNER
Migratory birds are a remarkable and diverse group of species that undertake epic journeys across the globe each year. According to BirdLife International, "more than 4,000 species of birds undertake regular seasonal movements, many of which involve journeys of thousands of kilometers".₁ These migratory patterns are some of the most impressive feats of animal navigation and endurance in the natural world.
Some of the most famous migratory birds are:
Arctic Tern - This bird is known for its incredible migration distance, as it travels from the Arctic to the Antarctic and back again each year, covering a distance of up to 44,000 miles.
Bar-tailed Godwit - This bird holds the record for the longest non-stop flight by a bird, covering a distance of 7,000 miles from Alaska to New Zealand in just 9 days.
Swainson's Hawk - This bird breeds in North America and migrates to South America, where it spends the winter.
European Robin - This small bird breeds in Europe and parts of Asia, and migrates to North Africa and the Middle East for the winter.
Ruby-throated Hummingbird - This bird breeds in eastern North America and migrates to Central America and Mexico for the winter.
Sandhill Crane - This bird breeds in North America and migrates to the southwestern U.S. and Mexico for the winter.
Common Cuckoo - This bird breeds in Europe and parts of Asia, and migrates to Africa for the winter.
Barn Swallow - This bird breeds in Europe, Asia, and North America, and migrates to Central and South America for the winter.
These are just a few examples of the many migratory birds that exist around the world.
Migratory birds play a vital role in global biodiversity, as they help to maintain healthy ecosystems and support a wide range of other species. According to The Convention on Migratory Species, "migratory birds provide critical ecosystem services such as pollination, seed dispersal, and pest control, and are an important source of income for many communities".₂ They also serve as indicators of environmental health, as changes in their populations and migration patterns can signal broader ecological disruptions.
Conserving migratory birds and their habitats is a crucial task for ensuring global biodiversity. Human activities, such as habitat loss, pollution, hunting, and climate change, have led to a decline in bird populations. However, various efforts are underway to mitigate these threats and protect migratory birds.
International agreements, such as the Convention on Migratory Species and the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands, have been established to promote the conservation of migratory bird populations and their habitats. Many countries have also developed their own conservation plans to protect migratory birds.₂,₈
One of the key approaches to conserving migratory birds is the protection and restoration of their habitats. Habitat loss is a significant threat to migratory birds, and conserving their habitats is essential for their survival. This can be achieved through the establishment of protected areas, such as national parks, wildlife refuges, and other conservation areas. Efforts are also being made to restore degraded habitats, such as wetlands, grasslands, and forests.₃,₅
Another approach to conserving migratory birds is through the regulation of hunting and poaching. Many migratory birds are hunted or poached for food or sport, which can lead to significant declines in populations. Regulations on hunting and poaching, coupled with enforcement efforts, can help to protect migratory birds from these threats.₄,₇
Climate change is also a significant threat to migratory birds, causing loss of habitat, changes in migratory patterns, increasing competition for breeding spaces, amplified dangers to migratory birds, etc. Efforts are being made to mitigate its effects. This includes reducing greenhouse gas emissions, promoting renewable energy sources, and developing adaptation strategies for vulnerable species.₆
Education and outreach are also important for promoting the conservation of migratory birds. Raising awareness about the importance of migratory birds and their habitats can help to foster a greater appreciation for these species and encourage more people to take action to protect them.
In conclusion, the conservation of migratory birds and their habitats is crucial for ensuring global biodiversity. Efforts to protect and restore habitats, regulate hunting and poaching, mitigate climate change, and raise awareness about the importance of migratory birds are all essential for the survival of these remarkable species. By working together, we can ensure that migratory birds continue to fascinate and inspire us for generations to come.
Works Cited
BirdLife International. "Migratory birds." Accessed March 15, 2023. https://www.birdlife.org/worldwide/science/migratory-birds.
The Convention on Migratory Species. "Migratory Birds and Flyways." Accessed March 15, 2023. https://www.cms.int/en/topic/migratory-birds-and-flyways.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. "Migratory birds." Accessed March 15, 2023. https://www.fws.gov/birds/bird-enthusiast/migratory-birds.php.
United Nations Environment Programme. "Migratory Species." Accessed March 15, 2023. https://www.unep.org/explore-topics/wildlife/explore/migratory-species.
World Wildlife Fund. "Migratory Species." Accessed March 15, 2023. https://www.worldwildlife.org/species/directory?direction=desc&sort=extinction_status&species_type=migratory-species.
United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. "Adaptation of ecosystems, species and natural processes." Accessed March 15, 2023. https://unfccc.int/process-and-meetings/the-paris-agreement/the-paris-agreement/adaptation-of-ecosystems-species-and-natural-processes.
BirdLife International. "Illegal killing and taking of birds." Accessed March 15, 2023. https://www.birdlife.org/worldwide/science/illegal-killing-and-taking-birds.
Ramsar Convention on Wetlands. "Migratory birds." Accessed March 15, 2023. https://www.ramsar.org/wetland-types/migratory-birds.
Cornell Lab of Ornithology - https://www.allaboutbirds.org/
National Geographic - https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/birds/group/migratory-birds/
World Migratory Bird Day - https://www.worldmigratorybirdday.org/
https://www.worldmigratorybirdday.org/2007/index44cb.html#:~:text=One%20of%20the%20major%20effects,and%20foraging%20are%20an%20example.
APRIL/MAY ASTRONOMICAL EVENTS
ASTRO BOY
FEBRUARY
April 6
Full Moon
(Pink Moon, Sprouting Grass Moon, Growing Moon, Egg Moon, Fish Moon)
April 11:
Mercury at Greatest Eastern Elongation
April 20:
Hybrid Solar Eclipse
New Moon
April 22, 23:
Lyrids Meteor Shower
MAY
May 5
Penumbral Lunar Eclipse
Full Moon
(Flower Moon, Corn Planting Moon, Milk Moon)
May 6, 7:
Eta Aquarids Meteor Shower
May 19:
New Moon
May 29
Mercury at Greatest Western Elongation
WHAT IS A HYBRID SOLAR ECLIPSE?
According to NASA a hybrid solar eclipse is an eclipse that “can shift between annular and total as the Moon’s shadow moves across the globe” due to the curve of Earth’s surface.
So what is an annular solar eclipse? An annular solar eclipse occurs when the Moon is too far away from Earth to completely block out the sun; however the Moon, Earth, and Sun are still in alignment as they would be in a total eclipse. These are the eclipses that cause the “halo” appearance.
An annular solar eclipse is different from a partial solar eclipse in that a partial eclipse is caused by insufficient alignment of the Sun, Moon, and Earth, causing only sections of the Sun to be covered. These are the eclipses where we see a crescent shape.
Works Cited
NASA. (2022, December 21). Types of Solar Eclipses. NASA. Retrieved March 30, 2023, from https://solarsystem.nasa.gov/eclipses/about-eclipses/types/#:~:text=partial%20solar%20eclipse.-,EclipseHybrid%20Solar%20Eclipse,called%20a%20hybrid%20solar%20eclipse.
NATIONAL PARKS:
A Geographical Wonder
BY ABRAR HASANAT
GEO BLAST
Have you ever stood in awe of a towering mountain, gazed out at a sweeping canyon, or marveled at the intricate patterns of a rock formation? If so, you've experienced the power and beauty of geological formations, which have been shaped by millions of years of natural forces. In the United States, many of these formations can be found within our national parks, which not only provide incredible scenery but also play a critical role in conservation and tourism.₁
National parks are some of the most stunning and biodiverse areas on the planet. These protected areas not only offer a glimpse into the natural world but also play an important role in the conservation of species and ecosystems. One of the most striking features of many national parks is their geological formations, which provide a window into the Earth's history and help us understand the processes that have shaped our planet. From massive mountains to deep canyons and vast deserts, the unique geological features found in national parks attract millions of tourists each year.₁
In this article, we'll explore some of the most spectacular geological formations found in national parks and their importance to both conservation and tourism.
From the towering peaks of Denali in Alaska to the colorful canyons of Zion in Utah, national parks are home to an incredible variety of geological features. Some of the most famous examples include:
Grand Canyon National Park
The Grand Canyon is one of the most well-known and awe-inspiring geological formations found in a national park. Located in northern Arizona, this massive canyon stretches for 277 miles and is up to 18 miles wide and over a mile deep. The canyon was carved out by the Colorado River over millions of years and provides a stunning glimpse into the earth's geological history. The Grand Canyon is not only a popular tourist destination but also serves as an important research site for geologists, who study the unique rock formations found throughout the canyon.₂
Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park, located primarily in Wyoming but also extends into Montana and Idaho, is home to a variety of geological wonders. Old Faithful, a geyser that regularly erupts and may spew water up to 185 feet in the air, is probably the most well-known of these. But Yellowstone is also home to a variety of hot springs, mud pots, and fumaroles, which are all unique geological features created by the park's underground magma chamber. In addition to attracting millions of visitors each year, these features also provide important habitats for a variety of microorganisms, which can survive in extreme environments.₃
Arches National Park
Arches National Park, in Utah's eastern corner, is where you'll find incredible natural arches and sandstone formations. The park contains over 2,000 natural arches, which were created by erosion and weathering over millions of years. Some of the most famous arches include Delicate Arch, Landscape Arch, and Double Arch. In addition to their visual appeal, these arches are also important research sites for geologists, who study the unique rock formations found in the park.₄
Yosemite National Park
Located in the Sierra Nevada mountains of California, Yosemite National Park is known for its towering granite cliffs, waterfalls, and lush forests. One of the most iconic features of the park is El Capitan, a massive granite monolith that rises over 3,000 feet above the valley floor. Yosemite's unique geology has also played an important role in the park's conservation efforts. For example, the park's giant sequoias, which are the largest trees in the world, require a specific type of soil and fire regime to survive. By studying the park's geology, scientists have been able to better understand the requirements for these ancient trees to thrive.₅
These are just a few examples of the incredible geological formations found within national parks. But why are these features so important to conservation and tourism?
Conservation Importance of National Parks:
National parks are crucial for preserving endangered species and ecosystems. They provide a safe haven for rare and endangered species to thrive, undisturbed by human activities. Many national parks also serve as wildlife sanctuaries, allowing animals to migrate, breed and feed in protected areas without interference from humans. National parks also protect vital watersheds, wetlands, and other critical habitats, which are crucial for maintaining the ecological balance of the area.
Moreover, they play a crucial role in educating people about the importance of environmental conservation. They offer opportunities for visitors to learn about the natural world and the ways they can help protect it. Many national parks offer guided tours and educational programs, which help visitors understand the need for conservation and sustainable practices.₆,₇
Tourism Importance of National Parks:
National parks are also an important source of revenue for local economies, generating billions of dollars in tourism revenue annually. They attract millions of visitors from all over the world, providing a boost to local businesses such as hotels, restaurants, and tour operators. The tourism industry provides jobs to local communities, and national parks can help support sustainable tourism practices that benefit the local economy while protecting the environment.
Tourism also provides an opportunity for people to experience the natural world and connect with nature. National parks offer visitors an opportunity to explore and enjoy natural landscapes, from majestic mountain ranges to pristine beaches, and from dense forests to sweeping grasslands. Many national parks also offer a range of outdoor activities, such as hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife watching, providing visitors with a unique and memorable experience.₈,₉
Challenges Facing National Parks:
Despite their importance, national parks face several challenges that threaten their continued existence. Climate change, habitat loss, invasive species, and pollution are all threats to the environment and biodiversity of national parks. In addition, the tourism industry can also pose a threat to the environment if not managed sustainably. Overcrowding, pollution, and overuse of natural resources can all have negative impacts on the environment, and it's essential to manage tourism in a way that minimizes these impacts.
The COVID-19 pandemic has also highlighted the vulnerability of national parks and the importance of protecting them. Many national parks had to close to visitors during the pandemic, causing significant revenue losses to local communities that depend on tourism. The pandemic also highlighted the need to manage tourism sustainably, to prevent overcrowding and protect the environment.₁₀
Conclusion:
In conclusion, national parks are essential for the conservation of our environment and biodiversity. They protect rare and endangered species, critical habitats, and provide opportunities for environmental education. National parks are also important tourist attractions that generate billions of dollars in revenue, supporting local economies and providing opportunities for outdoor recreation. However, national parks face several challenges, including climate change, habitat loss, and unsustainable tourism practices. To ensure the continued existence of national parks, it's essential to manage them sustainably, protect them from threats, and educate visitors about the importance of environmental conservation.₁₁
Works Cited
"National Parks" - National Park Service. Accessed March 9, 2023. https://www.nps.gov/learnandexplore/index.htm
"Geology of the Grand Canyon" - National Park Service. Accessed March 9, 2023. https://www.nps.gov/grca/learn/nature/grca-geology.htm
"Yellowstone Geology" - National Park Service. Accessed March 9, 2023. https://www.nps.gov/yell/learn/nature/geology.htm
"Arches National Park Geology" - National Park Service. Accessed March 9, 2023. https://www.nps.gov/arch/learn/nature/arches.htm
"Yosemite Geology" - National Park Service. Accessed March 9, 2023. https://www.nps.gov/yose/learn/nature/geology.htm
National Park Service. (2022). Conservation. Retrieved from https://www.nps.gov/subjects/conservation/index.htm
"National Park Visitor Spending Effects" - National Park Service. Accessed March 9, 2023. https://www.nps.gov/subjects/socialscience/vse.htm
National Park Service. (2022). Tourism. Retrieved from https://www.nps.gov/subjects/tourism/index.htm
"National Park Visitor Spending Effects" - National Park Service. Accessed March 9, 2023. https://www.nps.gov/subjects/socialscience/vse.htm
https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/article/national-parks-issues
“Top 10 Issues Facing National Parks” - National Geographic. Accessed March 9, 2023. https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/article/national-parks-issues
“Protect Your Parks” - National Geographic. Accessed March 9, 2023. https://education.nationalgeographic.org/resource/protect-your-parks/
THE EFFECTS OF SHORELINE EROSION
BY IRAIZ CRISTINA HERNANDEZ SOLANO
It's no secret that the beach environment is relaxing and beautiful in so many ways, no matter what part of the coast you're seeing it from. However, there is an underlying problem for all coasts that can't be prevented, but it can't be mitigated. I'm talking about shoreline erosion. It can most easily be described as a natural occurrence by both wind and water that eats away at the natural shorelines.₁ First hand, I've personally seen these effects on both the beaches of New York and Puerto rico. It is incredibly valuable to be informed on what we can do to offset shoreline erosion so we can all play our role as beach lovers.
Erosion happens when waves pull sand back further into the ocean. [Editors Note: Shoreline erosion is caused by a combination of sea level rise, strong wave action, and coastal flooding which wears down and carries away sediment and rock.₇] As the waves continue to pull the sand back, coastal infrastructure and housing is at risk depending on the force of the waves.₂ What makes it more challenging is that infrastructure in front of shorelines tends to be larger than those that aren’t—tourism is common in these areas. Resorts, hotels and activities along the beach bring revenue when visitors spend money in these areas. The ground beneath homes built too close to a shoreline will experience damage due to erosion. The effects that follow can be life threatening. In some cases, the dangers even spread up rivers which are connected to oceans. The Stirling Community in Missouri had lost 20 people due to a flood, while many lost their homes. It is clear that erosion can affect communities along oceans and rivers.₃ Shoreline erosion will lead to a change in the land on coastal fronts. Without vegetation, we can expect for waves to easily access these shores and shift the sand beneath. Shoreline Erosions will always occur as ocean currents actively circulate oceans; but temperature changes and buildings along shorelines makes the aftermath much worse.
It’s challenging enough moving into a neighborhood close to a shoreline, at any time an emergency could emerge leaving many displaced during flooding. Communities often have protocols and evacuation plans. Levees have been a common method to avoid floods on rivers and beaches, but still cannot guarantee control of the coastal flooding. Products such as the High-Performance Turf Reinforcement Mats or Sediment Control Rolls are available, but even using a simple product like straw vegetation is costly. Just one bundle of straw can start at $50.00, and the truth is that plenty of them will be needed to make a significant impact.₄ So it’s not a surprise that the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) likes to step in and bring some comfort to these communities.
The problem with this is that erosion is a natural occurrence. One tactic for mitigating erosion is beach nourishment which consists of dredging up sand from the ocean floor and adding it to shores. However, this is still a pricey task. Felicia Combs, a renowned meteorologist, has also drawn attention to shoreline erosion. During her trip to Puerto Rico, she pointed out how coastal erosion has affected the layout of beaches which has made it more dangerous to enjoy these beaches. Even Dr. Maritza Barreto Orta, an Oceanographer pointed out that local vegetation was being dragged away.₅ The strong wave actions can reshape the way we map out infrastructure and handle emergencies.
The real solution requires maintenance of sand dunes and planting proper vegetation to prevent the sand from easily being swept away by the waves. However, building tourism infrastructure often results in people clearing out sand dunes and vegetation to make way for kiosks, rental homes, and other events that could secure revenue. This becomes harmful not only to local birds, insects and sea life but also makes it hard to combat storms through protection of the vegetation.
During my time in Puerto Rico I witnessed modifications in the landscape of Añasco beach, such as machines excavating palm trees and sand dunes, and removing busherry from the shorelines. This summer before the project was completed, I was able to see a few sea turtle nests landmarked under environmental protection. During my return to Añasco beach this winter I felt the breeze a lot harsher not because of the season, but because the initial trees weren’t blocking the sea breeze.
Currently I’m back in New York City, and living close to the Sheepshead Bay pier. Being a short walk from Manhattan beach, I’ve begun to look more closely at my neighborhood. I recently became aware that last year the community worked diligently to create sand dunes to protect against erosion. I have to say, I’m curious as to what other communities are doing, or what you fellow readers plan to do.
Works Cited
Erosion | FEMA.gov. (n.d.). Www.fema.gov. Retrieved February 15, 2023, from https://www.fema.gov/glossary/erosion
National assessment of shoreline change—Summary statistics for updated vector shorelines and associated shoreline change data for the Gulf of Mexico and Southeast Atlantic coasts | U.S. Geological Survey. (n.d.). Www.usgs.gov. Retrieved February 15, 2023, from https://www.usgs.gov/publications/national-assessment-shoreline-change-summary-statistics-updated-vector-shorelines-0
ProPublica. (2018, August 6). Flood Thy Neighbor: Who Stays Dry and Who Decides? ProPublica; ProPublica. https://www.propublica.org/article/levee-valley-park-flood-thy-neighbor-who-stays-dry-and-who-decides
East Coast Erosion Control. (2018, November 7). East Coast Erosion Control - Erosion Blankets - Sediment Control - T-Recs. East Coast Erosion Control. https://www.eastcoasterosion.com/
Barreto Orta, Maritza, Ph.D – Escuela Graduada de Planificación. (n.d.). Retrieved February 15, 2023, from http://planificacion.uprrp.edu/facultad/barreto-orta-maritza-ph-d/
Other Sources
Manhattan Beach tries to recreate beach dunes to protect against erosion. (2022, January 24). Daily Breeze. https://www.dailybreeze.com/2022/01/24/manhattan-beach-tries-to-recreate-beach-dunes-to-protect-against-erosion/
Lopez, K. (6 C.E.). Añasco Beach- Turtle Nest (K. Lopez, Ed.) [Review of Añasco Beach- Turtle Nest].
The Weather Group | Felicia Combs. (n.d.). Www.weathergroup.com. Retrieved February 15, 2023, from https://www.weathergroup.com/personalities/felicia-combs
Editor’s Sources
https://toolkit.climate.gov/topics/coastal-flood-risk/coastal-erosion#:~:text=Coastal%20erosion%20is%20the%20process,or%20sands%20along%20the%20coast.
CRYSTAL CLEAR
POETRY COMPETITION FINALISTS
Prompt: Write a poem in any style that expresses what you feel, experience, or observe as the season changes to Spring.
Congratulations to our winner, Gayathri Ramachandran age 27 from Sri Lanka!
And another big congratulations to our finalists Sarah Mills and Iraiz Cristina Hernandez Solano!
All three poems are a beautiful representation of winter turning into spring and we are honored to feature these poets.
Gayathri Ramachandran
Age 27 Sri Lanka
From frosty morns to thawing days,
From icy winds to gentle breeze,
The world awakens from its daze,
And sheds its winter freeze.
The snow begins to melt away,
Revealing blades of green,
As flowers burst forth in array,
A sight to behold, it seems.
Sarah Mills
Age 34 UK
My Primavera
Spring is the renaissance of the self
Rising from the earth frore-set
As Gaia’s fingers gracile green
Unclasp that crystal collarette.
In the hanging heads of snowdrop drifts
I sense that none of them ever knows
That though they are not coloured bold
White gives birth to all rainbows.
And in the triumphant trumpets of daffodils
I see a kind of temerity
That though the sun is brighter still
They proudly claim such parity.
And how I love the blue tit bird
In his breeches of nankeen
Flitting about the cherry tree
In dandy shades of blue and green.
But for all these sights it is the lamb
Nestled in its mother’s side
That brings a warmth no fire can give,
A simple peace that’s purified.
The trees once bare, now dressed in green,
With buds and leaves anew,
As nature sheds its winter scene,
And paints the world in hue.
The birds return from distant lands,
To sing their sweet refrain,
As life resumes its joyful dance,
And winter's grip wanes.
Iraiz Cristina Hernandez Solano
Age 24 USA
Seedling Unknown
Like a dormant seed
I’m slow to sprout
Simply soak in the earth and make room all about
No expectations for this to be easy
But every piece of hope has me reaching for the sun
Not all plants bloom at the same time
And just like me
Not all of us are a cup of tea
For a little bug or critter
To make a home of
No pressure to make a new friend
Just searching for a companion
To join me during these new beginnings
So be it a rainy day
Or ever so hot as the wind blows by
It’s true that I have something to look forward to
Like a dormant seed meeting someone new
ENERGY GIRL
ENERGY HOUR
Tuesdays from 7pm-8pm
Turn off all energy-using lights, appliances, and heating/cooling systems!
If you're wondering what to do without TV or a laptop charger here's some ideas!
-Color, Arts and Crafts
-Puzzles: jigsaw, crosswords
-Board Games
-Clean
-Talk to your housemates!
Editor’s Note: Earthians Care is a dual education platform. While our writers are here to spread information to readers, they are themselves learning about these topics. Our writers are not professionals in the field, nor are they professional writers and researchers. While we all do our best to relay accurate information, we encourage you to explore topics on your own as well. The sources given in the newsletter are a great place to start! If you are aware of any inaccurate information presented in our newsletter, please notify us at earthianscare@gmail.com Subject: Correction.