Nature Clean Up! (#4)

     When I heard we were going to the Nature Center I really did not know what to expect. I had gone to the Nature Center a long time ago for a school trip but nothing recent. I set out with my project group and we all arrived at the meeting spot. While waiting for the others we got to look at the collection of animal skulls and see the inside. Once we all got outside we learned the rules of the wood chipper and were whisked away to start work. Never in my life did I think I would be using a wood chipper or cleaning out forests but today was the just the beginning. We got our safety equipment and began the job. At first, was not really sure what to look for or how to be the most productive but I just went for it. After I got the hang of it, it was kind of fun getting to use the machines and clean up our area. 

    The whole time I was just so amused about the work I was doing. Never in a million years would I have predicted by Tuesdays of my Senior year to be dedicated to cleaning out invasive plant species and clearing out brush but I can't say I'm upset about it. I think the best part is telling my roommates where I'm off to each week and them being so confused. Major in nursing minor in nature at this point. 

    While the work is not the easiest and the conditions not the most comfortable I do feel good about what I am doing. How many opportunities do you get to escape your world and just give back to the community in ways like this. While we work, we can visibly see our progress and accomplishments and it brings a sense of pride. It makes me value the world around me and see how much more I could be doing to help. While it only may be a few hours one day a week I feel like it is the most productive thing I could do. Studying is always important but it is also good to physically make a productive difference. I am glad to have the opportunity to work with the Nature Center and meet people in my area so passionate about our world and making sure we take care of it. It takes a special person to dedicate their life to such a necessary cause and I'm glad I'm exposed to it now. Seeing it as a young adult I can see their work and their passion and implement it more in my life and make more conscious decisions for our environment. 





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