Words from the Woods ~ Happy New Year! Now is the time to start planning for spring. Is there an area in your yard that would benefit from some native plants? Use this handy Native Plant Finder to choose some plants that will bring beauty and nourishment to our fellow creatures.
In the Woods this winter, Spott’s Landscaping will remove more euonymus. Euonymus (wintercreeper) prevents the emergence of native wildflowers which nurture the insects and birds. Let’s see what develops after these wildflower smothering plants are gone!
In mid-March, we will be cutting back the perennials before new growth begins to allow the insect eggs to hatch. Workdays will be posted if you’d like to help.
Creation Care News: Did you know that our habits can make a big difference in helping reduce our negative impact on creation?
“The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) published a report in 2021 on the environmental impacts of food waste . EPA estimated that each year, U.S. food loss and waste embodies 170 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (million MTCO2e) GHG emissions (excluding landfill emissions) – equal to the annual CO2 emissions of 42 coal-fired power plants. This estimate does not include the significant methane emissions from food waste rotting in landfills. EPA data show that food waste is the single most common material landfilled and incinerated in the U.S., comprising 24 and 22 percent of landfilled and combusted municipal solid waste, respectively.” Food Link to Greenhouse Gases
The World Wildlife Fund has a few suggestions to reduce food waste: Plan your menus and only buy what you need, freeze extras, become a creative cook with leftovers and find ways to use extra foods in baking and cooking.
Mary B, Woods Co-clerk