The Environmental Stewardship Committee Celebrates Successes
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We have had many successes regarding environmental stewardship in the Association over the last few months. This fall, we kicked off the first annual AORE National Day of Service to coincide on Public Lands Day. Universities and other member programs across the nation partnered with local landowners to help with various projects and initiatives designed to improve the outdoor experiences of visitors. We chose this day specifically to honor and thank the lands that we use the most–both personally and professionally–and we did this with you in mind. Many landowners also celebrate Public Lands Day and already offer volunteer events. Reach out to your local contacts to see if they have any programs you may be interested in participating, and use #AOREServiceDay to share your support.
During the conference, the ESC organized a service project that was held Friday, November 11th in Minneapolis. We partnered with the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area who led a fantastic program at one of their sites south of downtown. Attendees participated in the removal of an invasive species, learned about the rich history of the area and of other initiatives of the National Park Service (NPS) to restore Coldwater Spring to its natural state. Just six years ago, Coldwater Spring was a business park complete with twelve buildings and parking lots. Beginning in 2011, the NPS along with thousands of volunteers began working to restore this area to its native prairie and wetlands.
By Elise Clause
Environmental Stewardship Committee Chair