Celebrate May, National Wetlands Month
As geocachers, we are much more aware of the environment than other hobbyists. Who else do you know is trekking through woods, prickly ash, and poison ivy? Who else is poking around in dead stumps and behind rocks? Who else looks at a hollow log as a possibility rather than trash? Yup, that’s us.
One place geocachers often walk is wetlands. Chances are you’ve seen some pretty cool stuff while geocaching. Maybe you heard a sora call. Or maybe you saw a flock of wood ducks take flight. You’ve had the kind of experience that some only read about in books. Hell, you’ve lived it.
Since we form a close relationship with the environment, it only makes sense that we should want to protect it. What better opportunity than throughout the month of May. Welcome to National Wetlands Month!
Wetlands provide several vital environmental benefits. First and foremost, wetland protect the land from flood by absorbing flood waters and slowing the flow of water. This action prevents soil erosion and other effects.
Second, wetlands filter surface water by slowing water flow and causing sediment to drop out of the water. The sediment, often containing toxic materials, is trapped in the sediment layer, out of harm’s way.
Third, wetlands provide essential habitat for nearly one half of all North American birds, including up to one-third of our threatened and endangered species. To say the least, wetlands maintain the health of the planet.
This month, take some time to visit geocaches located near wetlands. Listen to the birds and other wildlife which inhabit these precious habitats. If possible, do a little clean up to help protect these essential ecosystems.
