​Spring is a time for planting – flowers, trees, and vegetables.  Some people have large yards, farms, or ranches while others have pots on the balcony of an apartment.  Whatever space you have can be managed to be beneficial to the earth and its inhabitants.  Give some thought to what you plant.  Plants that are native to your area are more likely to attract and benefit the local insects and pollinators, birds, and animals.  Many critters have specialized diet or habitat needs and will only thrive in their native habitat or conditions.  Most environmentally conscious people have heard about the special needs of the Monarch butterfly, which needs milkweed plants to reproduce.  However, there are many other species of insects, birds, reptiles, and animals who need specific conditions to thrive.  There are many ways to research which plants are beneficial and will grow well in your area.  My university extension office has really useful free information on plants that are native to my area, as well as information on how to plant and care for the plants.  A local nursery can usually provide some of this information.  And of course, there is always the Internet, which will provide more information than you can absorb.  While you are at it, consider what kinds of fertilizer, soil amendment, and insect control you use.  Some are much kinder and environmentally friendly than others.  And remember that insects of all kinds are beneficial as pollinators or food for other critters.    

April 22 is Earth Day.  It’s a good day to reflect on our beautiful planet and how you can help protect its environment. Take a few minutes to notice and enjoy the plants, animals, birds, insects, reptiles, and fish that share the world with us.  Think about how the earth supports us.  We can’t live without what the earth provides – air, water, food, and materials for shelter.  Take a few extra minutes to do something for the earth, in whatever way works for you.  Each of us has a different set of actions that are possible and appropriate for us as individuals.  Here are a few ideas to get you started thinking about what you want to do:

• Try to be more aware of your activities and how they might affect the environment.  Then try to think of ways you can change your actions to reduce their impact. 
• Plant something.  It could be a tree, a bush, a garden, or a houseplant, depending on your space.
• Our work office is having a “No-Print Monday”, encouraging people to avoid printing and learning more ways to do their work electronically.
• Telecommute, walk, or ride your bicycle if these are possible for you.
• Learn something new about the earth or a topic such as renewable energy, zero waste, habitat creation or protection. 
•  Find an organization whose goals are similar to yours so you can participate in some of their activities. 
• Pick up litter near your home or workplace and recycle appropriate items.
• Write to an elected official and let them know your thoughts on protecting the environment.
• Pick one new action that you will implement to reduce your impact on the environment.  There are ideas on thousands of websites and blogs, including mine.  Some of the ideas won’t be applicable to your individual situation, but there will be some actions that will work for you. 

Summer is coming to the northern hemisphere.  It’s time to prepare for the changes in weather and activities.  I live in a semi-arid area that is cold in winter and hot in summer, so these tips are applicable for those areas.  However, many of these tips will apply wherever you live.  Here are some things to think about:

• Warmer weather means it’s time to think about outdoor plants, yards, and gardens.  Whether you have a few pots on your porch or balcony, a typical suburban yard, or a farm or ranch, your choices can help the earth and its creatures.  Plant native bushes, trees, and flowers where you can.  The local insects, birds, reptiles, and animals need their accustomed food and habitat.  Your local university extension can probably provide information on plant choices as well as how to grow and nurture them.  Plan how you’re going to water your plants with low-evaporation choices such as trickle irrigation and watering at night rather than during the heat of the day. 
• Check your air conditioner if you have one.  Simple maintenance can help it run efficiently, using less energy.  Here’s a link to a post from last year with more information.  http://www.3percentsustainability.com/three-percent-sustainability-challenge/getting-your-air-conditioner-ready  Remember to keep the thermostat set high in summer. 
• Evaluate other energy saving ideas such as attic insulation, insulating window coverings, or a programmable or smart thermostat.  If you have an air conditioner, extra insulation and regulating the temperature settings can save a lot of energy.  If you don’t have an air conditioner, installing attic insulation or insulating window coverings can help your home stay cooler, and then will help your home stay warmer next winter.