This is a rallying call to step up and be a part of the movement to restore our ecosystems!

May 31 – June 8 is ‘Make a Difference Week’, led by The Society for Ecological Restoration (SER). SER is an international non-profit organisation that advances the science, practice, and policy of ecological restoration and we would like you to join Parklands’ special ‘Make a Difference Week’ Community Stewardship Morning on June 5. For all the information and how to register, please visit the event page here.

‘Make a Difference Week’ is an annual week of global restoration action involving individuals and organisations from around the world participating in local volunteer events. This is a great opportunity to contribute to the well-being of our local patch, and together, these events have a global impact. You can see what other events are on worldwide here.

But what exactly is ecosystem restoration and why is it so important? Ecosystem restoration means assisting in the recovery of ecosystems that have been degraded or destroyed, as well as conserving the ecosystems that are still intact. The environment needs us now more than ever as we are at the last chance stop of being able to act to save our ecosystems before it’s too late to reverse the damage. If we do nothing now, catastrophic climate change is likely.

Don’t forget that the health of our ecosystems directly impacts your well-being. Improving the environment leads to better air and water quality which means a healthy place to live for us, our children, and our children’s children into the future. Trees provide oxygen and sequester carbon from the atmosphere, helping to reduce the effects of climate change. Revegetating riparian habitats improves natural filtration of water, stops erosion, and lessens the effects of flood events. And of course, planting more native seedlings leads to greater biodiversity so that we can continue to enjoy the wonders of nature around us. Green spaces can also help to improve mental health simply by providing a connection with nature as well as peaceful environments in which to move our bodies. Walking trails throughout reserves provide opportunities close to home for exercise for both ourselves and our four-legged friends.

It’s important to remember that these places do not exist without hard work by caring people – and if you enjoy them and want them to stick around, you can do your bit and come and help remove weeds or plant seedlings. Being part of important work like this also fosters social connections and a sense of pride and belonging. So it’s a win all-round!

If you’ve been thinking about getting involved with one of Parklands’ events, this is a great time to start. You don’t need to have any experience or prior knowledge at all! Our Community Stewardship mornings are mostly about removing invasive weeds to enable native species to flourish and Parklands Rangers will help and guide you along the way.

And if you can’t make it to one of our events, don’t worry, you can still have a positive impact by planting more native species at home or even just by learning about the natural world around you and how it contributes to your health and well-being.

Thanks to Albury City for the financial support for our Community Stewardship Mornings.