Connecting with Nature

“Every human being responds to a connection with nature.”
- Lynden Miller, Public Garden Designer 

I still remember the first time I read Lynden’s words. I thought, how profound and yet simultaneously simple. I thought of the many women I admire who share similar beliefs. I thought of all the good these women have done and the many good things we have yet to do. 

As we celebrate Women’s History Month, I want to highlight the names of three of the women whose writings and actions have inspired me on my journey to #NurtureNative. These women are: 

Rachel Carson 

Rachel Carson’s Silent Spring alerted me to the irrevocable harms of pesticides and the imbalance they cause in our ecosystems. Today, I eschew their use and hope you will, too. 

Wangari Maathai 

The first environmentalist to win the Nobel Peace Prize, Professor Maathai founded an environmental organization (the Green Belt Movement) to empower women to conserve the environment and improve livelihoods. In its press release announcing her award, The Norwegian Nobel Committee noted, “Peace on earth depends on our ability to secure our living environment. Maathai stands at the front of the fight to promote ecologically viable social, economic and cultural development in Kenya and in Africa. She has taken a holistic approach to sustainable development that embraces democracy, human rights and women’s rights in particular. She thinks globally and acts locally.”  

Marjory Stoneman Douglas 

Journalist, environmentalist and activist are all words that describe Marjory Stoneman Douglas. Author of The Everglades: River of Grass, Douglas is routinely credited with helping to preserve the Everglades. During the ceremony at which he awarded her the Medal of Freedom, President Bill Clinton stated, "Beyond Florida, Marjory Stoneman Douglas is a mentor for all who desire to preserve what we southerners affectionately call 'a sense of place.' And, Mrs. Douglas, the next time I hear someone mention the timeless wonders and powers of Mother Nature, I'll be thinking of you.” 

This list is not all-inclusive. Please tag us on Facebook or Twitter with the names of the women who have inspired you to protect the environment. 

Remember - together we can #NurtureNative.