7 Simple Ways to Show Up for the Natural World This Earth Day

Visit a park, a trail, a waterfront, a community garden — anywhere that reminds you why this work matters. As conservationists, we protect land because we love it. That love starts with showing up, even when life gets busy. 

April is peak spring migration across North America and the skies are full. You don’t need binoculars to notice a warbler in a tree or a heron at the edge of a pond. Migration is one of the great natural spectacles on Earth, and it happens right overhead, often unnoticed. This year, notice it. 

If your local market is open — many are just waking up for spring — make it a stop on Earth Day. Working farms protect open land, support local food systems, and keep development at bay. Buy something you’ve never cooked before. Ask the farmer how the season is going. 

There’s likely a conservation win within a few hours of where you live that you’ve never heard of. Spend a few minutes with our interactive impact map and see what’s been protected in your region. It’s a surprisingly moving experience. 

Kids who don’t spend time in nature don’t grow up to fight for it. Make Earth Day the day you hand a young person a magnifying glass, help them get muddy, and let the woods do the rest. 

Counter the heavy news cycle intentionally. Read about the Whooping Crane habitat protected in Texas, the 4,000 acres of new recreation-rich land saved in western Colorado, or the organic farm in Georgia that will feed its community forever. Good things are happening. Let yourself feel it. 

This year, we’re giving supporters something special: the chance to double their impact. A generous donor has put up a matching gift challenge, and on Earth Day, every dollar you give will be matched dollar for dollar. Stay tuned for details — and get ready to make April 22nd count.The forests, wetlands, and wild places we protect don’t come with a pause button. Your support keeps us moving when the stakes are highest.