The Maturango Museum recently hosted a Conservation in the Indian Wells Valley event on April 24. Sustainability programs in our very own Ridgecrest community showcased their efforts. They addressed ecosystem services and spoke on how everything is a balancing act. They educated people on the state of our planet and steps they can take to protect the surrounding nature.
Burroughs Science Teacher Melanie Branson was head organizer of the event. Branson has a deep appreciation for all things nature like birds and flowers. She partakes in activities such as horse riding, hiking, and camping as well. Branson has always been a profound advocate for the environment.
“I’m sad to see us losing some of the beauty I experienced in my childhood,” said Branson. “I have a daughter and fabulous students whom I would like to have enjoy the same clean air and beauty which I did as a child.”
Branson was ecstatic when the opportunity presented itself to have the event at the museum.
“The Maturango is such a local treasure, and well-respected for their education work and events, so I was honored,” said Branson.
Informative poster boards detailing the presenters’ individual causes were set up around the room for everyone to read about and discuss. Topics included gardening and pH levels, endangered species in China Lake, and the Ridgecrest Community Garden. Fun crafts were offered to the public as well. These were popular with the kids and teenagers. All of the crafts used 100% recycled materials. There were a variety of choices, including making origami cranes, building bird feeders from water bottles, and fashioning flower pens from recycled calendars.
Senior Addie Gerber, who attended the event, appreciated the creative crafts.
“Mrs. Branson’s event was a lot of fun! I really liked the fun little activities we did like making the origami cranes,” said Gerber. “I also liked meeting all of the different people from different conservation organizations. They were really nice and taught me a lot about the different endangered species in the area.
Senior Sophia Pendergast was also present at the event and found she became much more self aware.
“I really enjoyed seeing all of the different nature groups,” said Pendergast. “I didn’t realize that here were so many ways to get involved locally. I had a great time and will definitely be looking out for similar events in the future!”
Branson has a message for everyone on conserving our planet.
“Really, it’s about educating yourself, being aware of your actions, and caring. Everyone likes plentiful food, clean air and water, even if you don’t like the outdoors,” said Branson. “If we continue to tip this pollution and loss of wilderness to unbalance nature, nature is not going to work for us anymore. Simple as that. We don’t all suddenly need to turn vegan to help the planet, but do what you can. Small changes by many people add up. I personally decided I could live without seafood and reduced my red meat consumption to support the declining ocean life and land loss due to cattle ranges. Each person can make small changes – fast fashion is a huge problem – maybe take up thrifting!”
The event was in celebration of Earth Day, which is on April 22. Over 150 people were in attendance.
Find ways you can play a part in taking care of our planet at https://iwvconservancy/sustainability.
