Letter: Earth Day focus is power of community

As April arrives in MetroWest, the power of our community is best seen in the hands of the thousands of volunteers who step out to protect our shared landscape.

From the walking trails to the bubbling Stony Brook tributary in Weston to the windy banks of the Charles in Waltham to the wetlands in Wayland, Earth Day, April 22, environmental health begins at home.

This year’s global theme, Our Power, Our Planet, while climate change is a global challenge, solutions are often local. When we protect the integrity of our soil, the purity of our watershed, and the stability of our hillsides, we are exercising the most direct power we have stewardship of our own backyard.

Just think, removing a single piece of litter every day, or planting a native tree may seem small, but collectively, these acts define the character of our towns. By participating in these cleanups, we aren’t just picking up trash, we honor a legacy of conservation to keep our communities vibrant, stable, and green for generations.

How to participate

Sustainability and stewardship, highlighted by the Land’s Sake Farm Earth Day Celebration on Saturday, April 25, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Activities include farm cleanups, composting demos, pollinator education, family events, live music and artisans.

The 27th Annual Charles River Cleanup, April 24 and 25 is a massive effort that brings together over 3,000 volunteers.

The Waltham Land Trust will lead teams between Farwell Street and Newton Street on April 25, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Register at CharlesRiverCleanup.org.

Wayland’s Watershed Awareness on April 22 marks the Rotary Club of Weston & Wayland’s annual Earth Day focus to monitor local wetlands.

Dana Vickey, Merriam Street