While the terms social distancing and adventure may seem paradoxical when paired together, like one might cancel out the other, a local conservancy group has successfully linked the two.
The Saginaw Basin Land Conservancy debuted a new series of informative videos that can lift the spirits of those going stir-crazy during these days of the COVID-19 pandemic. The goal of social distancing is slowing the infection rate of the virus.
The video series, Socially Distant Science & Adventure, features the SBLC staff as the stars in the clips. The first episode teaches lessons in bird identification techniques and tools and the second in composting. Future episodes could include lessons on landscape and nature photography, local hiking destinations, and pollinators and flowers.
Spending time outdoors is becoming a popular way to observe social distancing while at the same time battling its negative side effects like isolation and loneliness.
"We’ve seen an uptick in people using the nature reserves here and we’re hearing the same things from groups across the nation," says Zachary Branigan, executive director for the SBLC.
"Getting fresh air is a good thing. And going to a nature preserve is a great experience and you’re probably going to have hundreds of acres to yourself."
As everyone waits out this still undefined window of social distancing, the SBLC waits to see if it will begin its traditional season of programming at the end of April. Nothing has been canceled, but they’re prepared to do so if need be. Branigan says that his non-profit is lucky in that they’re not dependent on programming to drive revenue, though he worries for the non-profits that are.
In the meantime, maybe watch some of the Socially Distant Science & Adventure videos and take a trip into the wilderness. It’s a great time for it, and for a number of reasons, too.
"This is a great time of year to see wildlife coming back to life for the spring thaw," Branigan says.
"If you want to go out and take photos or just see the critters, now is the time to do it."
Visit the Saginaw Basin Land Conservancy online to view the videos and learn more.
Got a development news story to share? Email MJ Galbraith here or send him a tweet @mikegalbraith.
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