Twenty million people in the United States celebrated the first Earth Day, April 22, 1970, with demonstrations in cities and “teach-ins” on college campuses. Earth Day was begun to increase awareness of the environment and the effects of air and water pollution and other dangers to the earth’s ecology. Senator Gaylord Nelson from Wisconsin organized the first Earth Day and thus is credited with the birth of environmental activism. Besides other efforts Nelson supported attempts to limit population growth because of its impact on the earth and felt that environment protection should take precedence over economic development.
Earth Day has been held annually on April 22 and offers a chance for all of us to show our support for the natural world. Whether it be discussing environmental issues with friends and family, taking a hike in the woods, starting an organic garden, donating to organizations like the Nature Conservancy (nature.org), or just recycling a plastic bottle, we can all do our part to protect and preserve this planet we call home. Let’s make it clear that, like Rachel Carson, we won’t allow a “Silent Spring”, like the Lorax, we “stand for the trees”, and like Senator Nelson, we will celebrate Earth Day by demonstrating our commitment to preserve nature.
The Nature Lovers Digest team is posting this collection of nature photographs taken by one of our own, Dr. Marvin Olmstead, to honor the spirit of Earth Day. As you look at these stunning images, pause for a moment and reflect on your own experience with nature and how it enriches your life. Thank you for your support of our website, and of the earth.
From top to bottom in the photo gallery:
Rufous hummingbird Gold Beach, Oregon
Painted Hills National Park, Oregon
Fog lifting off the Oregon coast north of Florence, Oregon
Giraffe in Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
Leopard in Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
Shore Acres State Park, Coos Bay, Oregon
Upper McKenzie River above Cougar Reservoir
Storm clouds over Mt. Washington, Willamette National Forest
William L. Finley National Wildlife Refuge, Benton County, Oregon