You don’t have to work with Congress, become a game warden, or form a 30,000-acre game refuge to be a conservation hero. Small projects by a large number of people can have significant impact. Everyone benefits from good wildlife habitats that naturally include clean air and water.
You don’t have to go it alone either – there are plenty of resources out there to help. For instance, a visit to Virginia’s Department of Wildlife Resources website provides a quick look at “five things you can do to attract more birds, bugs, deer and other critters.” (https://dwr.virginia.gov/blog/diy-for-better-wildlife-habitat/) You can also get involved in organizations such as the Waynesboro Game and Fish Protective Association (Kenny Wilkinson – rkjpinetrail56@gmail.com) or other conservation organizations to find ways to help.
Finally, get to know places like Big Levels and experience the joys of being outdoors whether you are hunting, fishing, watching wildlife, camping, hiking, horseback riding, or cycling. Remember to support public lands on local, state, and national levels and always give a shout out to the dedicated men and women who are on the front lines everyday helping protect our natural resources, ensuring they are available to all.
Photo of The Waynesboro Game and Fish Protective Association hosts a table at the Augusta County Fair every year. (Courtesy Kenny Wilkinson)