Sticking Our Necks Out For Mother Earth
Every April 22nd, Earth Day reminds us to stick our necks out for the planet. Since 1970, Earth Day has inspired millions to restore, protect, and celebrate the natural world.
Did you know the very first Earth Day in 1970 brought together 20 million Americans—10% of the U.S. population at the time—to demand better environmental protections? Today, Earth Day is celebrated in over 190 countries!
At TurtleClub.us, we believe every Turtle can make a difference—by taking small steps that add up to big change.
How can you celebrate Earth Day?
- Plant something green—trees, flowers, or veggies.
- Reduce, reuse, and recycle to cut down on waste.
- Clean up your neighborhood or favorite park.
- Support sustainable products and local farmers.
- Conserve water and energy at home.
- Share what you learn about sustainability with friends and family.
- Start a compost bin—nature’s way of recycling!
- Write a letter to your local representative supporting green initiatives.
Photo by the Associated Press. Pictured is Dave working in the hemp field. In Dave’s youth, he had one failed attempt to grow some Cannabis Sativa, but his mom had other ideas for how to spend his time. This project was an amazing experience.
Dave Works On A Green Initiative
Master Imperial Turtle Dave was asked to help organize an educational event for farmers late in 2018, just after the passing of the 2018 US Farm Bill.
This work was right in his wheelhouse, and the topic was intriguing. A Michigan State Senator spoke at the event to explain the growing program and benefits to farmers. Overall, the event was a success, and over the next year, Dave and the iHemp Michigan tribe dove deep into learning about growing, processing, and formulating products. Dave even talked his business partner into renting an acre of land to grow hemp. Just one acre was a major undertaking. A crew was raised to plant 3,000 seedlings on an acre.
Over 14 events were hosted by iHemp Michigan, including one in Iowa. We shared knowledge and dreams as we built our community of friends and growers. We learned about plant spacing, nutrients, trimming, pulling males, and then harvesting, drying, and processing. The learning process and community we gathered were intoxicating and fun. A result of the work created a non-profit, iHemp Michigan, where Dave serves on the board of directors.
Here is a video by the Associated Press that shows Dave and fellow Turtle, Jeff, working on the hemp harvest, starting at 2:29 mark.
