Pulling off a vacation with three teenagers is hard these days.  Their schedules are so busy that finding time together is rare, but we managed to have three days this week and we jumped at the chance.  This trip reminded me why the organic message is so important. 

We camped in a place called Cherry Springs, the darkest place in PA.  My husband, a star enthusiast, brought his telescope and we set it up for star viewing.  We were the only people in this rustic camp ground (no showers).  As such, we were privileged to see a wildlife show in person.  We saw two bears walking up the road, many deer, a cedar waxwing, redtailed hawks,  and a woodpecker that sounded like a squeaky toy.  At night we heard barred owls calling to each other and killdeer.  Coyotes surrounded us, howling and calling in a mad chorus, stopping abruptly as they started.  We walked along streams that were so clear you could see insects walking on the stream bed underwater.

To preserve these beautiful wild places, here is the message we need to be getting out:  Products that are grown without pesticides and herbicides do much less harm to the environment.  Products that are organic and locally grown are even better.  Shopping wisely can reduce the impact we have on wild areas.  In addition, it’s important to educate people about how their lifestyles could bring an end to wild places.

If you’re able to this summer, get out and enjoy a wild place.  Leave no trace and come back to spread the message “Go Organic”.