#environmental conservation and preservation

[don-lichterman]

California debates listing western Joshua tree as threatened | Science News

California debates listing western Joshua tree as threatened | Science News

By KATHLEEN RONAYNE – Associated Press SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — California officials are weighing whether to list the iconic western Joshua tree as a threatened species, a designation that would make it harder to remove the trees for housing, solar or other development projects. The desert plant is known for its unique appearance, with spiky leaves on the end of its branches, is found in the…

[plantsplantscoffee]

This blog is to share my journey to follow the main ideas of these books (just to start):

1. Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer

2. Sand County Almanac by Aldo Leopold

3. The Omnivore’s Dilemma by Michael Pollan

[ellieenderling]

Fort Santiago: A Citadel of Colorful History

Compiled and edited by: Princess Hernandez

The Fort Santiago Gate (Credits: Juliana Kate Advincula)

Profile by Juliana Kate Advincula Looking for a place to date, roam around, or relax? Let’s go and visit Fort Santiago, located at Intramuros, Manila! This might be one of the perfect spots inside the walled city as it is prominent for its remarkable history and calming ambiance. According to the Republic of the Philippines (Intramuros Administration), today, it serves as a landmark and a national shrine (Dy, 2020). Numerous historical occurrences from the pre-Hispanic and colonial periods, as well as the people's fight for independence, have been documented by Fort Santiago. As soon as you enter the site, you will already notice the vast greenery by Plaza Moriones. Moreover, the area has dealt with numerous wars; hence, you will see the physical damage to the structures around it. However, given the several devastated buildings, some were restored, and some have stood the test of time. Furthermore, it contains relics from the Spanish era and medieval dungeons that will offer visitors a realistic impression of life during the Philippine revolution. It also houses a museum of Dr. Jose Rizal, also known as Rizal Shrine, which increases the point of interest for people who wish to visit this renowned landmark. 

Rizal's statue in Fort Santiago (Credits: Vivien Florence Limon, taken on August 17, 2022)

Brief History by Amberdawn Rosario One of Manila's first cornerbacks, Fort Santiago, was constructed by the Spanish in 1571 on the site of Rajah Soliman's palisaded fortress made of logs and earth on the Maynila native village (Guides to The Philippines, n.d.). The colonizers understood the strategic importance of the land tongue where the Pasig River entered Manila Bay (Guides to The Philippines, n.d.). Following the designation of Fort Santiago as a Shrine of Freedom, restoration work started. It now serves as a memorial to the WWII casualties and the Filipino people's sacrifices in the fight for freedom (Guides to The Philippines, n.d.). Chinese pirates led by Limahong destroyed the old fort, constructed of wood and earth, in 1574 (Guides to The Philippines, n.d.). Between 1589 and 1592, it was reconstructed using carved stones and mud cement, but a violent earthquake in 1645 severely damaged the majority of the building once more (Guides to The Philippines, n.d.). The Spaniards rebuilt the stronghold between 1658 and 1663 (Guides to The Philippines, n.d.). The British invaded in 1762 and used Fort Santiago as their capital during their reign until 1764 (Guides to The Philippines, n.d.). In 1778, the Americans arrived and renovated the fort, which later served as the command center for the U.S. Army's Philippines Division (Guides to The Philippines, n.d.). In 1942, during World War II, the Japanese invaded the Philippines and used the fort as a military outpost and prison (Guides to The Philippines, n.d.). It is alleged that they held and tortured 2,500 and 3,000 Americans and Filipinos at the location (Guides to The Philippines, n.d.). The U.S. Liberation Forces also attacked the Japanese in 1945, severely damaging the fort. It then operated as a U.S. depot. Later, Transportation Corps. In 1946, the U.S. Military handed the bastion over to the Philippine government, and in 1950, it was designated as a Shrine of Freedom (Guides to The Philippines, n.d.). The fort was renovated a year later by the National Park Development Committee before being given to the Intramuros Administration in 1992 (Guides to The Philippines, n.d.). Additionally, the stone fort, constructed between 1589 and 1592 but devastated by the earthquake of 1645, was later expanded and repaired (Guides to The Philippines, n.d.). The fort served as the headquarters for the Spanish, British, American, and Japanese occupation troops and a detention facility for soldiers, civilians, and minors (Guides to The Philippines, n.d.). One of the top tourist attractions in our area is Intramuros, which is significant to our nation's history. The Walled City is the name of the neighborhood, which is the oldest. When Spain colonized the Philippines, it served as the country's capital (Guides to The Philippines, n.d.).

Rizal's Prison Cell in Fort Santiago (Credits to: Vivien Florence Limon, taken on August 17, 2022)

Current Situation by Razdale Baroña The site has now become the memorial ground for the people who fought for the freedom of the country and the victims of World War II (Dy, 2020). Currently, Fort Santiago is still existing and it is now a very known tourist spot in the Philippines. The infrastructure was restored after being declared the Shrine of Freedom in 1950 (Dy, 2020). A ticket booth and security booth can be seen at the site's entrance. A Visitors' Center is also located in the 10 Baluartillo de San Francisco Javier chambers (Dy, 2020). Other places on the site, like Almacenes Reales, Plaza Moriones, Baluartillo de San Francisco, Moat, Fort Santiago Gate, Reducto de San Francisco Javier, Baluarte de San Miguel, Medio Baluarte de San Francisco, Plaza de Armas, Baluarte de Santa Barbara, etc. are still being taken care of (Dy, 2020). Museo ni Rizal, where the building’s right wing is Rizal’s prison cell, is also made to commemorate Jose Rizal (Dy, 2020).

One of the Fort Santiago dungeons (Credits: Juliana Kate Advincula, taken on August 1, 2022)

Significance to History by Vivienne Florence Limon As a fortress erected under Spanish conquistador Miguel López de Legazpi to create the new city of Manila, this defense stronghold has become one of the fortifications within Manila's walled city, identified as Intramuros (Fernando, 2020). Hence, with all of the previous events in mind, knowing about the history of Fort Santiago is such a significant impact on the Filipinos to have respect and insights about what happened in the past as the place where it happened is still standing up until now. It serves as an existing reminder of the past glories and downfalls of the Philippines, whether it be in the reconstructed architecture, the people imprisoned within its cells, the horrendous matters that took place within its walls, or the victories that originated from it. Its existence significantly highlights all the efforts and deeds, whether peaceful or violent, made to successfully achieve the freedom the Filipinos enjoy today; hence, it is widely revered and visited by many people to appreciate its beauty and colorful history.

Gallery

A picture of the statues of the prisoners then in Fort Santiago (Credits to: Razdale Baroña, taken on March 12, 2020)

Plaza Moriones (Credits: Amberdawn Rosario, taken on December 7, 2019)

Some barrack ruins in Fort Santiago (Credits: Princess Hernandez, taken on January 10, 2023)

References

Dy, I. (2020). Republic of the Philippines Intramuros Administration. Intramuros Administration. https://intramuros.gov.ph/fs/.

Fernando, C., (2020). Fort Santiago: Guide for Travelers to Explore Beyond Its Gates After Dark. Zen Rooms. https://www.zenrooms.com/blog/fort-santiago/

Guides to The Philippines. (n.d.). Fort Santiago. https://guidetothephilippines.ph/destinations-and-attractions/fort-santiago-1

[reportwire]

Sibling unease dogs Prince William's 'Earthshot' US trip

Sibling unease dogs Prince William’s ‘Earthshot’ US trip

LONDON — Prince William and the Princess of Wales will be looking to focus attention on their Earthshot Prize for environmental innovators when they make their first visit to the U.S. in eight years this week, a trip likely to be dogged by tensions with Prince Harry and his wife, Meghan, who have criticized Britain’s royal family in the American media. William and his wife, Catherine, will travel…

[covenawhite66]

West African countries such as Liberia, Senegal and Guinea-Bissau, communities have designated biodiversity hotspots, including forests and lagoons, as sacred. This system has served as a conservation tool respected by these communities for generations. The community's existence is intricately linked to the well-being and survival of the biodiversity and natural resources surrounding it.

The Western African method is to reinforce communal stewardship of the land, rather than ownership. The system starkly contrasts with some current, non-Indigenous North American methods of prohibiting humans from living in certain protected areas. Placing a dollar value on conserving these areas risks destroying the very belief system and way of thinking that have ensured their survival in the first place. Their value of biodiversity cannot be translated into monetary terms.

[mtsainthelens]

LETS GOOOOO

[nelson-and-friends]

I'm posting here because I need to advertise like a little bit.

Hi! We out at the Unovan Conservation Center (UCC) and the Pokémon Environmental Protection Agency (PEPA) are asking for donations and funding for the Entralink Preserve, located in central Unova.

Though not open to the public, we care for many endangered Pokémon, and even some Pokémon that are extinct in the wild. While most of the Pokémon in this preserve are native to the Unova region, we take care of a couple endangered or extinct Pokémon from other regions, such as Hoenn's Relicanth, Kanto's Lapras, Kabuto, and Omanyte, Kalos' Aurorus, Sinnoh's ancient Braviary and Zoroark, and Paldea's Great Tusk, Brute Bonnet, and Slither Wing.

Recently we have been going over the daily budget just trying to feed these Pokémon and pay the small amount of people that work here. Our requests to the Unovan government to increase the budget has continually been met with no's. So, we are asking for any amount of donations to keep the Entralink Preserve up and running.

You can donate HERE, and sign a petition to up our government funding HERE.

Below is a short video exploring a small section of the Entralink Preserve.

[Fading in from black is a wooded scene. On the ground, sleeping curled up in a ball is a giant, old Eelektross. It is over triple the size of the average Eelektross. It is curled up around a baby Frillish. A deep voice starts to speak.

"Hi, I'm Pokémon Ranger Speck, and I'm here to show off a bit of the Entralink Preserve. I'm currently in the Unovan section, the largest section of the preserve. Right in front of me we have great-granny Elle, our elder alpha Eelektross. She's curled up around baby Liffy, her great-grandchild. A little known fact in Unova: Alpha Pokémon weren't just rumors or legends, they were real! Under intense stress for a period of time, a Pokémon would grow stronger and bigger, just like Elle here. Today's Pokémon have 'traditionally' evolved to no longer need Alpha Pokémon.

"Elle here is the last Alpha of her kind, though her children still exhibit traits of Alpha Pokémon, such as being much larger than the rest of their species, and increased strength from birth, though those traits get weaker and weaker with each generation.

"Elle is also the oldest living Pokémon in our care, being several hundred years old. Imagine that! Well, let's move onto someone else."

The camera cuts to a new scene. This scene is a grassy clearing, with a large tree in the center. In the tree is numerous Archen, as well as a single Archeops.

"This is Bird Tree. Our Archen all live here, as well as their adoptive mother, Eliza, our Archeops. Eliza takes care of all of the Archen here. Right girl?"

The Archeops in the tree "caws" loudly.

"Eliza here wasn't actually revived from a fossil: she was found here many years ago as one of the last living Archen. She's a survivor, and that definitely shows in her personality.

"Well, that ends this little showcase of the Entralink Preserve." A thumbs up appears in front of the camera as a link shows up on screen. "Please donate! We're pretty understaffed here, and we don't get enough funding from the government. You can donate at the link on screen, or look up 'Entralink Preserve' on the internet! Thank you for watching!"]

[wachinyeya]

Couple Plants 2 Million Trees in 20 Years to Restore A Destroyed Forest and Even the Animals Have Returned https://www.goodnewsnetwork.org/couple-plants-2-million-trees-in-20-years-to-restore-a-destroyed-forest-and-even-the-animals-have-returned/

[delicatelysublimeforester]

The Urgency of National Wildlife Week: A Call to Action for Biodiversity Preservation

[autistic-fandom-trash]

So I found this petition to help protect forests that you can sign here, you can also get to it through the optional chapter in Monument Valley 2.

[howdoesone]

How does one invite a Saola to a unicorn-themed party?

Introduction to the Saola: The Real-Life Unicorn The Saola, often referred to as the “Asian unicorn,” is one of the most elusive and mystical creatures in the animal kingdom. Discovered only in 1992 in the Annamite Range of Vietnam and Laos, the Saola has captivated the imaginations of scientists and animal lovers alike. With its long, slender horns and gentle demeanor, it’s easy to see why it…

[don-lichterman]

Australia losing animals, natural land as environment decays | Business News

Australia losing animals, natural land as environment decays | Business News

If you know of local business openings or closings, please notify us here. PREVIOUS OPENINGS AND CLOSINGS · Jimmy’s Barbershop in Allentown has moved to 822 N. 19th Street · Air Products and Chemicals Inc.’s chosen warehouse developer, Prologis Inc., will have to wait until July 13 for a final decision by Upper Macungie Township’s zoning hearing board on 2.61 million square feet of warehouses.  ·…

[sandhya17]

Sparrows are important!

[reportwire]

Boat hits channel marker off Miami, injures 11 people

Boat hits channel marker off Miami, injures 11 people

2022-09-05 06:10:51 BOCA CHITA KEY, Fla. — Four people suffered critical injuries when a boat hit a channel marker near Boca Chita Key and capsized, officials said. Eleven of the 14 people on the boat were injured in the crash that happened just before 7 p.m. Sunday, Miami-Dade Fire Rescue said in a news release. The agency sent more than 10 units to the scene and worked alongside Miami-Dade…

[mapecl-stories]

Wings in the Shadow of Grief

Monarcho bravely flew through the dense forests of the North and encountered Luna, an elegant companion with iridescent wings. "Who are you, noble butterfly, and where does your flight lead you?" inquired Monarcho. Luna, enveloped in golden sunbeams, replied, "I am Luna, on a journey to the southern paradise. My heart longs for the warm realms of Michoacán."

The two butterflies continued to fly side by side, exchanging their stories. "I feel a special connection to a hero named Homero Gómez González," shared Monarcho. "Have you heard of him, Luna?"

Luna respectfully inclined her wings. "Yes, Homero is known in the butterfly lands. A brave protector of our kind. His name is carried from flower to flower, like a gentle breeze."

The majestic mountains that Monarcho crossed provided an epic backdrop to their flights. As they approached the El Rosario Butterfly Preserve, Monarcho felt the tension in the air. Luna whispered, "We are entering a realm of change, Monarcho. Here, the paths of nature and humanity intersect."

In a poignant scene, the two butterflies observed Homero's patrols. Luna said, "Homero fights with a courageous heart. But humanity is a complex being, and nature suffers from its decisions."

In the El Rosario Butterfly Preserve, Homero and a group of passionate environmentalists gathered. "Friends," began Homero, "the Monarch butterflies are not just butterflies; they are a symbol of the fragility of nature. We must unite our forces to protect them from the deforestation threatening their home."

Elena, an experienced environmentalist, stepped forward. "Homero, we know the dangers are real, but we are here to stand side by side with you. Nature needs our voices, and we must raise them loud and clear."

A young activist named Diego added, "We must not only protect the Monarch butterflies but also the forests themselves. They are our common heritage, and it is our responsibility to preserve them for future generations."

Homero nodded in agreement. "Let us form patrols, launch information campaigns, and raise awareness in the community. Together, we can ignite a movement that protects not only the Monarch butterflies but also our habitat."

The environmentalists exchanged looks of determination, and Maria, a naturalist, suggested, "Let us also speak with the local communities, Homero. If we can win them over to the beauty and significance of these forests, they will support us."

Homero smiled gratefully. "You are right. The connection between humans and nature is crucial. Together, we can unleash a force stronger than any threat. Let us embark on this mission in the name of the Monarch butterflies and our planet."

The environmentalists raised their hands in unity, and in this dialogue, the seed of a movement was planted, aiming to protect not only the Monarch butterflies but also the forests of Michoacán.

Night descended over the El Rosario Butterfly Preserve as Monarcho and Luna, burdened by the sad news, floated across the sky. The moon cast gentle shadows on their shimmering wings.

The two butterflies decided to take a pause in a secluded part of the forest to gather their thoughts. In a quiet dialogue between them, Monarcho spoke, "Luna, Homero was a hero. His courage will live on in our wings, but we must also be vigilant. The danger is real."

Luna nodded sadly. "Yes, Monarcho. Our mission is more important than ever. The Monarch butterflies and nature need us. But we must proceed wisely to avoid the same fate."

While the two butterflies lingered in the silence of the forest, threatening sounds suddenly echoed. A shadow approached, and a rough voice said, "You are no strangers, you little fluttering beings. You have seen and heard too much."

A member of the drug cartel emerged from the darkness, eyes cold and sinister. Monarcho and Luna felt the danger in the air. In a desperate dialogue, they tried to plead their innocence, but their words faded in the impenetrable thicket of the threat.

Suddenly, the silence was pierced by a painful scream. Homero Gómez González, the hero of the El Rosario Butterfly Preserve, was silenced by the darkness of the forest. Monarcho and Luna witnessed with horror as the drug cartel silenced the voice of nature.

The forest, once filled with life and beauty, became a witness to a terrible crime. Monarcho and Luna, marked by sorrow and anger, fluttered away, carrying their mission even more resolutely in their hearts.

The story of the Monarch butterflies and their brave protector took a dark turn. Yet, in the wings of the butterflies, the flame of resistance and protection continued to burn. Monarcho and Luna vowed that the Earth would know their story and that the legacy of Homero Gómez González would never extinguish in the wings of the Monarch butterflies.

Oh heavenly Father,

We pray to You for Homero Gómez González, a heroic protector of the Monarch butterflies. Bless his soul, may his sacrifice be recognized and valued. Comfort the grieving hearts.

May the delicate wings of the Monarch butterflies dance in Your light, bearing witness to Your creation. Inspire us through Homero's devotion to be good stewards of nature, for the generations to come and to the honor of Your sacred work.

Through Jesus Christ, our Redeemer, we pray.

Amen.

[livelocalorganic]

Creating A Greener Future with Sustainable Farming

Introduction Welcome to our blog post on creating a greener future with sustainable farming. In this article, we will explore the importance of sustainable farming practices and how they contribute to a healthier environment. We will also discuss the benefits of organic farming for health-conscious consumers and the positive impact it has on supporting local businesses. Join us on this journey…