Peaceful, earthy feeling

Going through this week’s issue of CN&R, you’ll find a common thread.

You’ll get transported to the Alaskan coastline for a summer of salmon fishing in the great outdoors.

You’ll see commentary about water resources and an editorial about global warming.

You’ll learn about environmentally friendly flatware and spend 15 minutes with an eco-activist.

These salutes to Mother Nature aren’t an accident. They’re all connected to Earth Day, which by now you probably know is Saturday the 22nd.

Overkill? Too much of a good thing?

I don’t think so—and based on what I’m learning of Chico, odds are good that you don’t think so, either.

We are blessed with beautiful surroundings, and we appreciate what we have.

It’s one thing to celebrate Earth Day when you live in a smoggy metroplex. There, a long nature hike usually comes only after an unnaturally long drive. There’s more wood in home frames than trees. Wildflowers are the dandelions that get doused with weed killer.

Mother Earth, mostly buried by cement and civilization, seems an absentee matriarch and the urbanites and suburbanites her latchkey kids.

Here, Earth Day is less abstract.

Drive through Chico, even downtown, and you won’t go far without seeing natural wonders. Bidwell Park alone comprises more woodland than many municipalities have altogether. Head along the Skyway, and you’ll see a California version of the Grand Canyon, resplendent in green, plus panoramic views of our lush valley. Bike along Honey Run and savor the exercise and experience.

Maybe it’s just a newcomer’s wonder that has me waxing poetic. But based on the passion and variety of conservationists I encounter, I have plenty of wide-eyed company.

So, if you think we’ve gone overboard on greenery, please do me a favor. Check out the Alex Vue story, the entertainment reviews and Anthony Peyton Porter’s column. Then plop the issue in a recycle bin and have a happy Earth Day.