Summer is here with intense heat and we are all reminded why we love the SouthCoast’s unique combination of woods, farms, riverways and ocean! And, because of land preservation work across the bay, we can enjoy the heat while having fun in Buzzards Bay or any of its freshwater tributaries. We also have extensive forest cover to shade ourselves from the sun, while still enjoying time outdoors. When we say land preservation is focused on quality of life and can be key to community health, we think of times like this!
characteristics of Land Preservation
The preservation of contiguous tracts of forestland, full of native plants and trees help cool and clean the air and provide much needed shade from the intense sun.
The preservation of wetlands, and key watersheds, keeps aquifers from running dry and threatening water supplies in a community that relies on wells.
Evaporation of freshwater streams, wetlands, the river, and the bay all help cool the air on the coastline, keeping temperatures lower than even a few miles inland. And of course, those rivers and ocean beaches provide hours of outdoor fun!
The heat can be hard on crops and the farmers who tend them. However, local farms means you can pick up local food practically on your doorstep, conserving nutrient density and lowering transportation costs.
These are just some of the key characteristics of land preservation that add to our everyday lives. While it is important to be prudent in the heat, avoid the sun for too long, lower your energy exertion, it is also important to remember getting outside for fresh air should happen every day. Also, I hear blueberries like the heat, so get out and pick some early morning or late afternoon and enjoy!
