DOGS RESEEDING A FOREST THAT HAS BEEN LEFT MUDDIED DUE TO FOOTFALL
Source & Image from Positive News
In a wonderful environmental initiative, a nature reserve near Lewes in East Sussex is being regenerated by dogs who have been equipped with rucksacks filled with wildflower seeds.
Before they were driven to extinction in the 18th century, wolves used to unwittingly distribute seeds that attached to their fur which created new colonies of wild flora.
Now, local dog walkers with the help of their canine companions are able to fulfil this gap in the ecosystem by simply walking their dogs.
Project manager and ecologist, Dylan Walker said, “Dog walkers often get bad press when walking in the countryside, so we’re so pleased to tell a story in which dogs and their owners are the stars. It’s been a huge success in terms of engaging with the local community, including people who might walk through the reserve, but aren’t necessarily knowledgeable about nature. And, of course, there’s the seed germination, which we’re starting to see a little bit of.”
The initiative was inspired by a similar project in Chile where a huge forest fire destroyed most of the trees and the flora. Two sisters came up with the initiative of using their Labradors to distribute new seeds to the area bringing life to the destroyed area.
As a dog loving team, this story really made us smile.
The original initiative in Chile, by BBC News
80% LESS PLASTIC BAGS ON UK BEACHES SINCE THE PLASTIC BAG CHARGE
We might have all complained a little about the “inconvenience” of forgetting to bring your bags for life to the supermarket and incurring a charge, however, the plastic bag scheme, launched in the UK in 2015 is now demonstrating its effectiveness and benefitting our natural environment.
According to figures from the Marine Conservation Society, who has been conducting beach litter surveys for 30 years, there is now an 80% reduction in the number of single-use plastic bags washing up on UK beaches since the charge came in.
While there is still a lot of work to be done on single-use plastic which is still affecting the ecosystem, this finding brings a lot of joy, especially to those of us who spend a lot of time on our beaches.
Source Marine Conservation Society
LOUANN KENT, A VISUALLY IMPAIRED WOMAN DOES A SKYDIVE FOR CHARITY
Louann Kent is a visually impaired mother of two who was blessed with a guide dog, Ugo to help her with her daily duties. Ever grateful for the Guide Dog charity, Louann has embarked on a skydive to raise funds so others can benefit from their work. She credits Ugo with providing her with her independence and a new lease of life after gradually losing her sight due to myopia.
I used to have to pick my children up from nursery and I couldn't see in the dark.
"I can always remember walking back and trying to avoid all the bushes. There were lots of difficult times."
In 2017, Louann was partnered with Ugo and the challenge of everyday trips was diminished.
I can always remember the day I did it all on my own and the feeling was amazing, to be able to take him to school, drop him off and come home on my own," she said. "My heart was beating all the way, it was pounding out my chest, it was so scary. But that feeling of doing it, walking on your own, normally at a normal walking pace, it's amazing."
Louanne carried out the tandem skydive at the end of July and has raised just under £2,000 to support others who would benefit from their own Ugo.
Louann’s GoFundMe page is still open if you wish to support her and others with visual impairment.
Source - BBC News
THE HADRIAN WALL SYCAMORE SHOWS SIGNS OF NEW LIFE.
It was a gut wrenching news story - the completely pointless destruction of something so beautiful and loved. When the iconic sycamore that sat perfectly symmetrically in the gap at Hadrian's Wall was illegally cut down, all of us were enraged.
In Egyptian mythology, the sycamore was idolised as the symbol for life, representing immortality and spiritual enlightening, and it appears that eternal life may be on the cards. The sycamore has begun to grow new shoots, and while we are many years away from the tree returning to its former glory, it is heartening to know that it was not completely destroyed by the mindless act.
The regrowth was spotted by Northumberland National Park Authority ranger, Gary Pickles, as part of routine checks in the area.
“My job as ranger for Hadrian’s Wall Path is all about conserving the past. So, in my head I had consigned the tree to history and so I am amazed and delighted that it may have a future after all and is making a go of it.”
Sunday Inspiration
Favourite Podcast
The Good Life Project draws upon the life experience of leading voices from Brené Brown, Mel Robbins, Matthew McConaughy and many more. The Project focusses on a holistic approach to fulfilment and it will leave you feeling inspired to make those small changes towards a better life.
Book of the Week
The Power of Positive Thinking - Norman Vincent Peale
The book that pioneered "positive thinking". Dr Norman Peale gives practical, timeless tips to encourage a fulfilled life through the actions you take and the belief that you have in them.
Song of the Week
Keep Your Head Up by Ben Howard
In case we haven't yet lifted your spirits this Sunday, Ben Howard's 2012 song delivers an upbeat message about staying positive and perseverance.
