Earth Charter

"The resilience of the community of life and the well-being of humanity depend upon preserving a healthy biosphere with all its ecological systems, a rich variety of plants and animals, fertile soils, pure waters, and clean air." -The Earth Charter

The beauty of Earth is hidden behind the veils of disaster that wrap from ecosystem to ecosystem. Each ecosystem fighting it's own battle against human destruction and natural disasters that are different from their evolution of life. Even with these disasters, the ecosystems have an unexplainable beauty that only the species living in that ecosystem know how to maintain. The fertility of soils and biodiversity of species has evolved into the grandest collage that cannot be compared to anything else like it. We should preserve this biodiversity in order to maintain a stable ecosystem. Nothing like it can be created, therefore, we should take care of what we have before it slips from our hands. 

http://www.theguardian.com/environment/2010/sep/28/price-biodiversity-species-worth-cop10

"The benefits of development are not shared equitably and the gap between rich and poor is widening. Injustice, poverty, ignorance, and violent conflict are widespread and the cause of great suffering." -The Earth Charter

To know that this is the truth is quite depressing. Not for the reason that there is a large number of rich and poor, but to know that there is a line in between both of these classes. In other words, why should there be classes. Equality can lead us to a farther journey simply because it gives the perspective of humanity to others. Instead of trying to have the best of the best, we should be satisfied with simple things in life. There is no reason to characterize individuals because at the end of the day we are all here to perform the same task in our ecosystem. Therefore, we should stop the suffering by ending the categorization of individuals.

http://www.polyp.org.uk/wealth-poverty_cartoons/cartoons_about_wealth_and_poverty.html

"Recognize that all beings are interdependent and every form of life has value regardless of its worth to human beings."

Everything in this world has value regardless of what actions they perform on this planet. This is something that everyone should take under consideration because the avoidance of this has led to the problems that we face today. To know that everything plays a role in this world helps but complicates things when we are trying to research certain topics. To know that something as simple as a rock, can perform a variety of tasks is eye opening. For example, a rock can be the shelter for tiny insects and can be used for our advantage of crushing or cutting things. Various scientists have witnessed how everything has a role in this biosphere. They have learned to understand this because of the effects that have now been shown in our future from the changes that were performed in the past. We should learn from projects that have failed and learn that it is important to conserve and preserve as much as we can. 

http://www.keepcalm-o-matic.co.uk/p/keep-calm-and-be-a-tree-hugger/

Ted Talk- Stewart Brand: The Dawn of De-Extinction

The proposal of bringing back extinct species is a good proposal but should be reviewed very carefully. I will not lie it is thrilling to know that there is a possibility of bring back extinct species but I do have many concerns with it. I do not think that we should try and bring extinct species back to this biosphere, because it will threaten the act of conserving and preserving current species that are endangered. Individuals would not take action into trying to save the ecosystems and all of our efforts into persuading people to preserve the environment will wash down the drain. Stewart answered the question that was asked, he said, "when these species come back, then they might replace the species that are there." When he said this, I thought well we are doing the same thing already so why should it matter to bring back the species. It is not okay to bring back species because that will cause yet another shift for these animals. It is important to protect the species now and leave nature do it's own job instead of us trying to be nature and do it's job. Yes, we are responsible for some of these extinctions that have occurred but we need to learn from it and not do the same thing. 

http://www.funniestmemes.com/funny-memes-the-true-reason-the-dinosaurs-became-extinct/

Orr

"Third, it was necessary to quiet whatever remaining sympathy we had for nature in favor of "hard" data that could be weighed, measured, counted, and counted to make a profit." -Pg. 189

This quote reminded so much about a previous discussion that we had about the richness of products. As individuals we tend to look for the cheapest products that can perform the same task as an expensive product. Or the other aspect is that as an individual we want to be unique and try to show off our expensive and luxurious products. I am not saying that all are like this but sometimes we do get caught up in the type of products that we buy. Again it all comes down to the price that other professionals place on the object. It is either that they want to profit from this or they believe that they have extent knowledge on the object. Sometimes one may get carried away with the technology that we have today and we believe we know what we should know about objects. However, there has been instances where we find out that useless things play an important role in useful things. It is insane to think about where we have come to and how profit overcomes the natural substance and it's role in the biosphere.

http://sppiblog.org/tag/coral-reefs

"Proper use requires gratitude, humility, charity, and skill." -Pg. 192

The proper use of the environment requires all of these characteristics because they all have something in common, patience. The reason this is mentioned is because one must be patient because some species may take longer than others to reach it's full potential. The processes of nature are to be left alone because through their years of evolution the species know what it has to do in order to survive through a rough climate. The environment is humble because it does not take more than what it needs. Species only take what they need in order to survive for the season and then they go on and find something else. They have the skill to know what actions they need to take in order to survive from all types of disasters. Like the environmentalist from the Naples Preserve mentioned that when there is a fire and a tortoise needs to get across then it will follow the fire all the way down until there is a break in the fire and then passes through. Its amazing how they have developed the ability of knowing little things like this. A species knows what's best for themselves, therefore, individuals should not try to manipulate this  because they want to "help" the species out. Instead we should be grateful and thank them for the things they do, because without them we wouldn't be where we are today.

http://kids.discovery.com/tell-me/animals/mammals/big-bears

"Jay Gould (1991), "We cannot win this battle to save species and environments without forging an emotional bond between ourselves and nature as well--for we will not fight to save what we do not love"(p.14). -Pg. 197

Reading this quote allowed me to understand exactly what I have been trying to figure out this whole time. It is the bond that allows one to care for others that will allow one to protect what they love. A connection that is unexplainable and that allows one to feel the escape of all negativity, in other words, their sense of place. It is that connection that proves to the person that they would do anything to protect it. It is just like in the book A Land Remembered, how Zech cried when his parents property was remodeled. This event allowed Zech to open his eyes of what Toby felt when he found out that Zech had tore down the custard apple forest. It's events like these that allow us to realize what we truly love. We fight for what we love and there is no stopping us. We should consider this and learn to love nature because without it we won't be able to survive.

http://www.bewallpaper.com/free-nature-love-desktop/

Field Trip Reflection

The field trip that made the biggest impression on me was the CREW field trip. The field trip expanded my sense of place and confirmed it because it reminded me so much of Mexico. Certain areas that were green and full of life and some areas were dry and brown. These different areas reminded of my favorite parts of Mexico, which is my hometown Zimapan, Hidalgo and my uncle's hometown, Guadalcazar, San Luis Potosi. As I stepped on the property, I felt this rush through my body in which I felt safe, relaxed, and happy. A feeling in which I was in a completely different world, away from all technological devices, media, and negativity. As we walked through the trail, I was fascinated to learn about the environment such as the prairies, swamps, and cypress domes. Observing my surrounds I saw all the small characteristics that are not usually seen in the city. Looking at all of the snake holes, or the way each plant species adapted and showed its natural beauty that can be seen as soon as one takes a step back from that fast life that most individuals now live. The experience led to an understanding that life's beauty is simple and can be the most exotic. The simple life is seen as the environment itself as it can sustain itself without the assistance of humans. Meaning that it does not need the new technologies and modifications of environmental genetics for it to live. This impacted me in various ways for both the present and future. In regards with my present, this allowed me to confirm that my sense of place is being near the environment. It soothes me and comforts me by being surrounded by nature and all the living species around me. It has helped me open my eyes that we should preserve our environment because without it then we will make our life harder. For example, cellular respiration and photosynthesis work hand in hand. Without one, the other will not be able to function. Well if we are without the environment then we would not be able to survive or we would struggle to survive. This allowed me to act now to change certain ways of my life in order to save and preserve the environment. In regards with my future, it allows me be more open and teach the future generations the same things that I have been taught. Another addition is that whenever I feel stressed or living the "on the go" life I can go to these areas and take a step back and enjoy nature as it soothes and comforts me. There is no need of staying at five star hotels or a resort in order to feel relaxed. On the contrary with a simple run on a nature trail or watching the sunset on a vast land full of wildlife and the natural surrounds tops all of these luxury resorts. It just amazes because before this field trip I was trying to be someone I am not. Someone that was interested in brands, fine dinning, and having luxury items. When I stepped on these grounds, it was brought to my attention that I am not that type of girl. All of these luxury items have no meaning and they come and go. Unlike the simple natural things that can be cherished for years to come. The simplicity of life makes things less complicated and allowed me to fulfill the emptiness that I have been carrying for the last year. This brings a thought to mind that Goodall had mentioned in regards with the chimps. She has said that they had to thank the chimps because of them they were able to make the life changes in the villages. Well in my case, I would like to thank my mother's struggle, because without that I would have not transferred universities and I would have not taken University Colloquium. Without this class, I would not have found my sense of place and I would not have had the opportunity of me taking a step back and appreciating the simple life that I once lived.

Mexico Trip on January 23, 2014. Zimapan, Hidalgo. Taken by Jennifer Trejo. 

Mexico trip on January 23, 2014. Zimapan, Hidalgo. Taken by Brianda Martinez.

CREW Field Trip on February 26, 2014. Taken by Brianda Martinez

Guadalcazar, San Luis Potosi. 

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=368972&page=23

Goodall

"Before I left Sudbury, I had the joy of releasing a brook trout into the clean water of a stream that had, until recently, been dank, poisoned, lifeless." -Pg. 165

Reading this quote I pictured a grey lifeless area that magically turned to color as soon as the brook trout was released. It's a beautiful thing to look at a positive change that was once thought to be impossible to do. This story of Sudbury, Ontario shows how logging and industrial pollution can degrade the biodiversity of life. From the producers to the consumers, there was a destruction that was not reversible until one person decided to make the change. This shows how powerful an individual can be with regards of change. This example can show others that they should not be afraid to try and change the ecosystem for the better. It is hard to change towards an eco-friendly life but in the long run it shows that it does change things. Therefore, one should change certain ways so they do not deplete their ecosystem just like the case in Ontario.

http://www.themiraclejournal.com/2011/08/06/shifting-to-a-new-space/

"And there is hope for wildlife, too. It was decided from the start that there should be clear distinction between land designated for human use, and land that would be most valuable set aside to ensure, for example, protection of the watershed, soil stability, carbon sequestration, and biodiversity." -Pg. 169

The theory of setting aside land for both human use and the natural ecosystem is a great proposal. When planning land for human use and biodiversity the consideration of population increase should be considered. For instance, if we have land for human use and then the population expands then we would take the land that was once set aside for biodiversity. Therefore, the proposal of population control is something that should be taken under consideration. This does not mean to prohibit someone from pregnancy, but educate both men and women about family planning and show them ways to protect themselves if they do not wish to have a child. This is just like the following section that speaks about The Importance of Women. However, just because we show them does not mean that we ourselves should not follow the same tasks. At the end it comes down to stability and balancing everything out. So as a population we should take these precautions.

http://conservationbytes.com/2013/12/16/work-life-balance-can-academics-achieve-it/

"And," I said, "we must remember to thank the chimps. It was because of them that I came to Tanzania--and see what it has all led to!" -Pg. 172

It's incredible that the unknown has a journey that is thought to be intended for something else. Goodall would have never thought that this random project would have brought her to save the villages that were in dire need of help. She went there because of the chimps and she resulted with assisting villages. Who would have known that this would have transformed her life. Her journey was thought to be only assisting chimps but she performed something more grand than that. Therefore, we should learn that just because we want something to happen does not mean that destiny will play the same role. At times, we just have to go with our instinct and help with our first instinct.  Don't hold yourself back because sometimes your journey is meant to be something that you never thought would happen.

http://authorjenniferchase.com/2012/02/01/taking-the-journey-down-the-green-path/

Carson

“Then foxes barked in the hills and deer silently crossed the fields, half hidden in the mists of the fall mornings.” –Pg. 150

As I read this quote I pictured this scene and began to think about this beautiful scenery. Being a nature girl, I thought about how beautiful the surroundings appear and the sounds of purity fill the vast air. This scenery is not like the beach locations that surround Florida. This type of environment is located in the northern parts of Florida. It’s amazing to recognize the different types of ecosystems and how they each play the same role in one’s life. I say this because no matter where one may be located one feels the tranquility around them. The natural surroundings allow one to get away from the chaos and all of the network communications. Therefore, this gives the opportunity to be free and feel peace by the soothing sounds of nature. For instance, the cricket sounds, birds chirping, and the sound of the wind brushing in between the leaves. As well as feeling the air brush across one’s face and feeling the rays from the sunlight hit their skin. All of these sounds are like paradise and it is. It is located all around us and we should take advantage of it.

http://www.lbah.com/word/northern-michigan-wildlife/

“As Albert Schweitzer has said, “Man can hardly even recognize the devils of his own creation.” –Pg. 154

I have placed a lot of thought into the quote and it makes complete sense of our actions. As humans, we have the power to act according to what we think is best. Various times we are caught up in trying to act in the correct way and do not see the negative outcomes that may be taking place. It is an instinct for us to take care of what we love and treasure. Therefore, if it is threatened by anything our response is to protect it. For instance, a farmer loves his or her crops and will do anything to protect it. So if they have an infestation of pesticides they will act by killing off the pesticides. The pesticides will be killed but then they may become immune to the toxins which will lead to the farmer using higher doses. These chemicals would cause damage to other living organisms or may even leak into the aquifers. Hence, we do not notice that we are damaging ourselves in the long run. Once we notice that damages we do not take fault or we try to blame it on something else. Essentially I am trying to say that we need to realize what we are doing and take responsibility of our actions. It is something that will help in the long run and cause less damage.

http://www.change.org/petitions/tell-the-epa-stop-letting-pesticides-kill-honey-bees

“We train ecologists in our universities and even employ them in our governmental agencies but we seldom take their advice.” –Pg. 159

We seldom to take the advice of people who we train, because we prefer to go with our own beliefs. In order for us to completely understand this we must realize what we do ourselves. It is a process that involves two people to listen and to take each other’s advice. However, it is not mandatory for us to take the advice that is given. Even though it is not mandatory I feel like we should listen to the advice, because it may trigger another thought. The trigger could result in the ability to find distinct ways to approach the situation. However, I do not understand why one would not consider the advice that was given. Majority of ecologist have been taught by ecologists themselves and they do not take the advice that is given. It sounds redundant since they do not listen to the advice but yet they were the ones who are giving it. Therefore, one should listen and consider the advice so it can help in the long run. 

http://ninapaley.com/mimiandeunice/category/advice/

Shiva

“Biodiversity means the diversity of life—the richest diversity of life forms on our beautiful planet.” –Pg. 38

Biodiversity is the key that fits our whole planet together. Every species, action, and natural resource allows everything to come together and work as one. This unity is so fragile that with one simple change it will affect everything. It’s like a game of jenga. If one moves the wrong piece everything will tumble down, but the removal of a correct piece will allow stability. However, if one takes a step back and they open their eyes to the natural beauty that surrounds them it is incredible. The various colors of plants, animals, and natural resources are exquisite and nothing like it. For instance, there are various landscapes in the world that seem to be surreal. Examples of these landscapes are the Tunnel of Love in Ukraine, Antelope Canyon in Arizona, or the Japanese maple. All of these are gorgeous and to know that they arose from biodiversity is amazing.

http://www.naturepicoftheday.com/archive/2008-11-05

”Native Americans refer to other species as brothers and sisters.” –Pg. 40

Native Americans have been known for caring about their ecosystem as if it were a part of their family. This quote reminded me of the book A Land Remembered, because of the character Keith Tiger. Keith would take care of his land by not overusing his resources. Therefore, he would not deplete the natural resources around him. If it were a family member it is essentially the same concept. A family member is there when assistance is needed, however if one takes advantage of the member then he or she will no longer assist you. In regards with the species, if one uses it then their numbers will drop and cause possible extinction- in this case the species will no longer be able to assist one due to the possible extinction. Hence, one should not take advantage of the resources.

http://electronicvillage.blogspot.com/2010/09/wordless-wednesday-dinosaur-senior.html

“The extinction of a species means not just the loss of that particular species, but also a threat to the other species that are supported by it through ecological processes.” –Pg. 45

As I read further on from the quote a remembered our class discussion of the ecological pyramid. Our discussion involved the importance of each level and the affects of losing a level. Not only that, but we also discussed how the pyramid today seems like it is upside down due to overpopulation. It’s amazing to think that overpopulation can damage our ecosystem. As a growing population, we have been damaging certain levels of this pyramid which has caused a change in other populations. For instance, as mentioned in the reading microorganisms have been underestimated. As the higher species we have had the ability to kill some of these microorganisms, but in reality are we killing them or making them stronger. See, with one tiny microorganism we can become sick or even die due to its viral abilities. However, some microorganisms have the ability to treat us back to good health. This being said, who is the species that threatens? Neither, would be the answer because they all come in unison to live and support one another. Therefore, we should try to conserve species by letting them do as they have been for the past hundred years. We should allow them to live because as soon as we start to deplete a species we begin to alter the ecological pyramid. The alteration of the ecological pyramid could lead to a depletion of our species. 

http://www.googleplussuomi.com/timelinetest.php?googleid=109783903175191665261&limit=800

Diamond

1. “The past offers us a rich database from which we can learn, in order that we may keep on succeeding.” –Pg. 17

             Learning from the past is a way for one to determine whether their actions are correct or not. It is a lock to check whether the key fits, therefore, meaning that their decision was the right choice. However, how does one know whether they are making the correct choice? It is until we receive the result that indicates whether the choice was correct or not. Therefore, this allows me to think about our generation. We have database to learn from but we do not apply it. We have the education to learn how to preserve objects but we find ways to work around it, which end up depleting our ecosystem even more. I feel like we do not learn from our past and we end up causing more problems than what we began with. In certain situations we do not learn from the past but in certain situations we do. For instance, the Everglades are now preserved and before this was not in our mind. Hence, we can learn about the past in certain situations but we should consider them more often.

http://explanationrequired.blogspot.com/2010/07/lessons-learned-from-lion-king.html

2. “If this reasoning is correct, then our efforts today will determine the state of the world in which the current generation of children and young adults lives out their middle and late years.” –Pg. 22

             This quote has allowed me to think about the actions of our past generation and the actions of our present generation. Our past generations have performed mistakes but so has our present and future generation. We have learned and incorporated different eco-friendly tasks into our everyday lives, such as recycling. However, we continue to increase the greenhouse gases or the use of nonrenewable resources. Also numerous developmental plans continue to take place in wildlife areas. It’s scary to think that we are doing all these changes to help our economy, but little do we know that we are damaging ourselves in the long run. For instance, due to these changes future generations will not see the ecosystems that we have nor will they witness species that are soon to be extinct. It’s sad to know that future generations will not be able to witness this and even our present generations do not know much about the species in Florida. For instance, I know there is a lot more that I should know about Florida and I am guilty to have lived here my whole life. As a native Floridian I feel like I should know more than what I know.

http://blogs.trb.com/news/opinion/chanlowe/blog/environment/

3. “Even signs in hotel rooms now invoke love of the environment to make us feel guilty if we demand fresh towels or let the water run.” Pg. 24.

             This quote caught my attention, because in hotels that I have stayed at do have these signs. When I read them it reminds me of a lesson that my mother taught me. That is, to reuse and take care of objects that I have. Therefore, when I stay at hotels I reuse my towels and I do not ask for more than needed. This also brought a flashback with the book A Land Remembered. The scene where Tobias mentions that he does not take more than needed. I feel like more people should try and preserve, instead of trying to have more than required. Either way, I think this is a good idea so the population can remember that we need to limit the use of our resources. By preserving, it will cost less to restore what was depleted, because the damage is not as severe.

http://www.sodahead.com/united-states/do-you-equate-wealth-with-hard-work/question-1984667/?link=ibaf&q=&esrc=s

Plan B 4.0

1. "Beyond this, the owners of the world’s 910 million automobiles want to maintain their mobility, and most are not particularly concerned about whether their fuel comes from an oil well or a corn field." 

-Pg. 5. 

When reading this sentence I started to think about how much fuel I use and how I obtain my fuel. I will not lie that I also play a part into the consumption of gasoline. I believe it is absurd to think that we are not greedy when it comes to gasoline. As soon as prices rise we complain, but when prices are lowered we are happy not realizing that we consume more than necessary. We essentially drive ourselves into the increase in prices because we consume more than necessary allowing fuel to become scarce. Fuel becoming scarce is the reason why price is increased. From this being said, my family is from Hidalgo, Mexico. In Hidalgo, there are not many cars and many people either travel on foot or take a bus. Therefore, fuel efficiency is performed there. As a Mexican-American, I grew up with automobiles all around me and people constantly talking about fuel pricing. Comparing both of these lives, it brings a realization of how unnecessary it is to have automobiles or one should have fuel efficient cars or take the bus. The life style in Mexico shows that one can survive without a car, especially since this population lives in the middle of no where and the people have to climb mountain ranges. I'm not saying we should climb mountains or that we live in the same way, but we should consider fuel efficient tasks. This includes, walking to a location that is near by or even using a fuel efficient car or taking the bus.

http://verdavivo.wordpress.com/category/transportation/

2. "In Mexico—home to a population of 109 million that is projected to reach 129 million by 2050—the demand for water is outstripping supply." -Pg. 41.

The thought of Mexico's high population is a frighting thought. This means more people need water in order to survive. As a result more aquifers will be demanded. I had the opportunity to see changes in Mexico city and it amazes me of how many homes are built each time. In Mexico City it is surrounded by mountains and volcanoes. Having the ability to see how many homes keep filling these mountains to the top is astonishing. This means that the population is increasing faster than expected. Therefore, this increases the demand for food and water. It frightens me, because there will be a point where there is not enough food let alone water. Then what will we do if this happens or is there anything that can be done? Therefore, I think Mexico should try to find ways to maintain their population, as well as other countries.

Taken by: Brianda Martinez

Mexico City, Mexico 2011

Mexico City, Mexico 2013

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2401975/Amazing-aerial-photos-Mexico-City-natural-boundaries-stand-way.html

"Mounting population densities, once generated solely by population growth, are now also fueled by the relentless advance of deserts and may soon be affected by the projected rise in sea level." -Pg 51.

When I read this sentence, I thought about an article that I had read in a science magazine. It informed one about the increase in water levels and how the top cities in the United States would be below water. I remember the cities mentioned were Miami, Los Angeles, and New York. As I read through the article it mentioned that due to great effects of the climate it would change our ecosystems dramatically regardless of our clean up now. Therefore, this quote allowed me to think about how we need to act now to contain some damages. If we control population densities or at least change certain ways of life we would be able to contain some of the damages for our future generations. If we keep doing what we are doing, our next generations are the ones who will be in trouble. However, the thought of the most beautiful places in the world will be under water because we have fueled these catastrophes is a guilty feeling. Knowing that I played a role into this allows me to be motivated to change certain things that I do. 

http://www.jlconline.com/climate-change/miami-ponders-its-future-on-the-edge-of-a-higher-sea_o.aspx

A Land Remembered

Rather than selecting quotes from this story, choose a character from the book. Briefly describe who the character is and their role in the novel. How does the character relate to their environment and the natural world? What is the character’s sense of place and legacy? How do you relate to this character? What is your sense of place and how does this relate to the character? What is your legacy and how does it relate to the character? Compare and contrast.

The character that I choose is Zech, he is the Son of Emma and Tobias. His role in the story is to help his father with their cattle company and to assist his mom when needed. I feel like Zech is the closest one to nature. The way he treats his dogs, Nip and Tuck, and his horse Ishmael, is remarkable. He treats them as his family and they all become one according to different events of the story. Zech’s sense of place is in the swamp and handling all of animals. His legacy is to teach others that if you bring the natural world into your family there will be great outcomes. For instance, when Zech and Ishmael raced against Thunder it felt like Zech and Ishmael became one. The way the horse ran and the way Zech controlled his speed through caring and motivational words. It felt like Ishmael knew when Zech wanted him to go faster or slower. Due to this, they won the race and won property. I feel like I relate to this character through his love of the natural world. The way he treats the natural world is the same way I would. For instance, the way he protects his animal friends is the way I would if I was in his place. When my grandmother had her farm I would always protect and nurture the animals, because I felt like they were a part of my family. I feel like my sense of place is to teach others to appreciate the little things in life, including nature. As a child, I always loved to be out and take the initiative to teach others about natural life. Therefore, I feel like I can relate to Zech in various ways. His personality and his caring is the same as I. My legacy has always been to teach others that there is more to life than materialistic objects. For instance, as a child my Grandmother taught me to love the small things and to endure the natural world. Therefore, even though Zech learned that for himself we still share the same characteristic. The difference between him and I is that as a child he always appreciated everything around him. I learned this concept as a child but I had someone else teach me this. Overall, Zech is a great character and will remain to be regardless of his actions.

http://richardlpowers.vpweb.com/A-Land-Rem-Series-Orignials.html

Grunwald

1. "Gore would only pledge to seek "a balance solution" that would help the economy without harming the environment." -Pg. 83.

    From this quote one can see how Gore was for and against the environment. This shows how hard it was for him to choose a side, especially since he sent a research team to see how we would benefit. The good outcome was that the project of the airport was postponed, but he still did not stand up for the Everglades. There could have been changes towards saving the Everglades if he did stand up. This brings a thought about the species that are endangered. For instance, would the numbers of the Florida Panthers be higher if the Everglades would have been saved. It's a thought that shall remain unsolved. The only thing that one can do is try to conserve the species that still remain so they do not undergo extinction. Therefore, senators should be more informed with regards to the environment. This way they can make decisions with regards to an endangered community.



http://www.floridapanther.com/articles/FLORIDA%20PANTHER.htm


2. "Nobody has provided a compelling case that this is going to work", he blurted. "So far, it doesn't totally pass the smell test, if you want the honest truth." -Pg. 89.

    This quote was a slap to the face when I read it. The sense of not saving something because it does not show an advantage at the moment is ridiculous. The Everglades is an advantage to our ecosystem and should be saved. The advantage is the shelter for animals that we have evacuated due to our shelters. The other point is that he says "it doesn't totally pass the smell test", however, he does not think that cars do not pass the smell test with their release of CO. Yet,thanks to the many trees that habitat there our air is clean. Therefore, his comment should be reconsidered, because if it wasn't for this habitat we would be breathing polluted air.



http://www.123rf.com/photo_2448729_airplants-growing-on-cypress-trees-in-everglades-national-park-florida.html

3. "In 1983, restoring the natural health and function of this precious system seemed to be a distant dream," he said. "After seventeen years of bipartisan progress, we now stand on the brink of this dream becoming a reality." -Pg. 92.

    A dream becoming a reality is always memorable, especially when one has been fighting for it for so long. Their dream of restoring this system has followed through and is still going on today. As a student, I took a trip to the Everglades and I remember the staff mentioning that some areas were affected due to land building. They explained how species were affected and how urbanization has damaged  our ecosystem. The food chain was explained and how other communities are affected, which later on affected our ecosystem. Therefore, it's a great thing to know that Senator Graham passed on this program. This helps by getting the word out and motivating others to make a difference to save the Everglades.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hU0_tGHlR7g

Douglas

1. "The rock is not by any means the oldest in the world." -Pg. 123
             This quote compares a rock to the perdurable granite of the ancient Appalachian's. However, I took this quote to a deeper meaning. I tried to research the true meaning but I was not able to find anything. Therefore, I found this quote memorable for many reasons. At first when I read this I thought, well rocks have been here longer than we have. However, how would we know if many other substances could have been here way before that. Of course our world was not a ball of water or a ball of air. Yet, it would be cool to think that. I think of this as it is old but it may not be the only thing that is old. There are different substances that have the ability to form rocks such as mud or sand. It's amazing to know that different tests can be performed to know how long an object has been on this earth. Thanks to archeologists we have the ability to learn and know the length of an object. The fossils of different objects or species have allowed us to learn how long they were on this earth. It is amazing to know that we have this ability and hopefully with this knowledge we are able to understand that we should take care of our species before they reach extinction.

                                                   http://sugarmtnfarm.com/round-rock/

2. " The water is timeless, forever new and eternal." -Pg. 129
             This quote has so much description imbedded within itself. The beauty of water is that it is always around us whether in liquid, gas or solid form. It's ability to be an essential of life has great power. When thinking of water a river comes to mind. The flow of the river gives nutrients to different species and gives us the ability to transport substances from one location to another. A river is endless because it can flow into a large body of water. Therefore, forming into a new shape and constantly changing it's form. Water's eternal life is the greatest quality of all. Due to it's high boiling point and freezing point it is able to last eternally. Even though it's form does change it is still water. Water is needed for all life. We would not be able to survive without water. Therefore, water shall always be eternal.

                                             http://www.thetahoetrader.com/2013/07/water/

3. "These trees seem centuries old, and they are very old indeed, in spite of fire and hurricane." -Pg. 145
            This quote opened my eyes to the beauty of trees. It's amazing what they go through and they still have the ability to grow. Regardless of the weather it still has the ability to grow and reproduce as before. For instance, when a hurricane hits an area and it is damaged by being pulled out of the ground with the force of the winds. If one replants the tree then it will continue to grow as it did before. Or even to know a small seed can grow to be a large tree that will shade and provide nutrients for other species. It is amazing to know that it has this ability to do so much from a simple thing. Also, with regards to the fire some trees do need this to occur in order to receive more nutrients. The nutrients of the debris provide nutrients for better growth for itself and other surrounding plant species.

http://www.pearltrees.com/#/N-fa=3066546&N-u=1_299886&N-reveal=-3&N-play=0&N-f=1_3066546&N-s=1_3066546&N-p=37638370&N-pw=1

Leopold

1. "The ordinary citizen today assumes that science knows what makes the community clock tick; the scientist is equally sure that he does not." -Pg. 60.

I found this quote quite interesting since I am a science major. Throughout scientific history many scientist have tried solving or constructing formulas in regards with environmental sustainability and the population. Some have actually figured a way to see how much a certain resource will last until it is completely depleted. However, knowing that life undergoes many evolutionary changes, would there be a way for a certain resource to take the position of a depleted resource? Another thought comes to mind about scientific discoveries is that many are performing research to find ways of utilizing resources in an effective way. Therefore, they can teach others how to utilize certain resources in order to have a great sustainability without having to deplete a large quantity of environmental species. It puts scientist to the test about whether or not they know what is actually happening to our ecosystem. Even though they are performing research with regards to resource depletion, it seems like not many are focusing on what can we do in order to stop depleting them. They think too much on finding an alternative, when we should focus on changing our ways of not depleting the resource as quickly. For instance, changing the amount of resource we use by changing certain habits.


http://www.zoomstart.com/blog-action-day-2007-the-environment/


2. "The usual answer to this dilemma is 'more conservation education'." -Pg. 63.

This quote struck me when I read it, because it is true about us thinking that we should educate more on conservation. It is a good idea to do so, but if we are not following what we are teaching then others will ultimately do the same. In order to conserve our ecosystem, it comes down to whether you change your lifestyle or not. Yes educating is a good start. Educating is a way to inform others on why they should try to conserve ecosystem but it doesn't really prove much unless they actually see the change. Even though, it is known that in order to see change it will take some time until it happens but it is a start in order to imagine what will happen if we do not do something about it. As mentioned before, it ultimately comes down to changing certain habits. For instance, use cloth shopping bags when grocery shopping, instead of wasting plastic bags that will eventually end up the street or such. The other change is going back to some old lifestyles, such as gardening or farming. This ultimately allows the food chains to have a greater strength and also allows less pesticides to effect the environment. Therefore, changing lifestyles could result in a greater impact compared to simply educating others about the dilemma.


 http://10qdetective.blogspot.com/2010/04/denbury-resources-profiting-from.html


3. "One basic weakness in a conservation system based wholly on economic motives is that most members of the land community have no economic value." Pg. 65.

No economic value should not even be considered for any type of matter. This is absurd to believe that something does not have economic value just because it may seem like it does not contribute anything to society. It seems like everything now a days has to have a high cost and if it does not than it is worthless. That is like saying lets deplete rocks since they are not shiny or do not play a high roll in our society. This does occur and then when we realize something is going wrong we notice that, that substance was important and there we go trying to place a law so we can still save it and hope that it will not be extinct. Sometimes it even just comes down to fulfilling our high class requests. For instance, when one goes to the store and is planning to purchase a warm coat. The first thing one does is look at the material and then look at the pricing. They look at the material to make sure that it is the best material to keep them warm. Then they look at the pricing to make sure that it fits with their budget or if the price is high enough to be shown off. Again, this comes down to materialism. Some people just want to have the best of the best in order to be better than someone else. When at the end of the day, people do not care about what one has. Therefore, why should there be an economic value of materials or even yet on our land community.

4. "If the act costs him cash, this is fair and proper, but when it costs only fore-thought, open-mindedness, or time, the issue is at lease debatable." -Pg. 67.

It is sad to think that any one would think in this matter. Even though we would want to cover the thought or idea of this, it tends to be true majority of the time. When one asks us for help, many start asking questions like, what do I have to do and how much time will it take. As if trying to figure out whether is it worth wasting your time to help someone else. Or even yet, when offering volunteer hours many are attracted to those that offer free food or free objects. So it makes one think, are you really volunteering because you want to help or are you volunteering just to gain free stuff or a meal. Yet I am not saying everyone does this, but it opens your eyes to see who has and the number of people who have done so. Also, another reason why this quote struck out to me is because of the younger crowd. I have witnessed many incidents with younger adults and when they are asked to help they ask what are they going to get out of it. For instance, they ask for pay or something related to that. I was in disbelief, because at that age I did it because I loved to help people. I would never even ask what I had to do or what I would gain out of it. I would simply say yes and just show up to help with whatever they needed.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=flyiGMNGQyA