Gaia's Guardians OR Walking Our Earthwise Talk

"So", she asked, "what does an earthwise person do, exactly, if they really want to walk their talk?" Well, as it happens, I have a list. My friends and I are engaged in a wide variety of projects and volunteer work (1) Here are some examples:

* Companion Animals: Working with, companion animal rescue groups by fostering, helping with adoptions, doing shelter work, etc.

* Wildlife Rescue & Rehab: Working with and supporting groups that do wildlife rescue, rehabilitation & release of orphaned and/or injured wildlife.

* Habitat: Serving groups work to restore habitat & supporting native plant education in our community.

* Art: Creating art, websites, blogs and/or writings on natural themes in order to awaken others to the beauty and power of nature. Please note: We also get out there and put our back into it - it isn't enough to inspire and inform, we also have to do the work, like helping to clean up a local waterway or park.

* Eco-education: Working to teach children about nature and the web of life and supporting groups that get them outside and in contact with nature.

* Mentoring: Volunteering in our local schools & groups to help the next generation learn, grow and thrive.

* Conservation: Working to support the preservation of open space, forests, wild lands and vanishing species.

* Guiding Others: Offering educational workshops, hikes, birding walks, and other events related to these issues.

* Water Use & Clean Up: Getting involved with water issues such as river clean up, coastal protection, water wise gardening, etc.

* Community Organizing: Doing grass roots organizing, fund raising & networking for various earthwise & ecological causes.

* Gardening with joy and purpose: Learning about and creating urban gardens either to grow food or sustain wildlife.

* Food Issues: Educating ourselves about organic & sustainable farming and supporting ethical, local growers by shopping at farmer's markets and grocery stores that list where our food comes from and how it was grown and/or raised.

* Improving and protecting our neighborhoods: Working to establish and support green spaces, parks and hiking trails.

* Taking on city hall: Actively encouraging our local governments to use native plants and trees in neighborhoods & public spaces.

* Recycling & Waste: Raising awareness about recycling and wise use issues.

* Animal Heroes: Working with groups that train service animals and rescue & rescue groups.

* First Responders: Working with groups that aid abused animals and/or people all those caught in disasters

* Working for the future: Helping to create communities which are economically and environmentally sustainable and socially just, both here and overseas.

* New Media: Using social networks and other forms of new media to make people aware of our work and connect with like-minded others. Again: it is not enough to tell someone about an event or cause, we need to be the people who show up and do the work.

Finding a Group

Interested? Then contact Volunteer Match and see how you can become involved, ask your friends where and how they volunteer or just look around your neighborhood and see what needs doing.

Somewhere, somebody needs your skills.

Unemployed?

If you are unemployed right now you may be feeling scared, isolated, angry and depressed. I've been there. Trust me, this is a good way to keep busy and make connections while you look for work or retrain. You never know what could come out of this work. We often find jobs because of who we know, not what we know, so get out there and meet some folks and do some good at the same time.

Feeling Blue?

Leave your room, please. It won't cure everything but it will you avoid the depression, feelings of helplessness and lethargy that comes to so many people this time of year. Get out there and see what you can do.

Parents

It only takes a few hours a week and most places let you set your own schedule. Also, many groups will encourage you to volunteer along with your kids. Why not take the chance to show them how useful and powerful they can really be?

Note for Parents: You can deduct the cost of the sitter.

Fees paid to a sitter to enable a mother (sic!) to get out of the house and do volunteer work for a charity are deductible as charitable contributions, even though the money didn't go directly to the charity, according to the Tax Court. The Court expressly rejected a contrary IRS revenue ruling.

Sia

Related Articles:

Earthwise Ethics

Is Environmentalism Our New Religion?

Pagan & Earthwise Groups Doing Charity Work

Endnotes:

(1) If we can't work directly with a group, we can often be found donating and/or gather supplies or helping to raise funds for same.

Are you engaged in such work? Write to me and let me know what it is and I'll add it to the list.

Art: Dancing the Bear Dream by Susan Seddon-Bouleet

The Last Child In the Woods

The question of the day comes from a woman speaking at the inauguration of the new Wildlife Center (1) at the Tualatin River Refuge (Oregon, USA)

"Who is going to be our next conservation heroes?" asks Kim Strassburg, the refuge's visitor services manager. "Our kids. And if our kids are losing touch with nature?

Who indeed?

Richard Louv author of Last Child In the Woods: Saving Our Children From Nature Deficit Disorder attended the opening and signed copies of his book. You can view one of his lectures here.

Earthwise parents concerned that we are losing touch with nature may wish to check out Spiral Scouts.

Enjoy,

Sia

For those of you using a reader, the video I've posted at my blog is from the Netherlands, and it is titled Discovery of the last child in the woods.

Endnotes:

Tualatin River Refuge

was established as an urban refuge to provide wetland, riparian, and upland habitats for a variety of migratory birds, threatened and endangered species, fish, other resident wildlife, and for the enjoyment of people. The refuge is now home to nearly 200 species of birds, over 50 species of mammals, 25 species of reptiles and amphibians, and a wide variety of insects, fish, and plants.

Habitats include remnant and restored communities along rivers and streams, emergent, shrub, and forested wetlands, riparian forests, oak and pine meadows and grasslands, and mixed deciduous/coniferous forests common to western Oregon prior to settlement.

These habitats are known primarily for their importance to salmon and steelhead, wintering Canada goose, pintail and mallard ducks, and for providing breeding habitat for songbirds.

Links:

Gaia's Guardians

Rescuing Orphaned Wildlife

This video offers us a lovely view of the work done by a group called Yggdrasil Urban Wildlife Rescue. Yggdrasil, as Nordic Pagans know, means world tree. In this video you'll will see photos of Yggdrasil volunteers caring for young and orphaned wildlife, including "pinkies", very young squirrels that few people ever get to see. My Green Witches' hat is off to these good folks in Oakland, California for their compassion and dedication.

There may well be an urban wildlife rescue center where you live. Such groups can always use supplies like paper towels and toilet paper, and they would love to get gift cards (no amount too small) from certain stores. Most wildlife rescue groups have a website that includes a Wish List. You don't have to give a lot to lend a hand.

They can also use volunteers, and will train you to work with the young birds and animals in their care. If you don't want to work in the shelter, why not offer to help out in the office? Most of these places are open 7 days and week and need help all hours of the day - why not offer a bit of support to Mamma Gaia and her creatures?

Do a Google search under "wildlife rescue" + your town and find a special place like this near you. Also check out your local Audubon chapter. Here in Portland, Oregon, much of this work is done at the local Audubon Wildcare Center, and they offer wonderful guided hikes and day trips, as well.

And if you like the ocean, check out groups that handle marine mammal rescue.

All good things,

Sia

Links:

What to do if you find a baby bird

What to do if you find a baby mammal

Gaia's Guardians

Yggdrasil Urban Wildlife Rescue Homepage

Related Articles

Caring for Each Other, We Care For The Earth

Bandon Marsh Wildlife Refuge - Safe for Now, Thanks to "Friends"

Here is a hopeful note for those who love nature but still wonder if it's possible to stop the endless, mindless development on or near wild places: A state agency has just rejected plans for an RV park next to a wildlife refuge on Oregon's south coast, thanks to work done by the Friends of Bandon Marsh.

The fight is not over - it never is. The price for preserving nature is eternal vigilance.

Everybody needs beauty as well as bread,
places to play in and pray in
where nature may heal and cheer
and give strength to the body and soul.
- John Muir

Meanwhile, SEA (Shoreline Education for Awareness) has room for two National Docents to live in the Bandon Marsh NWR Bunkhouse next year in exchange for 20 hours per week. The bunkhouse is a modern 5 bedroom, manufactured home upgraded to Federal safety standards and completely equiped with a gormet kitchen, laundry facilities and two full baths.

If you have an interest in being a National Volunteer send an e-mail to Bill-R@SEA-edu.org for more information.

Come Walk the Coast: Bird lovers will enjoy the Oregon Coast Birding Trail.

Road Trip! The Cooking Light Website offers an article titled Cruise the Coast of Oregon. It offers advice on planning a four day road trip along that coast for those who like good food to go with their scenery.

Sia

Links:

Bandon Marsh Wildlife Refuge

For Pagan Parents & Teachers: Information on sea birds

Wanted: Citizen Scientists for The Christmas Bird Count

"What is billed as the longest running wildlife census in the world, the annual Christmas Bird Count of the National Audubon Society, is to be conducted across much of the Western Hemisphere between Dec. 14 and Jan. 5.

This annual recreational tallying of bird species and numbers is a fine opportunity for newcomers to rub elbows during a day afield with seasoned naturalists and become quickly grounded in this popular pastime....

“Each of the citizen scientists who braves snow, ice, wind, or rain to take part in the Christmas Bird Count is making an enormous contribution to conservation,” said Geoff LeBaron, Audubon’s CBC director. “Counting is the first step in learning how environmental threats are affecting our birds, and in helping to protect them.”...

The Count began on Christmas Day, 1900, initiated by scientist-writer Frank Chapman and included 27 conservationists in 25 localities. Chapman’s idea was to create an alternative to the then-acceptable practice of the “side hunt,” in which teams tried to shoot the most birds and mammals....

Last year nearly 70 million birds were counted by a record number of participants, nearly 58,000. Counts were conducted in all 50 states, all the Canadian provinces, parts of Central America and South America, Bermuda, the West Indies, and some Pacific Islands."

- from Steve Pollick's article on the annual bird count for the Toledo Blade site. You can read the rest of the article here.
----------

Got birds?

Sia

Links:

Christmas Bird Count- Get Involved

Citizen Science

A Beginners Experience on the Christmas Bird Count

Gaia's Guardians

Art: Wizard of the Owls by Janny Wurts
She offers puzzles, cards and mugs via various vendors - see her website for more information.

Rescuing Birds in the California Oil Spill

58, 000 thousand gallons

....of bunker fuel, no less! *

From Access News:

The University of California Davis is still leading the charge Monday in continued wildlife rescue efforts following the 60,000 gallon fuel oil spill in San Francisco Bay last week.

Three veterinarians and a veterinary technician arrived at Fort Mason Wednesday to organize the rescue effort and begin treating injured birds. By that afternoon there were 21 seabirds being treated, all of them surf scoters, according to UC Davis veterinarian Michael Ziccardi, director of the California Oiled Wildlife Care Network.

The Cordelia center is a 12,000-square-foot, $2.7 million facility capable of caring for up to 1,000 sick birds. It is the major Northern California rescue center in the statewide Oiled Wildlife Care Network, which comprises nine rescue facilities and 25 organizations prepared to care for oiled wildlife on short notice.

At each California rescue center, UC Davis wildlife veterinarians work in partnership with local, trained wildlife rehabilitators. At the Cordelia center, those rehabilitators are staff members of the International Bird Rescue Research Center.

CNN notes that the oil spill could effect wildlife and fishing for many years to come. The link also has pictures and video links.

Fisherman and the general public are also effected. The CBS5 Site reports that

San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom also proclaimed a state of local emergency Tuesday as a result of the worst Bay Area spill in nearly two decades, citing the possible conditions of "extreme peril" to local residents that have arisen.

Fishermen concerned about contamination from the spill had sought a halt to Bay fishing activity. The governor's action delays Thursday's scheduled start of the highly anticipated commercial season for Dungeness crab and interrupts the catch of sturgeon, halibut and other species by sportfishermen.

...(Governor Schwarzenegger said Tuesday that) "The oil spill was the result of "unbelievable human failure," he said. "Then on top of it, it takes that long to react to the oil spill so by the time the next day comes around, the oil is all over the bay."

* Bunker Fuel: Environmentalists have called for a ban on the type of oil that spilled into the bay:

Sticky, packed with pollutants and slow to break down, the type of oil spilled into the San Francisco Bay by a cargo ship is an ecological nightmare loose on the waves, say environmentalists.

The spill, which has prompted a massive cleanup and federal investigation, inspired the group Friends of the Earth to ask Congress to ban the use of so-called bunker fuel.

"Bunker fuel is the dirtiest fuel on the planet," said Teri Shore, campaign director for the marine program at Friends of the Earth, which has started a petition drive seeking a ban.

Update 11/15 - People are helping in the most unusual ways. Read Hecate's post titled Locks of the Bay

Links:

International Bird Rescue Center

Save the Bay

Marine Mammal Center

Wildlife Rescue Effort - Palo Alto

Wildlife Center of Silicon Valley

California Raptor Center at UC Davis

Gaia's Guardians

To report oil sightings call (415) 398-9617
To report oiled wildlife call (415) 701-2311
To submit a claim for oiled property call 888-850-8486

Further Information:

Cleaning Wildlife Improves After '71 Spill

Video: Caring for Birds

Let's Praise Selfless Bird Volunteers

Governor Halts Fishing, Blasts Oil Response

Here's How You Can Help
- from Gary Bogue, Contra Costa Times:

Here’s how you can do it:

Organizations and caring people who do this work can ALWAYS use donations of funds and materials or ideas to help them do their jobs.

** International Bird Rescue Research Center in Cordelia:
This is a nonprofit organization that is cleaning oil off the birds caught in the San Francisco Bay oil spill, even as we speak. Donations help them cover many expenses and keep their facility staffed with volunteers. Find out how you can help by going to the Web site at http://www.ibrrc.org

If you don’t have a computer, just send a tax-deductible check or money order to: IBRRC, 4369 Cordelia Road, Fairfield, CA 94534. Questions? Call: 707-207-0380 ext. 109.

------------------

Have you ever seen the San Francisco Bay? It is one of the most beautiful places in the world. Or, at least, it was.

It's been my experience both as a wildlife rahabilitor and as someone who follows this sort of news, that 50% of the birds treated will still die. Blessings on those out there who are saying as many creatures as they can. This is backbreaking, heart wrenching work.

Wildfires, earthquakes and now this. Our thoughts and best wishes are with our friends in California.

Sia

Will We Do What It Takes To Address Climate Change?

A recent BBC pole conducted in 21 countries found that people by and large are more willing than their governments to do what it takes to address climate change.

According to the BBC, 83% of respondents throughout the world agreed that individuals would definitely or probably have to make lifestyle changes to reduce the amount of climate-changing gases they produce. Some 70% said they were ready to make personal sacrifices.

You can read the results of their pole here, and participate in our own, small poll in the top right hand corner of this blog.

The United Nations Global Environment Outlook Report makes it very clear what is at stake.

With its Geo-4 report, the United Nations tells us that most aspects of the Earth's natural environment are in decline; and that the decline will affect us, the planet's human inhabitants, in some pretty important ways.....the report covers the whole range of environmental issues, and the links between them... In these climate-obsessed times, it is often forgotten that issues like forestry, fresh water supplies, agriculture, biodiversity, and the spread of desert land all connect to each other and to climate change.

Are you ready to take action? Here are 10 Simple Things You Can Do.

Want to ge more involved? Then visit the Climate At Crisis site, and see what you can do personally, locally, nationally and internationally to promote change.

It's in your hands.

Sia

Links:

Billions Face Climate Change Risk

Gaia's Guardians

Art: Herb Goddess by Sharon Grove at Fantasy & Goddess Arts. Go here to order prints.

California Firestorm Updates - It's Not Over

It's Not Nice To Fool (with) Mother Nature:

In the Yes, and...? category today we have this well meaning commentary at Inquirer.net

"...perhaps nature is telling us through these wildfires that it’s resenting the urbanization of mountain and forest areas.

Industrialists have carved out fashionable villages, hotels and resorts and other commercial establishments in areas previously untouched, unpolluted and unviolated.

Nature wants to claim back its lands and is telling man to “just back off” ... or else, man (sic) will get what he deserves. A stern warning from nature."

Gosh....ya think?

For more on how the California paradise is being lost, read California's Natural Born Killers at BBC.com.

Why Should I Care?

Because we can all expect more large scale, destructive fires in our states, as the problems created by global warming, rampant overdevelopment, the water crisis, the strain on both the nation's budget and the National Guard due to the Iraq war, and the population explosion impact us all. As Newsweek notes, wildfires are America's future.

George Carlin thinks we've got it coming. What do you think?

Updates:

Meanwhile, here is an NBC Update on the CA wildfires and this is one of the better blogs on the subject for those who live in the San Diego area.

One of the issues now is to find affordable housing for those affected by the fires and there are those no one thinks about, until they need their food picked or their houses cleaned: The migrant workers caught in the fires.

Animal Rescue Updates:

Horses:

One Santa Clarita man suffered severe burns when he went into a burning barn to save a dozen therapy horses at the Heads Up Therapy Ranch. He is at a local burn ward as we speak. Donations can be sent care of the ranch.

The Doghouse blog notes that Approximately 2,000 horses were housed at State fairgrounds, and many of their owners slept in the jockey quarters. According to a CNN story on animal rescue during the fire, some horses were kept in mall parking lots.

Wildlife

Wild birds also need help. According to the San Pedro Press Telegram, "Local wildlife rescuers are making room for injured and distressed animals displaced by fires ravaging the Southland.

In recent days, a few dozen aquatic birds and waterfowl forced from their Malibu home by smoke and flames have landed temporary shelter at the International Bird Rescue Research Center here, with more expected in coming days.

The center opened its doors to both wildlife and domesticated housepets on Sunday, when it began accepting ducks, coots and other winged creatures from a devastated wildlife center in Malibu's fire-ravaged canyons.

The center, staffed by volunteers and run on a shoe-string budget, says it will remain open for the duration...The center received an emergency grant from the International Fund for Animal Welfare to aid operations in coming weeks, and said it is willing to help other animal control authorities care for avian wildfire victims.

Anyone coming across an animal injured or left homeless from recent wildfires is urged to call the WildRescue hotline at (866) WILD-911.

To contact the IBRRC, call (310) 514-2753 or visit www.ibrrc.org."

Companion Animals

The San Diego Humane Society rescue teams continue to care for animals and pets effected by the fire. They offer a short slideshow about the work they are doing, and this update:

As of today, there are 165 animals directly receiving care from our staff at the Mira Mesa High School, down from 200 as people are returning to their homes. The majority of evacuees left are from the Ramona area. A Humane Society veterinarian was also on site today to examine pets and provide health care to any ailing animals.

Welfare checks on animals left in their homes continued today as the areas actively burning decreased. Volunteers and staff visited almost 100 residences and fed and watered over 409 animals throughout the county in Lakeside, Ramona and Jamul.

Some animals are suffering from burns and smoke inhalation. Approximately 20 horses are being treated at the Lakeside Rodeo Ground for fire-related injuries. Unfortunately, there are also many dead animal that were found today and a total count is in the process of being tallied. Our thoughts and well wishes go out to those who have lost their animals in these terrible fires. The San Diego Humane Society does provide pet loss resources for those who have had to say goodbye to their animal friends. Learn more about pet loss support.

Though this is a terrible tragedy, we continue to be encouraged by the surviving animals that we are finding and in our ability to continue to help the community."

--------------

Thousands of people are out there, doing the good that's in front of them. How's that for inspiring?

Sia

Pet Links:

Protecting Your Pet in an Emergency

Pet Loss Support Hotline

Pet Loss: Groups, Books & Links

Association for Pet Loss and Bereavement

Some Prayers for a Deceased Pet

Saying Goodbye To A Pet: Rituals and Memories
(Includes a section on euthanizing pets titled "When It's Time To Let Go"O
Other Links

San Francisco Art Auction - Fundraiser for the Humane Society

Fire Report for the State of California

What to Save From a Fire - From Time Magazine

Disaster Relief for Animals Caught in Wildfires

The Humane Society has deployed it's teams and they can use our help

More information is below

Here is a list of local animal shelters

Free Pet Boarding, Free Horse Transport & Free Shelters for People

Wildlife Rescue

Should you find a wild animal in distress, and not know who to call for help, WildRescue operates a phone hotline for the Southern California area. The hotline, (866) WILD-911, can help you find the wildlife rescue center that serves your area.

Notes on animal rescue efforts througout Southern California are below
Update 10/25: Evacuating Man's Best Friend

San Diego Humane Society

Information on animal rescue efforts in other areas is also listed below

Here is the lastest information on animal rescue in San Diego courtesy of The Daily Kos

To ensure that all evacuees are receiving accurate information, please provide the following updates to pet owners in need during evacuations:

The San Diego Humane Society's Animal Rescue Reserve (ARR) team is currently working with the County of San Diego Department of Animal Services to evacuate domestic animals and livestock threatened by the Harris and Witch Creek fires with first priority being given to evacuation areas in Rancho Bernardo. Over the last two days, officers, staff and volunteers have evacuated more than 400 animals and are actively assisting more than 1,000 animals at our shelter locations throughout the county. However, experts estimate that between 10,000-15,000 animals have been displaced county wide.

Currently we are not able to assist or escort individuals into burned areas.

All resources are active at this time in areas needing immediate evacuation.

If you have animals or livestock that you cannot evacuate yourself or that need to be rescued, call (619) 236-4250 and press "1" for emergency services.

OPEN ANIMAL EVACUATION SITES: The following sites are open for animals and are being supplied by the County of San Diego Department of Animal Services and San Diego Humane Society:

Small Animals Only:

Qualcomm Stadium -- 9449 Friars Road

Most Red Cross Evacuation Centers

Large Animals

Fiesta Island (will accept small animals as well) Lakeside Rodeo Grounds is currently only available for animals being evacuated by County of San Diego or Humane Society officers and is not available for public animal drop off.

Space in Thermal and Indio is available as a back-up site. Call (760)

399-2716 for information

If you have a stable or other areas that can house a number of large animals and livestock that need to be evacuated, please call the San Diego Humane Society at (619) 299-7012.

The San Diego Humane Society is asking for donations of the following items:

Cash donations to support rescue efforts.

Pop-up tents for shade and shelter

Lead ropes for livestock

Broodmore halters

Cash donations can be made online at www.sdhumane.org or by calling (619) 299-7012. Items may be brought directly to the San Diego Humane Society campus at 5500 Gaines Street.

Volunteers are not needed at this time, but the San Diego Humane Society is keeping a list of names for people interested in helping.

Residents that need to evacuate their homes are asked to take all companion animals with them. If possible, place your pet in a crate or carrier and bring any necessary supplies including leashes, food, water, and medications as supplies at evacuation centers may be limited. More tips can be found online at www.sdhumane.org.

Tijuana Valley Equestrian Association: 619-920-1282, John Gabaldon TVEA members will help to place horses in private ranches in the Tijuana River Valley area. The association has placed 200 horses and has room for more. For information, evacuees with horses can contact John Gabaldon, the chairman of the Tijuana Valley Equestrian Association at (619) 920-1282, and he will provide directions to the location of the corrals.

-------------------------

Many Other Groups are Currently Involved in this Rescue Effort:

Animal Disaster Relief - Other News & Information
Our thanks to the Kinship Circle for Animals,
& Craig's List San Diego For The Information Found Below
(Note: Check your local NPR Station and KCAL9.com for further updates)

ANNOUNCEMENT - KINSHIP CIRCLE ANIMAL DISASTER RELIEF

PERMISSION TO CROSS-POST AS WRITTEN

RELIEF GLOBAL
10/23/07: Animals Caught In California Wildfires: How To Help
KINSHIP CIRCLE’S DISASTER VICTIMS SITE:

COMPREHENSIVE ALERT
ABOUT ANIMALS AFFECTED
IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA WILDFIRES:

As of today, nearly a half million people have evacuated. Homes are gone. READ CAREFULLY, if you want to help. Many listings below show info to DONATE and/or VOLUNTEER. Anyone certified with Noah’s Wish, EARS, or other disaster relief orgs ought to be prepared to be deploy.

As during Katrina, however, Kinship Circle has no control over the ever-changing logistics of a disaster.

10/23/07: How To Help Animals In California Wildfires

1. UPDATE: Fire Evacuation For Gentle Barn - Cows Trapped. Horses Afraid.
2. UPDATE: As Flames Engulfed Animals At Gentle Barn In Santa Clarita, CA...
3. San Diego Animal Evacuations: Where They’re Welcome/How To Help
4. Southern California VCA Hospitals Offer Free Boarding
5. Animal Evacuation Order Issued For Topanga Canyon
6. High Winds Bring Displaced Doggies To Blown-Down Ranch
7. Evacuated Horses Streaming into Pierce College As Fires Spread
8. Flames Threaten San Diego Wild Animal Park
9. Massive Evacuations Ordered As Onslaught Of Fires Spreads
10. MORE REPORTS/RESOURCES FOR ANIMALS


+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

1. UPDATE: Fire Evacuation For Gentle Barn - Cows Trapped. Horses Afraid.
DATE: 10/22/07
FROM: Lorri Bauston, President, info@animalacres.org


EMERGENCY EVACUATION UPDATE: Fortunately, because of the dedication of
volunteers and individuals who helped us buy animal transport trailers, WE
WERE ABLE TO SAFELY EVACUATE ALL OF GENTLE BARN’S ANIMALS, and the animals
are now being cared for at Animal Acres...

Given the state of emergency in southern California, it is clear that
additional fire evacuation areas need to be established for farm animals,
and we are focusing all our efforts on this over the next two weeks. We
DESPERATELY need YOU to help with this effort.

HOW TO HELP FARM ANIMALS IN FIRE EVACUATIONS:
1. VOLUNTEER AT ANIMAL ACRES: Come to Animal Acres to help care for
evacuated animals here.

* Caregivers needed from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily.
* No appointment necessary
* Directions to Animal Acres


2. HELP ESTABLISH EMERGENCY EVACUATION PROTOCOL: Help set up an emergency
evacuation area for the Animal Acres animals. The more volunteers who can
pitch-in, the sooner a site can be ready for evacuation needs.

* Volunteers needed to put up fencing and other jobs.
* Volunteers needed EVERY DAY from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
* Let us know what day(s) you will be joining us.
* CALL: 661-269-5404 or EMAIL: info@animalacres.org


3. DONATE FOR EVACUATION NEEDS: Your donation, in any amount, will means so
much. We URGENTLY need funding for:

* Temporary housing sheds
* Evacuation site fencing and corrals
* Water troughs and water hoses
* To purchase an additional transport trailer to evacuate ALL animals immediately.
* DONATE ONLINE


On behalf of ALL of us at Animal Acres, and the animals who need our
assistance at this difficult time, THANK YOU.

Lorri Bauston, President, ANIMAL ACRES
5200 Escondido Canyon Road * Acton, CA 93510
ph: 661-269-5404; fax: 661-269-0194
email: info@animalacres.org * website: http://www.animalacres.org
Animal Acres is a Los Angeles farmed animal sanctuary and compassionate
living center directed by Farm Sanctuary co-founder Lorri Bauston.

DIRECTIONS TO ANIMAL ACRES:

* Located approx. 40 minutes from Los Angeles.
* Take Interstate 5 North to Highway 14 North (Antelope Valley Hwy towards Palmdale).
* Take Highway 14 North approximately 18 miles.
* Take the RED ROVER MINE ROAD exit;
* the exit will curve to the right; take the first LEFT (you’ll be on Ward Road), and this road ends at ESCONDIDO CANYON ROAD.
* Take a LEFT on ESCONDIDO CANYON ROAD.
* The Sanctuary is the first farm on the left; look for buildings with red tiled roofs and mailboxes in front of driveway.


+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

2. UPDATE: As Flames Engulfed Animals At Gentle Barn In Santa Clarita, CA...
DATE: 10/22/07
FROM: Susie V Kaufman, Susie@JarrettLennon.com

Sunday and Monday, as flames engulfed the animals at Gentle Barn in Santa
Clarita, CA , Kinship Circle urged volunteers to bring transport trailers
and willing hands to both Gentle Barn and Animal Acres. You were advised to
notify Susie Kaufman, if able to help. Below is Susie’s update on the
evacuated animals.

CONTACT SUSIE TO BE ON-CALL FOR EVACUATION OR LOADING/UNLOADING ANIMALS:

* PHONE (only use this number): 661-251-6669
* EMAIL: Susie@JarrettLennon.com
* Contact by EMAIL is preferred.


We need loving people to come to Animal Acres and help feed and water our
rescued rescues. We also need:

* Food!
* Bedding!
* Containers for water
* Everything you can think of for farm animals to make them comfortable and calm.


If you come to Animal Acres, let them know Susie sent you their way. That
way we'll know if this system works.

We need folks on standby -- in case Animal Acres needs to evacuate -- with:

* Trailers, trucks
* Ability to load and unload panicked animals

It's AMAZING how many of you love animals that much!
With all my heart, Susie, Susie@JarrettLennon.com * 661-251-6669

DIRECTIONS TO ANIMAL ACRES:
Animal Acres, 661-269-5404
5200 Escondido Canyon Road * Acton, CA 93510

* Located approx. 40 minutes from Los Angeles.
* Take Interstate 5 North to Highway 14 North (Antelope Valley Hwy towards Palmdale).
* Take Highway 14 North approximately 18 miles.
* Take the RED ROVER MINE ROAD exit;
* the exit will curve to the right; take the first LEFT (you’ll be on Ward Road), and this road ends at ESCONDIDO CANYON ROAD.
* Take a LEFT on ESCONDIDO CANYON ROAD.
* The Sanctuary is the first farm on the left; look for buildings with red tiled roofs and mailboxes in front of driveway.


+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

3. San Diego Animal Evacuations: Where They’re Welcome/How To Help
DATE: 10/23/07
San Diego Humane Society - Animal Rescue Updates
SOURCE: News 8 Wildfire Coverage

SAN DIEGO HUMANE SOCIETY Assisting with Animal Evacuations for Harris
and Witch Creek Fires. As of Sunday evening, several dozen animals have been
evacuated to temporary holding locations. Among the animals evacuated were
horses, goats, ducks, and dogs. The ARR is continuing to monitor the fires
through the night and will continue to provide aid to those pets in danger.

COMPANION ANIMAL EVACUATION:
Residents evacuating their homes are asked to take all companion animals
with them. If possible, place your pet in a crate or carrier and bring any
necessary supplies including leashes, food, water, and medications as
supplies at evacuation centers may be limited. More tips:

***** Most Red Cross evacuation centers are accepting pets in carriers. *****
If you do not have or were unable to put your pet in a carrier or need pet supplies,
bring your pet to one of the following Red Cross evacuation centers:

El Camino High School - NO PEOPLE, ONLY ANIMALS
400 Rancho Del Oro Dr. * Oceanside, CA 92057
Space for horses, livestock and small animals

Fiesta Island - ACCEPTING 500 OWNERS AND THEIR ANIMALS
1500 Fiesta Island Rd * San Diego, CA 92109

Qualcomm Stadium - SMALL PETS ONLY
9449 Friars Road * San Diego, CA 92108

Mira Mesa High School - FULL
10510 Reagan Road * San Diego, CA 92126

Camp Diggity Dog - FREE BOARDING TO DOGS DISPLACED BY FIRES
1835 Imperial Ave * San Diego, CA 92102
619-702-4090, Bark@CampDiggityDogs.com

LARGE ANIMAL EVACUATION:
Del Mar Fairgrounds - FULL

Lakeside Rodeo Grounds - FULL
Hwy 67 & Mapleview St.

IF YOU NEED EMERGENCY EVACUATION FOR YOUR ANIMALS OR LIVESTOCK:
CALL: 619-236-4250 and press "1" for emergency services

ANYONE WITH STABLE OR AREA TO HOUSE EVACUATED LARGE ANIMALS & LIVESTOCK:
CALL: San Diego Humane Society, 619-299-7012

HUMANE SOCIETY ALSO NEEDS PORTABLE LIVESTOCK PANELS FOR TEMPORARY CORRALS:
If you have these available for use, CALL: 619 299-7012

VOLUNTEERS & SUPPLIES:
Volunteers and supplies are not needed at this time, but the San Diego
Humane Society is keeping a list of names for people interested in helping.

* TO HELP, DONATE:
* Or CALL: 619-299-7012

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

4. Southern California VCA Hospitals Offer Free Boarding
DATE: 10/23/07

VCA animal hospitals throughout Southern California are offering free
boarding through Nov. 5 -- on a space-available basis -- for animals whose
owners have been evacuated or displaced as a result of the firestorms.

Pet owners should call ahead to double-check, but VCA facilities in Los
Angeles and Orange counties that may have space available include:

-- Burbank, VCA Animal Hospital, 818-845-7246
-- Canoga Park, VCA Companion Animal Hospital, 818-340-1569
-- Cypress, VCA College Park-Ana Brook Animal Hospital, 714-827-6861
-- Glendale, VCA Arden Animal Hospital, 818-246-2478
-- Hermosa Beach, VCA Coast Animal Hospital, 310-372-8881
-- Laguna Niguel, VCA Aliso Viejo Animal Hospital, 949-643-0437
-- Lake Forest, VCA Saddleback Animal Hospital, 949-586-4250
-- Lake Forest, VCA Arroyo Animal Hospital, 949-770-1808
-- Los Alamitos, VCA Rossmoor-El Dorado Animal Hospital. 562-598-8621
-- Los Angeles, VCA Miller-Robertson Animal Hospital, 310-657-7050
-- Los Angeles, VCA Petville Animal Hospital, 310-313-9118
-- Mission Viejo, VCA Mission Viejo Animal Hospital, 949-582-1220
-- Pasadena, VCA A Breed Apart Animal Hospital, 626-795-4444
-- Reseda, VCA McClave Animal Hospital, 818-881-5102
-- Santa Monica, VCA Santa Monica Dog and Cat Hospital, 310-453-5459
-- Santa Monica, VCA Wilshire Animal Hospital, 310-828-4587
-- Woodland Hills, VCA Parkwood Animal Hospital, 818-884-5506

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

5. Animal Evacuation Order Issued For Topanga Canyon
DATE: 10/21/07
FROM: Kate Danaher, katedanaher@animalearthhuman.org

EDITED FOR LENGTH
(CBS) LOS ANGELES Owners of horses and large animals in the Topanga Canyon
area were ordered Sunday to evacuate their animals immediately, as officials
said animal owners in areas affected by wildfires should evacuate their pets
early. The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department and the Los Angeles
County Fire Department issued the animal evacuation order for Topanga Canyon
Sunday afternoon because of a windblown, 1,200-acre wildfire that began in
Malibu Sunday morning and is bearing down on the canyon.

MALIBU & AGUA DOLCE AUTHORITIES’ EMERGENCY ANIMAL HOTLINE:
[Animal caretakers] call 818-991-6384 for help with emergency evacuation.

TOPANGA COUNTY SHELTER FOR SMALL ANIMALS [CATS, DOGS]:
Agoura Hills Shelter
29525 Agoura Road in Agoura Hills

TOPANGA COUNTY SHELTER FOR LARGE ANIMALS [HORSES]:
Pierce College Equestrian Center in Woodland Hills
Horse owners were advised to enter the college via El Rancho Road, east of
DeSoto Avenue, a quarter mile south of Victory Boulevard.

REST OF STORY

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

6. High Winds Bring Displaced Doggies To Blown-Down Ranch
New Leash On Life Needs Your Help
DATE: 10/22/07
FROM: Kate Danaher, katedanaher@animalearthhuman.org

Late last night (Sunday, October 21) high winds ripped four of our exercise
pens off the ground and sent them flying. Currently they are residing where
they landed last night. Some are slung over the kennel and into the pool
area, others just upside-down in the middle of our exercise area. We need
help to secure these structures down and make the ranch safe as we are also
expecting a large influx of displaced dogs from the fire evacuations.

The Castaic Animal Shelter has already put in a call to our office to ask
for a place to put all these unfortunate doggies. If you can come help us at
the ranch today in any capacity, please do. The high winds continue to
threaten the ranch as the already destroyed pens are hanging on rooftops and
sticking to trees. Thank you for helping us in this time of need.

NEW LEASH ON LIFE
16742 Placerita Cyn. Rd. * Newhall, CA 91321
661-255-0097 or 818-710-9898 * info@nlol.org

DONATIONS:


+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

7. Evacuated Horses Streaming into Pierce College As Fires Spread
DATE: 10/23/07

Horses in evacuated areas threatened by the Malibu and other fires raging
this week are finding safe refuge at Pierce College in Woodland Hills, a Los
Angeles County large animal emergency evacuation center. As of noon on
Tuesday, Oct. 23, 153 horses had been logged in, sheltered and fed under the
direction of the L.A. County Volunteer Equine Response team.

HOTLINE: 818-991-6384
A temporary emergency Command Center phone number for the public to get
evacuation information for large animals.

Pierce can house more than 200 large animals, and additional evacuation
centers are being set up by the County, so the public should call the
Command Center hotline for direction.

Horses are taken in for free at Pierce, and a veterinarian is onsite.
Trained volunteers from Pierce College’s equestrian program and Boots and
Saddles Club are assisting the county rescue effort, night and day.

EMERGENCY CENTER GUIDELINES:

* No stallions
* Bring a water tub and medicines for your animal
* Please bring feed if you can

PIERCE COLLEGE LOCATION:
6201 Winnetka Avenue in Woodland Hills
Enter the campus off De Soto Avenue just south of Victory Blvd.
Turn east onto El Rancho Road.

FOR SMALL ANIMALS (DOGS, CATS):
Call the Agoura animal shelter: 818-991-0071
Evacuees in Ventura County call: 805-388-4341

DONATIONS:
Donate to: “Foundation for Pierce College Equine Emergency Fund”
Mail to: Foundation for Pierce College
6201 Winnetka Ave.
Woodland Hills, CA 91371
Or call the Foundation: 818-703-0826

Pierce College donates its equestrian facility, volunteers, food and
supplies to this rescue effort. Generous community members and local
businesses including numerous feed stores and Ralph's in Woodland Hills and
Olive Garden are bringing in "feed" -- for both horses and volunteers.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

8. Flames Threaten San Diego Wild Animal Park
DATE: 10/22/07

(AP) SAN DIEGO, Calif. The sprawling San Diego Wild Animal Park has been
closed to visitors and staff. Flames are threatening its eastern end.

Smaller animals, including California condors, were moved to the park's
hospital Sunday. Other animals are being kept in their large field
enclosures, which are considered to be safer because the vegetation is
sparse.The northern San Diego County park, encircled by fire breaks, is home
to about 3,500 animals.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

9. Massive Evacuations Ordered As Onslaught Of Fires Spreads
DATE: 10/23/07
FROM: Kate Danaher, katedanaher@animalearthhuman.org

EXCERPT FROM STORY:
The sheer ferocity and sweep of the firestorm, and the scale of its impact,
created surreal images throughout the region.

In the Rancho Bernardo area in north San Diego County, more than 1,500
people, 2,200 horses and other animals, including chickens, a zebra and a
zorse (a cross between a zebra and a horse), took refuge at the Del Mar
fairground and racetrack.

At least 5,000 people were evacuated to Qualcomm Stadium, home of the San
Diego Chargers, inviting comparisons to Hurricane Katrina evacuees who were
housed in squalor at the Louisiana Superdome. The scene at Qualcomm, though,
could hardly have been in sharper contrast.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

10. EMERGENCY ANIMAL RESCUE SERVICE (EARS) RESOURCE PAGE


10/21/07: Santa Barbara County Maintains Sedgwick Fire Animal Services Hotline
SOURCE: KSBY-TV
The Santa Barbara County Animal Services Program has implemented a hotline
to assist pet owners with animal evacuation and sheltering due to the
Sedgwick Fire. This hotline is available to identify those needing aid with
transporting or sheltering animals as well as individuals in our community
offering to provide assistance with animals. The Sedgwick Fire Animal
Services Hotline number is: 681-4332.

10/23/07: NOAH’S WISH REPORT
Update as of noon, 10/23/07:
Three Noah's Wish trailers left the El Dorado Hills office at noon loaded
with supplies and responders enroute to Qualcomm stadium in San Diego (see
photos below). Conditions continue to worsen as high winds drive the fires
into communities. Over a half-million people are evacuated in Southern
California. Qualcomm stadium now has more than 50,000 evacuees and the
numbers continue to grow by the hour. N.W. volunteers continue to arrive.
They are very busy but have the shelter functioning smoothly.

Update as of 7:00 am:
All Noah's wish personnel responding to San Diego fire disaster should
report to our command center at the temporary shelter, Parking Lot "H" at
Qualcomm Stadium. The First response trailer arrived last evening with much
needed cages and supplies.

Eight N.W. first responders spent the night caring for the many animals
already in place. (With hundreds more to come). This morning's count : 20
Horses , 79 Cats, 93 Dogs, 6 Rabbits, 5 Rats and a Chinchilla.

At 9:00am this morning a caravan of three trucks pulling N.W. trailers will
leave the El Dorado Hills office bound for Qualcomm. Trailers are stocked
with more caging and other much needed equipment. Two dozen volunteers are
now preparing to leave their homes from as far as Canada, Oklahoma and
Arizona, traveling to San Diego via car and plane.

This is a major disaster, much the same as Hurricane Katrina...Hundreds of
thousands of people and animals are out of their homes. Many will have no
homes to return to. Regions 1,2,5 and 6 are being deployed, more areas will
be alerted as warranted by the situation.

***************************************************************************************************
***************************************************************************************************

Action Campaigns I Literature I Voice For Animals
Nonprofit working in animal protection/cruelty + animal disaster relief campaigns
info@kinshipcircle.org or kinshipcircle@accessus.net
http://www.KinshipCircle.org * http://www.kinshipcircle.org/disasters/

Kinship Circle is a nonprofit organization serving the animal advocacy
community. Donations fund the literature, website, research/campaigns,
educational outreach, and animal disaster aid information -- that let YOU
take action for animals. DONATE: http://www.kinshipcircle.org/donation/

***************************************************************************************************

SUBSCRIBE
1. Kinship Circle Primary: subscribe@kinshipcircle.org
Action campaigns on animal cruelty issues worldwide
TELL US: SUBSCRIBE TO KINSHIP CIRCLE PRIMARY

2. Kinship Circle Animal Disaster Relief: kinshipcircle@accessus.net
Animal rescue coordination/news in disasters + companion animal alerts
TELL US: SUBSCRIBE TO KINSHIP CIRCLE ANIMAL DISASTER RELIEF
IF YOU ARE A RESIDENT OF Louisiana, Mississippi, Florida or Texas

***************************************************************************************************
Kinship Circle Animal Disaster Relief Focus
1. GULF COAST: Once monthly e-newsletters with news, needs,
stories...related to hurricane-affected animals in the Gulf Coast.
Newsletters to continue as long as needed.

2. RELIEF GLOBAL: E-newsletters/alerts about animals in disasters as they
unfold -- tornadoes, floods, hurricanes, fires, war zones, pet food recall...

3. ACTION CAMPAIGNS: Sample-letter alerts about

* Animal Protection Legislation
* Companion Animal Issues
* Animal Abuse Cases

---

Related Articles: Ring of Fire: The Southern CA Wildfires

Youtube video: Large California Fires & Their Effect on Wildlife
(note: contains some disturbing scenes)

Gaia's Guardians

Gaia's Guardians

Gaia's Guardians is a loose confederation of professionals and volunteers who work on projects that benefit Mother Earth and her creatures. This is an inter-faith effort & people from all belief systems (or none) are welcome.

They just opened up a new Yahoo networking board for their colleagues here.

Please note: This is a networking group for those who are already actively engaged in this sort of work. If you are new to community service, and wish to get involved, either visit Volunteer Match or write to Full Circle at info@fullcircleevents.org and we'll try our best to hook you up with local efforts you can support. Once you are involved you are very welcome to revisit the group and apply for membership.

A note about the Gaia's Guardian Award and the kind of work that Gaia's Guardians do is listed at the bottom of this post.

For The Smallest Among Us:

Have you ever rescued a baby bird or a baby squirrel. If so, you know how amazing that experience can be. Check out this video of Loki, a baby White Crowned Sparrow rescued at the Wild Heart Ranch.

Here is a brief overview of the rehabilitation process at a wildlife rescue shelter, complete with some very cute pictures.

And this is a useful article on coexisting with our wild neighbors.

When Helping Hurts

Remember, if you find a wild animal or bird on the ground, it may not need to be rescued! Most bird species spend about 10 days on the ground, learning to hop and fly, while Mom and Dad come to feed them. Many wild mammals like rabbits and deer leave their little ones alone for days at a time while they look for food. Even that lost looking baby seal may have a mom hovering nearby but out of sight. Or maybe the animal really does need help. If you have questions, ask the experts; call your local shelter or wildlife group for advice.

Wildlife Rehabilitation Information Directory

Here is a web directory of those groups in the U.S. who do wildlife rescue. It also has very helpful tips and some wonderful stories and pictures.

"One Cat Just Leads To Another" - Earnest Hemmingway (who had quite a few)

It's kitten season folks. Your local shelter and the various rescue groups are no doubt inundated with beasties, and will need volunteers, foster parents and supplies. Why not get together with your group and make them a goody basket? All these places have Wish Lists. Call them or go on-line and find out what they need. Trust me, you can never have too many paper towels, and after the recent pet food scare recall, a lot of these places are in need of food.

And don't forget,there are lots of older cats and cats with special needs that need good homes, too.

Before There Were Malls...

I've just finished reading Hacate's evocative essay titled Sense of Place. and it got me to thinking. I wonder how many of us began on this path because a place we knew and loved as children was ruined by greedy, mindless over-development? I grew up in the San Fernando Valley. Back then, it was best known for it's fertile farmland and horse ranches. Cougar and bobcats roamed the rolling hills and we road our bikes through dirt paths dotted with poppies and wild sage. By the time I was 10, the fields we had played in and trees we had climbed were destroyed to make way for shopping malls and concrete heavy suburbs. By the time I was a teenager the wild cats, hawks and deer were gone from the hills, and houses sat cheek by jowl in their place. The small family farms where we bought our fruits, vegetables and sweet corn were gone. The open spaces and small creeks we knew and loved had disappeared. All that was natural was paved over to make way for housing enclaves called names like Deer Hallow and Mountain View.

The Valley is now known for it's shopping malls. It is also the center of the porn industry. The 100 acre park, where we had all learn to climb rocks as kids and where I met my first oak trees, became littered with graffiti, broken glass and the occasional dead body. Ah, progress.

Like many of us, I thought and lived like an eco-feminist long before I heard the term. I can date my heart's path from the day I went with my friends to climb the trees in an open field near our house, only to find a bulldozer had cut them down the day before.

These days I belong to groups that protect wild spaces and open lands *as well as* those who advocate for lower income housing, sensible mass transit, green building, and limited growth.
The beauty of nature is for everyone. We cannot put our open space behind gates and reserve them for the privileged few. But neither can we allow our National Parks to be so trammeled and over crowed that our desire to enjoy it damages the place itself. What we need is common sense, vision and balance, like that shown by the people of Sonoma County, CA who willingly add 2 cents on to their sales tax specifically to purchase and protect small farms, and open space. Let us also praise the 10,000 Friends of Oregon who are working to preserve our heritage for future generation in Oregon and elsewhere.

The mending of the world is nigh. Wouldn't you like to be a part of that? Visit Volunteer Match and find out what you can do to help. Make a difference. It doesn't take a lot of time. It just needs a bit of heart.

Sia

The Gaia's Guardian Award

This award is given to a person or group for "Outstanding work benefiting Mama Gaia and her creatures". These people inspire the rest of us by their courage, caring and compassionate action. You do not have to be Pagan to win this award - what counts are good deeds and a noble heart.

Previous Award Winners

The California Bat Conservation Fund

The Wildlife Center of Silcon Valley

Deborah Noel: Service Dog Trainer & Spokesperson for People with Disabilities

Officer Christine Franco, Investigator (Animal Cruelty & Neglect) Silicon Valley Humane Society

In previous years, the Gaia's Guardian Award was given out at the Witche's Ball, a costume ball, charity event and fundraiser hosted annually by Full Circle. At that time, it was given to heros and heroines in California. The award is now given out nationally. The 2005 recipient was United Animal Nations for their work benefiting animals left abandoned, starving, and hurt after Hurricane Katrina. In 2006 The Gaia's Guardian Award was given posthumously to Carol Chapman, tireless advocate and Cat Rescue Mamma extraordinaire.

Some of the Work Done by Gaia's Guardians

* Companion animal rescue: fostering, adoptions, shelter work, etc.

* Wildlife rescue, rehabilitation & release.

* Habitate restoration & native plant education.

* Creating art, websites, blogs and/or writings on natural themes in order to awaken others to the beauty and power of nature.

* Working to teach children about nature and the web of life.

* Working to support the preservation of open space, forests and wild lands.

* Offering educational workshops, hikes, birding walks, and other events related to these issues.

* Involvement with water issues such as river clean up, coastal protection, water wise gardening, etc.

* Grass Roots organizing, fundraising & networking for various Earthwise & ecological causes.

* Involvement in organic & sustainable farming. Teaching kids about same.

* Working to establishment and support green spaces, parks and hiking trails.

* Actively encouraging our local governments to use native plants and trees in neighborhoods & public spaces.

* Raising awareness about recycling and wise use issues.

* Working with service animals and/or rescue animals.

* Working to aid abused animals and animals caught in disasters.

* Working for community which is both economically and environmentally sustainable and socially just.