As Earth Day approaches, it's important to remember the importance of protecting our planet's precious resources, particularly in areas facing unique challenges. California, for example, is home to a vast array of aquatic ecosystems, but it also faces challenges such as drought and water pollution. With this in mind, here's a list of 10 Earth Day activities that families can do to help protect California's water resources. From reducing water usage to supporting local conservation efforts, these activities are a great way to celebrate Earth Day while also making a positive impact on the environment.
Teaching children how to garden is a wonderful way for them to connect to the outdoors, safely.
Participate in a beach or river cleanup: California has a beautiful coastline and many rivers, but they are often littered with trash. Gather your family and participate in a beach or river cleanup to help keep our waterways clean. Join a local non-profit organization like Save The Bay or The Watershed Project to participate in a beach or river cleanup.
Reduce water usage: California is prone to droughts, so it's important to conserve water. Involve your family in reducing your household's water usage by fixing leaks, taking shorter showers, and using drought-tolerant plants in your garden. Consider supporting organizations like Save Our Water or the California Water Efficiency Partnership that work to promote water conservation.
Install water-efficient fixtures: Install water-efficient fixtures like low-flow showerheads and faucets to save water and money on your utility bills.
Go on a water tour with the Water Education Foundation. Their various tours around the state give you a firsthand look at the water facilities, rivers and regions critical in the debate about the future of water resources, and a deeper appreciation for your local watershed.
Support local conservation efforts: Support local conservation organizations that work to protect California's waterways and aquatic ecosystems, such as Friends of Sausal Creek in Oakland.
Plant a water-wise garden: Create a water-wise garden with your family by planting drought-tolerant plants and using drip irrigation. This can help conserve water and also attract local wildlife. Check out some online tips from the California Native Plant Society or classes held by the Theodore Payne Foundation for inspiration on native gardening.
Learn about California's water history: California has a complex history when it comes to water, from the construction of the California Aqueduct to the management of the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. Take some time with your family to learn about this history and its impacts on the state's water resources. KQED’s Documentary “Saving the Bay” explores the storied history of San Francisco Bay with four one-hour episodes tracing the Bay from its geologic origins following the last Ice Age, through years of catastrophic exploitation, to the restoration efforts of today.
Host a water-themed movie night: Watch water-themed movies like "A River Runs Through It" or "Chasing Coral" with your family to learn about the importance of water and the impact of human activities on aquatic ecosystems.
Take a virtual tour of California's water resources: Many organizations offer virtual tours of California's water resources, including the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta and the Colorado River. Take a virtual tour with your family to learn about these vital resources.
Advocate for water conservation policies: Write letters or make phone calls to your elected representatives to advocate for water conservation policies that protect California's water resources.
