Since the development of agriculture some 10,000 years ago, mankind had taken more and more land for our exclusive use. Wild ecosystems can no longer endure the ongoing damage, so we need to start returning some land to the natural world.
This give-back is most beneficial to farmers both large and small. Just an arm’s length for tiny farms, or about 3% of the field along one property line would allow a habitat known as a hedgerow to grow. Hedgerows have served England very well by providing shelter and home for small animals, birds, insects and local natural plants. They catch and hold rainwater and reduce wind erosion. The profusion of creatures is safer and cheaper in controlling pests than chemical poisons.
In our rise to civilization, we have left deserts in our footprints. Greed seems to be the most powerful ethos of mankind; we need to start to control our impulses. Our survival is dependent upon healthy ecosystems.
— Thomas R. Wilson
Anchorage
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