Well-known Canadian author and environmentalist Farley Mowat has died at 92. His 1963 bestseller, Never Cry Wolf, is credited with changing public perception of wolves as savage killers to one more sympathetic. His environmental advocacy and ability to spin a … Continue reading
This is guest post exchange day in the 2013 WordCount Blogathon. This story comes from the U.S. West Coast, courtesy of my friend Jennifer Willis. Do you know what your personal environmental impact is? Really? Nearly nine years ago, I … Continue reading
Dark ecology: searching for truth in a post-green world, in the current issue of Orion, reads like a dark mirror. I glimpse my own pessimism enhanced by deep reflections of Paul Kingsnorth. The essayist says technological civilization is bound for … Continue reading
I recently interviewed a biodynamic farmer who did not like the label sustainable, and he is not the only one. Many people who want to treat nature well are choking on old vocabulary. Sustainability, environmentalism, carbon-neutral, green living and organic … Continue reading
A world-altering book, Silent Spring, hit the shelves 50 years ago this week. The gospel according to Rachel raised awareness of the widespread, dangerous use of pesticides and their impact on birds, wildlife and human health. Her teachings essentially launched … Continue reading
Eighteen months ago, living in an apartment without direct access to personal green space, I felt woefully disconnected from nature. It hit me hard because I grew up in the country, surrounded by flora and fauna, rich soil under my … Continue reading
It is an important time for river advocates in Guelph. Tonight City Council will vote whether to update the city’s Official Plan with dubious protection for the Speed River and Eramosa River greenway. Coincidentally, this Sunday begins a week-long … Continue reading
We all need people who inspire us, whether heroes, models, mentors or friends. During the WordCount Blogathon Speed River Journal will present a special Saturday feature profiling people I admire. These are all living people whose work relates directly or … Continue reading
Guelph, my home city, received a glowing report on Terry Bradshaw’s TV show Profiles. It demonstrates how environmentalism and sustainability are integral to the city’s history, character and economy. My Downtown Guelph says this was the only Canadian city featured … Continue reading