Making Ripples on Earth Day With Salmon and Green Education
This Earth Day, my anticipation towards the start of the salmon spawning season builds. I’m preparing for a special trip — taking my niece on her first fishing adventure. However, salmon are more than targets for anglers. Salmon is a keystone species in Canada, respected and reflected in the Native Salmon Symbol as a powerful symbol of abundance, fertility, prosperity, and renewal. Earth Day and salmon season both fall in April, let’s explore the salmon story and spirit, which brims with powerful wisdom for our future stewards – our children.
Salmon: Resilience and Potential
The scientific name for salmon, salmo alar, is Latin for “leaper”. From birth, this fish overcomes many obstacles. Salmon eggs hatch in freshwater lakes and streams. Juvenile salmon develop parr lines as a means of camouflage to evade predators. They also develop tolerance to saltwater through a process called smoltification.
The life journeys of salmon mirror the how children grow into capable adults. Children are also born to leap over obstacles by developing problem-solving and critical thinking skills. Time and time again, my niece’s boundless energy and “get up and go” spirit is why she gets up every time she falls. This resilience is the same spirit that drives salmon to leap 15 feet high to climb waterfalls.
Salmon As Integral To Our Our Food Systems
Salmon is key to our agricultural processes. Upon maturity, salmon return nutrients from the sea to our freshwater. Salmon carcasses also bring nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium to nourish the soil. This benefits crops, trees, and other plants.
As a food source, salmon is also nutritious. They are a good source of essential omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and minerals. As such, they help boost our cognitive health, bone strength, and immune health.
Creating Tomorrow’s Leaders With Green Education
Much like how salmon is interconnected with nature, children will also thrive if we provide them with eco-conscious education. At GSGF, we aim to introduce schools to teach our future leaders about sustainable practices and eco-friendly technology through hands-on activities. They will grow their own produce and sell it to the local community. These experiences will prepare them to make an impact on the world.
An ode to resilience and vitality, salmon and children navigate the world with their resilience, letting nature guide them.
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