July 13 hw in class

And as such…

We certainly know that neglect of local Creek Systems is a world-wide problem and a principal cause of environmental decay.  For generations we have changed local ecosystems to suit our own individual and collective needs. And now it’s finally starting to make a significant impact in how we see the world ; and how the world treats us.  The problem of creek neglect is one that has to be solved locally. Why? it takes a reteaching, a  showing if you will to those that are unaware that the way they are acting towards the sensitive areas around them is not the correct one.

                A viable solution to this is a volunteer group who has oversight from professionals in hydrology (UofL Stream Institute for example). It has been predicted that streams impacted by Urban Stream Syndrome have substantially more erosion and, significantly less biodiversity than those that are not. Furthermore, it has been shown that this cause of stream decay is second only to the agriculture industry.

                Calling on this, I say that a community action group ought to be put together to protect this creek properly. For if we cast a blind eye, if we ignore this, the world as we know it will not be. No longer will kids be able to hunt for crayfish in the streambeds for the crayfish cannot live there. No longer can one sit and listen to the gentle flow of water because it would be a torrent of water cutting through the streambed the bedrock.

                The naysayers will say “Community action never works” and “We need a government initiative to get serious about this” I disagree, and I call to your attention the irrevocable success of the “Appalachian Trail Conservancy” an entirely non-profit community led initiative to maintain the natural environment. One that has for generations kept the Appalachian trail, that is some 2100 miles long just as majestic  as the day it was dreamed of.

                As such I find this Kentucky Creek Preservation Collection absolutely necessary, not only to protect the life that has existed since time immemorial but also to protect the cultural legacy and gift of streams to our children, and our children’s children.