Self-isolation can be challenging, especially at the start of spring when new life is emerging in the watershed. It can be particularly hard for river people who would prefer to be outside surrounded by nature.
We have been racking our brains for ideas to keep our nature-loving minds busy while social distancing in our homes. Below is a list of inspiring activities our staff have put together that you can do from the comfort of your own home and yard.
“The Gnomist” is a true story about the mysterious appearance of fairy homes in a suburban forest and the magical experience shared by three women.
All across the globe humans are feeling the impacts of COVID-19 and the social distancing and time at home that comes with it. With this in mind we couldn’t think of a better time to share some past Wild & Scenic Film Festival Official Selections with you.
We plan to put a new film up every few days so be sure to check back often. We hope you all enjoy these momentary respites from the news of the day and wish you the very best as you navigate these challenging times. You can find the films here.
2. Podcasts Worth a Listen – Staff Picks
While working from home this past week our staff put together a quick list of environmental podcasts to help inspire your passion.
Bear River. Image: Gary MoonIn Defense of Plants – Podcast Series on a variety of interesting plant topics
Outside/In – solid reporting and long-form narrative storytelling to bring the outdoors to you wherever you are.
3. Call for Student Environmental Art
Do you have a creative student at home? Wild & Scenic is opening the call for student art in grades 6-12 from Nevada and Yuba Counties, to create art that inspires environmental activism or a love for nature in the form photography, two-dimensional pieces, or three-dimensional pieces. Details and submission form can be found here.
While many of us are attending to our vegetable gardens, taking some time to add a few native flowering plants can attract pollinators and birds to your backyard. Check out these suggestions from UC Davis.
5. Start Planning Your Post-COVID Camping Trip
Explore dozens of national parks from your couch thanks to Google Earth. Insider has compiled a list of the 32 national parks you can virtually visit and explore from the comfort of your own home while you plan your future camping and hiking adventures.
Self-isolation can be challenging, especially at the start of spring when new life is emerging in the watershed. It can be particularly hard for river people who would prefer to be outside surrounded by nature. 
The Wild – podcast from KUOW is worth a listen.
The Yale Environmental Film Fest moved many of their films online, streaming now for a limited time only. http://effy.yale.edu/