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Growing on the High Plains: Earth Day Birthday

Today we celebrate more than half a century of Earth Days, so I thought we’d spend some time with the history of this national observance for our dear Planet Earth. The origins of this holiday go back to the hippie era, but it might surprise you that the “flower children” had less to do with it coming about than a politician from the northern US. Tune in for this week’s Growing on the High Plains as we reflect on the environmental activists that sparked a revolution for conservation and preservation of clean air, water, and land across the globe. And remember: every day is EARTH DAY if you’re sure to take care to reduce waste, reuse everything you can, conserve water by xeriscaping, and recycle when you can. Happy Earth Day, High Plains!

Years ago Skip Mancini left the rocky coast of Northern California to return to her roots in the heartland. Her San Francisco friends, concerned over her decision to live in a desolate flatland best known for a Hollywood tornado, were afraid she would wither and die on the vine. With pioneer spirit, Skip planted a garden. She began to learn about growing not only flowers and vegetables, but hearts and minds. If you agree that the prairie is a special place, we think you'll enjoy her weekly sojourns into Growing on the High Plains.