Reciprocity with the Living World
Gratitude for a remarkable three months of Wild Splendor tours
“Paying attention is a form of reciprocity with the living world,
receiving the gifts with open eyes and open heart.” – Robin Wall Kimmerer
After nearly two years without in-person events, we were thrilled to safely gather again in small groups on our 2021 Wild Splendor tours. This was a new format for us and a big change from our typical end-of-year gala. We were astounded at the overwhelmingly positive response from our community. What better way to reconvene than to witness nature first-hand?
To truly capture the spirit of celebration, we even handed out our first-ever Columbia Land Trust chocolate bars!
“Both the chum salmon and sandhill crane migrations have been happening here for millions of years. It was so inspiring to see this truly wild splendor, normally just out of sight for most of us in the river and the sky, not noticeable unless you are paying attention. Both species are threatened, and it was gratifying to show our supporters what they are helping to conserve and restore,” said Executive Director Glenn Lamb.
In total, we hosted 12 days of tours over three months at two locations in Vancouver. We welcomed more than 300 visitors — an incredible showing of attendance and support. This new model allowed us to welcome wonderfully diverse community members, including youth and their families, novice and expert birders, people new to the Land Trust or to the Northwest, in addition to friends that have lived here and supported us for decades.
Despite a handful of days with disagreeable weather or obscured views, we were grateful to spend time with each other, to share stories, and to thoughtfully observe the seasonal routines of marvelous wildlife. We concluded these tours with a renewed sense of appreciation, for both the power of nature and the power of community.
Thank you to all who attended, we hope to see you again soon!
Photos by (clockwise from top left): Kelsey Farabee, Roger Williams, Linda Steider, Kelsey Farabee
We would also like to thank our many generous sponsors.
Your support made countless magical interactions with nature possible! 