Nature Is an Essential Service

by Matt Morris, SVT TerraCorps-AmeriCorps Member

With "nonessential" public places like malls and museums closed during the COVID-19 crisis, more people have turned to the outdoors to calm their cabin fever. SVT decided to keep our trails open to provide opportunities for everyone to enjoy open space. When used safely, nature and trails can relieve the immense stress caused by the pandemic.

SVT has changed our trail policies to address higher visitor rates and to protect people seeking solace at our reservations. We ask visitors to maintain social distance by leaving ample space for people to pass one another, wait until a bridge or boardwalk is clear before crossing, and to not touch benches, kiosks, and other structures. Dogs must be leashed to limit close contact and potential conflicts with other dogs and visitors. If the parking area is full, we ask visitors to find another designated parking area or visit a different reservation.

One of my new service activities during this time is acting as a trail ambassador where I relay the new protocols and talk with visitors (from a safe distance) about their experiences on our trails. People have been very receptive and understanding of the changes. They have also been telling me about how much joy they gain while out in nature. One woman who described herself as high-risk for COVID-19 told me how walking the trail loop with her dog brings her peace during this difficult period.

Beyond what visitors say to me, I notice the smiles and serenity on their faces. Their expressions tell me they appreciate the earth under their feet, the towering trees above them, and the many sounds of nature. The outdoors is one of the few remaining places people can escape the emotional strain of living through a pandemic.

Now more than ever, people are seeing nature as an essential service.