Drumheller

A student group from Whitney's school visited Drumheller Springs last Friday, where the teacher asked me to discuss the history of Chief Garry's school, along with the many indigenous plants growing nearby.

Everyone seemed to enjoy the experience, but one parent in particular was moved by the presentation. "I had no idea so many amazing things grew in our own backyard."

Her comment gave me the opportunity to explain the deeper meaning of our field trip. I said, "Many people look at the rocky countryside surrounding Spokane and think that it has no value. They don't realize that places like this are really gardens, filled with edible and medicinal plants. Awareness changes people. You can't love or respect something you don't know. If people get to know this place, maybe then they'll come to love and protect it."