“Your global footprint” is a phrase we hear a lot in the environmental world. While it can be easy to picture this as a big stain left on the Earth, it’s important to remember that leaving a footprint doesn’t have to be a bad thing. Leaving your mark on the Earth can be something positive.
My personal favorite example is the beaver. Nobody looks at a lush beaver pond and finds disgust in the way they alter their environment to fit their needs. Rather, we marvel at the habitat they create, the way their ponds recharge aquifers or help fight wildfires. I believe humans can learn many lessons from beavers, but perhaps the most important is the idea that we can sustainably alter our environment to suit our needs while also maintaining what is there, or even creating something new. This is something that youth advocates do well—we look out for both what is left and what we can regenerate for the future. Young people learn from experienced activists and conservationists while also adding to the conversation. And we are excited to do our part.
But youth activism isn’t just about planning for the future—it’s about taking action now. For Youth Salmon Protectors, this means breaching the four lower Snake River dams now, before salmon go extinct. It’s about seeing obstacles as opportunities to continue working toward our common goal. What often discourages others, fuels us. When I am sitting around a campfire singing songs after a long day of banner drops and exciting advocacy work, it is impossible to feel discouraged. Our members inspire each other and create an atmosphere of incredible support and passion. When given the chance, we jump on opportunities to show more people how capable of incredible things we are. And when we aren’t given that chance, we fight to be heard.
The future of salmon conservation is bright. Youth advocates understand the impact we can have, and the impact we have to have, to sustain our environment. We are strong, smart, accomplished, and passionate. And we will save wild salmon if it is the last thing we do.
If you are a young person, or if you know a young person, I encourage you to get involved. Start by following us on Instagram (@youthsalmonprotectors) to stay updated on our work, call your representatives and tell them why you care about salmon, or educate a friend about the salmon issue. Just like the beaver, you can make a positive mark on the world around you—all it takes is a first step.
Editor’s Note: This article is written by Lilly Wilson, who serves as ICL’s Youth Engagement Assistant for University Outreach, and co-leads Youth Salmon Protectors. You can support youth activism by making a donation here, and writing ‘Youth Salmon Protectors’ in for what inspired your gift.