Barbara Baird | Brookline, MA

Barbara Baird is an outdoor enthusiast, and supporter of the Southern Utah Wilderness Alliance.

Why does wilderness matter to you?

Getting outside of cities & everyday life is a true tonic. It helps you relax, it clears your mind, it clears your vision, it quiets everything in your body & mind. Things that may be bothersome become much less so, & may disappear altogether. On top of all that is how beautiful it is; you see the pattern leaves make in the breeze, you hear birdsong, you notice the sky & clouds. If it's dark enough you see the forgotten night sky with millions of stars. Maybe even the Northern lights. We are closer to earth biologically than we think, which is why we need wilderness yo make us remember.

Why does wilderness matter to your community?

Living in a city without trees, grass & other plants would be devastating to humans, whether they know it or not. I'm fortunate to live fairly close to the Arnold Arboretum. & Franklin park, masterpieces of landscaping by Olmstead. It's my version of wilderness , as it appears to be for many on a weekend.

Share a story about a special experience you have had in wilderness.

Going down the Green River Utah in a canoe was my first experience in real wilderness. It was so quiet I could hear the silence, which I'd never experienced before. The sheer size of the place & color of the canyon walls. I felt so small, my true place in the universe. I was lucky enough to be able to go back several times & will be grateful until I die.

What are your hopes for the future of wilderness?

I pray that the powers that be have sense enough to protect wilderness areas forever.