Shoal Sanctuary teaches stewardship of Earth

By ROBBYN BROOKS
robbynb@nwfdailynews.com
MOSSY HEAD — The Hebrew word for “faith” is a verb, not a noun.
And as Christians, Robert Larson thinks actions should reflect your beliefs.
That’s why he and his wife, Chris, have opened up their property, the Shoal Sanctuary, for the second annual Work the Land celebration.
“Earth Day is a way to get people focused on the planet,” Larson said.
Last year, about 20 people visited the sanctuary to help renew the native longleaf forest in Mossy Head. So far, more than 50 people have signed up.
“Earth is our home,” Chris Larson said. “It is imperative we take care of it.”
Participants in the celebration will have the opportunity to hike, enjoy some downtime in a hammock, use the rope swing or build a sandcastle with international castle builder Mark Flynn.
Americorps volunteers, the Peacemaking Circle and representatives from the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of the Emerald Coast will also be on hand.
The Larsons take pride in being good stewards of the property because it has been widely recognized as home to many animals.
Smithsonian representatives have visited the sanctuary since 1926. The museum now keeps fossils recorded to be 14 million years old that were found at Shoal Sanctuary.
“Protecting this land and educating others is our contribution,” Chris Larson said. “You plant seeds and you never know what will take root.”
Although registration was required for today’s Work the Land celebration, the Larson’s encourage people to call to find out other times the land will be open to visitors.
“Earth is like a footprint of God,” Larson said. “Every thing is sacred and good in God’s eyes, and we have to keep it that way.”
Call 651-0392 for more information and directions.