N5901

Earth Day

50th Anniversary

Cover Announcement 

This individually hand painted cachet really captures the spirit of Earth Day which is meant to remind us all to be aware of the importance of a healthy and robust environment.

In the background, a small herd of buffalo glaze on the prairie. They were hunted to the verge of extinction when extraordinary efforts on several fronts restored the excellent numbers that we have in today's herds. Bringing back "tall grass" prairies in Oklahoma translated to prime habitat. States like the Dakotas and Montana provided large reserves for the mighty animals to thrive and multiply. National Parks like Yellow-stone offered protected sanctuaries where the buffalo could roam once again as amazing symbols of the American West.

A black-footed ferret pops up from his burrow and is the subject of an incredible story. This animal was actually listed as extinct when an unlikely and breath-taking event occurred. One day a farmer's dog brought back the carcass of a dead animal that the farmer did not recognize. He contacted state conservation officials, and to their total surprise, it was found to be a black-footed ferret. After a diligent search, a small colony was located. All of those wild ferrets were captured and used for a well-planned breeding program (like China does with pandas), and it has been so successful that now black-footed ferrets are continually being reintroduced into the wild.

Also shown are the threatened kinglet, a bee symbolizing a severe drop of populations of these pollinating insects, a columbine flower and leaves and acorns of the mighty oak. Sunshine and rain are also feafured because healthy earth surfaces need a balance of each.

It is a pleasure to announce that my Earth Day cover is now ready. The watercolored artwork really captures the theme, and I believe this cachet will be judged "Best of Issue." Earth Day. Collins #N5901 at $16.50.