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Conservation: The act of preserving, guarding, or protecting; the keeping (of a thing) in a safe or entire state; preservation. (Webster's Unabridged Dictionary)
Okay, that's the definition, but what is actually involved in doing it? There are many different ways to involve yourself in conservation, some simple, such as water conservation and energy conservation, and some complex, like nature conservancy.…
One of the easiest types of conservation is water conservation. Among the many ways you can engage in water conservation are to fill a jug with water and put it in the refrigerator for cold water instead of running the tap until the water is cold, installing a low flow shower head (especially with a shut off valve) which can cut the amount of water used during a shower by up to 70%, and, if you water your lawn, doing it in the late evening; so that the water soaks in instead of being evaporated by the sun.
Water conservation can also be encouraged at the municipal level by contacting your city council or board of alderman and expressing your desire that they upgrade their water system. Many cities have old water lines which leak or break often. Replacing old municipal water systems can save water, and municipal funds over time.
Energy conservation is just as important. One of the simplest energy conservation methods is to drive less. Plan out trips to the supermarket or the mall instead of going just to buy a gallon of milk or some new socks. The time of day also makes a big difference in traffic volume; so try to plan your trip for a time when there are less cars on the streets you travel. The less time your car engine is running, the more energy conservation you achieve.
A longer term type of conservation is becoming involved with the nature conservancy. There are nature conservancy chapters all over the country. Citizens are encouraged to contact them and join or contribute financially to their programs. Working to conserve nature can also include doing things like picking up roadside trash, or cleaning up the banks of the local stream or river.