This year Independence Day has new meaning as many people begin to emerge from their stay-at-home cocoon. COVID-19 has changed our reality and as we venture out, we balance the needs for health and safety with the desire to return to regular activities.

Governor Murphy has issued executive orders to re-open the state with a phased approach. Please see the table that indicates some important dates and actions. What is noteworthy is that initial openings are all outdoors. This is by design and grounded in solid science since public health experts cite “that outdoor environments present reduced risks of COVID-19 transmission as compared to indoor environments.”

If you’ve been following my column here at Hopewell Valley Neighbors, you’ve noticed a recurring theme emphasizing the importance of nature and the outdoors for enhancing health and wellness. This pandemic has raised the visibility and the stakes.

I’d like to take this opportunity to recognize our forward-thinking public officials in Hopewell Valley. The mayors of Hopewell Borough, Hopewell Township and Pennington actively supported FoHVOS, D&R Greenway, and the LHT in partnership to keep local public lands open even as state and county parks were closed. Hopewell Township smartly chose to expedite applications for restaurants to offer outdoor dining.

Valley officials are proactive in their support for a healthy community. While we all know that maintaining distance and improving hygiene (such as disinfecting surfaces and handwashing) will help reduce the spread of the virus, it is equally important to take steps to reduce COVID-19 impact if we are exposed.

Outdoor exercise strengthens immune function to fight off infections and viruses. Further, several University studies indicate that outdoor exercise can reduce the duration and severity of COVID symptoms.

In addition to keeping us physically healthy, communing with nature helps our mental and spiritual health. Given the current stressors and unrest throughout the country, it is more important than ever to engage in selfcare. The easiest way is to simply get outside, take deep breaths, and walk in the vast open space available throughout the Valley. Visit fohvos.org to download a free trail guide to find and explore new forest trails close to home.

Finally, when it is time to reopen, we hope the schools will also take advantage of their outdoor spaces. Over the last three years, Community Conservation partnerships have provided funding for outdoor learning areas at every school in the Hopewell Valley Regional School District. The Pennington School and municipalities have also improved their lands through Community Conservation.

Get outside to eat, play, and breathe. Hopewell Valley is home to over a 100 miles of hiking trails so you can immerse yourself in nature. Take advantage of al fresco dining to support your local restaurant and your health. When given a choice, choose the outdoors.

Stay healthy and enjoy our Valley.

An excerpt of this article appears in June’s Hopewell Valley Neighbors magazine.