Getting More Latinos Into the Outdoors Will Increase their Presence in Conservation and Improve our Community's Health

By Jerry Cordova, a stormwater specialist and HECHO Hispanic Conservation Leadership Council member.  

When I go out and bike with groups, whether socially, through work, or the nonprofit I'm involved with, I meet people of different backgrounds, and often, I find out, through conversations, that these outdoor enthusiasts are interested in conservation. 

Getting more Latinos into the outdoors will increase their presence in conservation and get more of our voices involved in the decision-making process. 

 There are so many benefits of getting outside and into recreational activities. 

The e-bike movement is huge nowadays. The pandemic boosted e-bike sales 145 percent from 2019 to 2020, and this trend is not slowing down.  The e-bikes provide mobility and enjoyment for all of us. 

Unfortunately, obesity and diabetes are big health issues among Hispanics and also Native Americans. E-bikes are a way to recreate and increase access to the outdoors in a way we could not have done before. 

In previous years, I biked a mile and progressively increased to five and more. When you see the health benefits, you keep going for more miles. You become healthier while enjoying the outdoors and getting to know your community.  

This recreational activity is also an opportunity to bond and create memories with your loved ones. You can take your kids and your spouse biking, which can become an activity the family does together. 

The more exposure you have to green spaces and enjoy them, the more likely you will be to protect them and pass that passion for the outdoors to others and future generations who will become more conservation-minded.