STAFF REPORTS
news@allwnynews.com
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation is commemorating the 47th anniversary of Earth Day with DEC-sponsored events around the state from today through April 29. The earth-friendly activities include multiple opportunities for New Yorkers to connect with nature by hiking, observing wildlife, planting trees, and learning about the importance of protecting the environment.
“Earth Day is a good reminder that we all play a role in ensuring that future generations are able to enjoy the state’s natural resources and benefit from a clean environment,” said Commissioner Basil Seggos. “I encourage all New Yorkers to participate in some of the state’s week-long activities and learn what we can do to help protect the environment every day and take a moment to get outside and enjoy the incomparable natural resources our state has to offer.”
Earth Day was founded by Wisconsin U.S. Senator Gaylord Nelson in 1970 after he toured the devastation of the 1969 massive oil spill in Santa Barbara, California. On April 22, 1970, demonstrations by an estimated 20 million Americans advocated for a healthy, sustainable environment.
Later that same year, DEC and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency were created and the Clean Air Act was enacted, providing the authority for federal and state governments to limit emissions. In 1972, sweeping amendments were made to the federal Water Pollution Control Act, predecessor to the Clean Water Act. The Endangered Species Act became law in 1973.
Local Earth Week 2017 Activities:
Today
Fungi with a Fun Gal: 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM
Reinstein Woods Environmental Education Center, 93 Honorine Drive, Depew
Explore the wonderful world of mushrooms! Enjoy a walk to look at mushrooms that we find, while learning the basics of mushroom identification and how fungi contribute to the ecosystem. Registration is required. For more information or to register, call (716) 683-5959.
Volunteer Opportunity – Earth Day Volunteer Open House: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Reinstein Woods Environmental Education Center, 93 Honorine Drive, Depew
Become a volunteer for the environment. Explore volunteer opportunities at Reinstein Woods, such as greeting visitors, becoming a nature guide or helping care for trails. For adults 18 years and older; those under 18 must be accompanied by a guardian or parent.
Aliens! 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM
Reinstein Woods Environmental Education Center, 93 Honorine Drive, Depew
Are there visitors from outer space in Reinstein Woods? No, just plants and animals that have been introduced from other parts of the world. Join us for a guided tour to meet some of these alien invaders. Registration is required. For more information or to register, call (716) 683-5959.
Wednesday April 26, 2017
Birdwatching Walk: 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM
Reinstein Woods Environmental Education Center, 93 Honorine Drive, Depew
Join us for a guided walk to search for seasonal birds. Bring binoculars if you have them. Registration is required. For more information or to register, call (716) 683-5959.
Thursday April 27, 2017
After-School Escape: 4:30 PM – 5:30 PM
Reinstein Woods Environmental Education Center, 93 Honorine Drive, Depew
Together, kids and their parents or caregivers can enjoy a fun, hour-long outdoor activity. For children in grades K through 5. No registration required.
Saturday April 29, 2017
Nature Paints: 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM
Reinstein Woods Environmental Education Center, 93 Honorine Drive, Depew
Learn how artists made paints before the introduction of synthetic materials. Materials fee: $4 ($2 for Friends of Reinstein Woods members.) This class is for children ages 10 and older. Registration is required. For more information or to register, call (716) 683-5959.
Additional announcements will be made throughout the week. For more family friendly earth week events and information about Earth Day, including 50 At Home Earth Day tips, visit the DEC website.
