Earth Day in Southern West Virginia

A mindful senator from Wisconsin, some 43 years ago, inspired the idea that there were people out there that were devoted to protecting and preserving the natural resources of this great country.  Gaylord Nelson, hoping to propel environmental protection into the national political mainstream, organized what was the first Earth Day in 1970.

It was originally pitched as a “national teach-in on the environment,” and what started as a small movement of some

like-minded enthusiasts turned into a worldwide celebration that encompasses over 185 countries. Earth Day’s footprint in this country is massive, as the EPA, Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, and Endangered Species Act were all spawned from this initial movement.

As April 22 approaches, let’s take a look at some of the ways you can get involved and help celebrate Earth Day in southern West Virginia.

Festivities

Southern West Virginia is a wonderful model for the importance of Earth Day. With so many natural resources protected by federal and state agencies, many people live here because of the opportunities the protected areas provide. Bountiful plant and animal life, clean water, and aesthetic beauty are all reasons for southern West Virginians to celebrate. Here are some of the ways locals and visitors can honor Earth Day this year.

• Fayetteville Earth Day – Celebration on Saturday April 21st, in Downtown Fayetteville from noon to 5pm. This gathering features booths, a climbing wall, kid activities, a farmers market, a bike swap and more.
• Girl Scouts of Black Diamond and Southern West Virginia Community and Technical College Earth Day Celebration – Saturday April 21st, 9am – 1pm at SWVCTC Logan campus. Artisans will be making crafts from recycled materials, and there will be workshops and kid activities.
• Earth Day – Clay Center in Charleston April 21st, 12pm – 4pm. Three floors of art and science exhibits, science and art themed activities, and lots of family focused fun can all be found at the Clay Center.
• Earth Day 2012 at the Appalachian Folklife Center, Pipestem, WV.  Saturday, April 21st from 11am to 9pm.  Event goes on Rain or Shine with live music, a recycled clothing fashion show, drum circles, tree planting, lunch and more.

Other Ways to Participate

Our local celebrations are wonderful Earth Day options; you can also contribute in your own way. Here are other things you can do on Earth Day (or any other day of the year) that will help make a lasting impression.

• Join a local Volunteer Watershed Organization
• Plant a native tree or bush
• Visit local recycling center and start household recycling program
• Plant and raise a pesticide-free vegetable garden
• Start a composting area at your house
• Go on a nature hike
• Do a litter clean-up at a local park
• Make pine cone bird feeders
• Donate to the Nature Conservancy

These are just a few ways you can make a difference at your home, in your local area or even in a larger capacity. Southern West Virginia is a great place to recreate and commune with nature.  Many thanks are due to the motivated, conscious individuals who started Earth Day.

How will you celebrate Earth Day?