FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 18, 2016
DEP CELEBRATES EARTH DAY WITH
STATEWIDE ENVIRONMENTAL EVENTS
~Earth Day activities inspire environmental
preservation~
 Washington Oaks Gardens State Park is hosting guided walks to celebrate Earth Day.
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – In celebration of Earth Day, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection invites Florida
residents and visitors to participate in a variety of fun activities focused
on volunteerism, environmental education and recreation in the state's unique ecosystems and
natural beauty.
Celebrated since 1970, Earth Day has encouraged environmental
conservation and protection for 46 years. A host of state parks and aquatic
preserves are offering festivals, guided hikes, litter cleanups and informational sessions to encourage residents and visitors alike to get outside and contribute to
bettering their communities.
“I encourage all Florida residents to celebrate Earth Day outdoors, and a Florida state park is the perfect place,”
said Florida State Parks Director Donald Forgione. “Parks around the state are offering special events to recognize the importance of protecting our natural and cultural resources.”
Some events appropriate for visitors of
all ages include: an Earth Day scavenger hunt at
Lake Kissimmee State Park; a ranger-led hike
through diverse natural plant communities at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park;
and live entertainment, food
vendors and guided walks at Washington Oaks Gardens State Park. For
those with green thumbs, Bahia Honda State Park is offering a native
plant and tree giveaway, a sandcastle contest and kid-friendly craft stations.
Another Earth Day celebration event offered by DEP, in partnership with the Florida Department of Transportation’s “reThink Your Commute”
program, is a Lunch & Learn presentation
on Thursday, April 21 from 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
at the department’s Central District Office
in Orlando. Learn about sustainable commuting options such as carpooling, biking to work or
riding the SunRail, that contribute to better air quality, conserve natural resources
and save money.
For more information on local Earth Day events, click here.
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