GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — What started in 1970 over growing concern regarding air pollution and leaded gasoline, has evolved into a world-wide celebration of the environment and its protection.
Friday marks the 52nd Earth Day. It was spearheaded by former Wisconsin Governor, and U.S. Senator Gaylord Nelson. More than a billion people from more than 190 countries mark the event each year.
In Green Bay, students from Aldo Leopold Community School, and the Brown County Parks Department, teamed up to celebrate, by planting a tree, and picking up some trash.
The line of about 20 first and second grade students converged on the site near the Fox River Trailhead Friday morning, Their teacher says when it comes to making a difference, the youngsters have plenty of experience.
“Our kids are very environmentally aware. We’ve written letters to our elected officials regarding environmental topics. We try to do community service in Green Bay, and do little things like planting gardens for pollinators. Cleaning up trash around the neighborhood. Planting trees,” said Ned Dorff, Aldo Leopold Community School Teacher.
On this Earth Day, Brown County Parks Department officials say a young basswood, or linden tree would be selected for planting.
“This linden will ultimately grow 40 or so feet. It will provide shade, and also help with the nutrient filtration, and many other benefits of trees in our community,” said Matt Kriese, Brown County Parks Director.
Brown County leaders say planting the tree is more than just an Earth Day event. They say it reflects environmental practices they employ year-round.
“A lot of projects that we perform are leaving buffer strips planted along all of our stream banks and waterways within the parks. As well as reducing our turf mowing. As we look at it historically, parks tended to be more picnic grounds, a lot of heavy turf management. And we’re really converting some of our turf management into more prairie, natural area to ultimately help with the local ecosystems, pollinators, migratory birds, and many other species,” said Kriese.
Meanwhile students continue to finish planting the tree. Their teacher says the linden will leave a lasting memory.
“Just doing things. Every kid can use their voice, and their hands, and do something for the environment,” said Dorff.
“Happy Earth Day!” yelled the students.
The tree was donated by the Green Bay Packers, as part of their “First Downs for Trees” initiative.
