Media Release

12 Days until Earth Day.

Driven by the County Commission's Guiding Vision, everyday is Earth Day in Alachua County.  In April, each day leading up to Earth Day (April 22), the County will be highlighting programs, services, and strategies designed to lead Alachua County into a more sustainable future.

To view all "Earth Day Countdown" press releases on the County's Facebook page, click here and click on the Earth Day tab at the top of the page.

ALACHUA COUNTY, FL - Alachua County will be planting trees and enhancing canal shore vegetation at the Newnan's Lake Powers Park (5910 SE Hawthorne Road, Gainesville) as a kick-off celebration for Earth Week 2010. The event is on Friday, April 16, 2010 from 2 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., and is open to the public.

"This is a great opportunity to improve the shoreline of Newnan's Lake, discuss with citizens why it is so important to protect natural resources in our county, work with kids and enjoy part of a Friday afternoon at the lake," says Stephen Hofstetter, Alachua County Environmental Protection Department's (ACEPD) Natural Resources Program Manager.

Volunteers from the Gainesville Earth Scouts, local environmental clubs, youth groups, and nearby residents will get hands-on experience with proper planting techniques while improving the canal's shoreline to enhance fish habitat and provide shade for locals who enjoy fishing at this County park. All volunteers will receive free pizza and a small tree to plant in their own yards.   

Informational displays from the Alachua County Natural Resources and Water Resources divisions will provide valuable information to local residents on the benefits of maintaining a natural shoreline on their properties. 

For more information about shoreline restoration, visit ACEPD's website (click here to visit), or Current Problems Inc.'s website (click here to visit).

For more information or to volunteer for the event, contact Eliana Bardi or Stephen Hofstetter of ACEPD at 352-264-6800.

40 Days of Change - For more information concerning events on and leading up to Earth Day, go to the University of Florida, Office of Sustainability's "40 Days of Change" website by clicking here.