RICHMOND — The Virginia State Parks system is hosting more than 40 events on Saturday, April 22, in recognition of Earth Day, according to the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR).
“This year’s theme, Invest in Our Planet, highlights the importance of dedicating our time, resources and energy to understand the critical environmental issues we face and working together to mitigate the impact of climate change on our communities,” the department said.
According to DCR, volunteers can find Earth Day events at one of the 41 state parks across Virginia this weekend, with activities including habitat and crafting workshops, nature journaling, hiking and bird watching.
There is also a long list of service projects scheduled for Earth Day, including invasive plant removal at Seven Bends State Park, it said.
“The importance of invasive species control cannot be understated. Their presence undermines natural plant communities and changes the landscape by impacting native ecology. Invasives displace native communities and have long-lasting effects on the immediate and surrounding area,” said Seven Bends State Park Manager Dustin Haymaker. “Volunteering for invasive removal events can have a profound and long-lasting impact that helps maintain a healthy and native environment for future generations to enjoy.”
Other service projects at state parks include beach, river and trail cleanups, and tree and wildflower planting.
For more information, go to the DCR Earth Day events page.
