Earth Day: A Time to Act and Appreciate Our Planet
Earth Day is celebrated every year on April 22. It is a global event focused on protecting the environment and raising awareness about issues such as climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss.
Earth Day was founded by Gaylord Nelson, and the first official celebration was held in 1970 in the United States. Today, it is observed in more than 190 countries worldwide. Earth Day helped launch the modern environmental movement and led to major changes, including the creation of the Environmental Protection Agency.
In 2026, Earth Day continues to emphasize climate action, renewable energy, and protecting ecosystems. Schools, community organizations, and individuals participate in events and educational efforts to spread awareness. Activities such as tree planting and cleanup projects in parks, rivers, and neighborhoods are hands-on ways to involve entire communities. Even a quick cleanup walk around your neighborhood, park, or roadside can make an immediate impact.
Family and individual involvement can include reducing waste through recycling and composting. Check if your town offers recycling drives or sustainability workshops. Supporting sustainable products and conserving energy also help preserve our planet. Clothes dryers are known for consuming large amounts of energy. Using an outdoor clothesline harnesses the sun’s energy and leaves clothes smelling fresh. When replacing appliances look for information about their energy consumption. Not only will using less energy be more cost efficient, it also preserves our natural resources.
As gardening season begins, consider selecting pollinator-friendly plants that attract butterflies and hummingbirds. Did you know that planting a single oak tree can support more insect and bird species than an entire yard of non-native plants? Try adding a couple of native plants to your garden each year—you may be amazed at the difference, as they attract both pollinators and birds. Reuse, recycle, or return old plastic pots and trays. Consider biodegradable pots for seedlings, which can be planted directly into the soil. You can also make organic plant fertilizer using simple materials like weeds and water. Involve the children in your life by passing down a love of nature and gardening. (The Old Farmer’s Almanac-2026)
It’s also a great day to enjoy outdoor activities like visiting a park. In 2026, Minnesota State Parks will offer free admission on the following days:
- Saturday, April 25
- Saturday, June 13
- Friday, November 27
These free admission days allow everyone to explore the parks without needing a vehicle permit. While there, consider taking a walk on one of the many trails, going for a bike ride, or enjoying a picnic. Sometimes the simplest activities create the most lasting memories.
Summer, fall, winter, spring, the seasons rotate as each brings its special beauty to this Earth of ours. Winter’s snow and summer’s flowers; frozen rivers will flow come spring. There is a renewal of everything. -Edna Frohock
Submitted by: North Country Community Health Services and Beltrami County Community Health Services- www.ncchb.org or www.co.beltrami.mn.us/services/public-health/ or find us on Facebook-North Country Community Health Services (Beltrami, Clearwater, Hubbard and Lake of the Woods Public Health)