March 31, 2006 – It's been 26 years since the first Earth Day was held to bring attention to Earth's plight, but the Friends of V.I. National Park are continuing the tradition with an Earth Day Environmental Fair on April 21. It will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the park ballfield located adjacent to the Visitor's Center.
And the Friends will sponsor a cleanup of beaches and trails on April 22.
The fair is targeting youths, and it's being held on a Friday, the day before the official Earth Day, to make it easier for school groups to attend.
However, Friends program manager Kristen Maize said there will be environmental and recycling demonstrations that will also interest adults.
The fair will feature science exhibits, fun eco-activities, kids' games, environmental story time and a petting zoo. Kids will get to participate in a simulated archeological dig, take part in a gardening workshop, and learn about coral reefs and safe fishing techniques.
The Love City Pan Dragons will provide music throughout the day.
There will be snacks and goodies for the school children.
As for the April 22, Earth Day cleanup: Maize said groups will target trails and beaches, including those strewn with clothes left behind by people entering the territory illegally when they change into dry clothing. "That's a big problem," she said.
Maize said people can make a year's commitment to adopt a beach or a trail, they can make it a one-day cleanup of any beach or trail, or they can join another group for the cleanup.
Maize said the Friends will provide gloves and bags.
Call Maize at 779-4940 to join the cleanup or to learn more about Earth Day.

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