Echo Hill Park in Clinton Township was abuzz with excitement on April 20th, as it celebrated the return of the Earth Day Festival, welcoming over 500 enthusiastic attendees from the local community and beyond. The event, which celebrated environmental awareness and appreciation, showcased a diverse range of activities and attractions, making it a memorable and educational experience for all.
Commissioner Director Jeff Kuhl shared, “The Hunterdon County Earth Day Festival is a wonderful opportunity to promote environmental stewardship and sustainability. Whether it’s in your own backyard, preserved open space, or a local park, it is important to appreciate and protect the environment. Thank you to Ms. Tarlowski and the Division of Parks and Recreation for organizing this great community event.”
One of the festival's highlights was the captivating live animal show presented by Rizzo’s Wildlife World, where attendees had the opportunity to get up close and personal with fascinating creatures from around the world. The show provided an engaging learning experience for attendees of all ages.
In addition to the wildlife showcase, the festival also featured a Lenape Lifeways program, courtesy of Native American Heritage Programs, offering insight into the rich cultural heritage and traditional practices of the Lenape people. Attendees were treated to a presentation and exhibits to provide a deeper understanding of the region's indigenous history.
The spirit of environmental stewardship was further ignited with a campfire storytelling session of Dr. Seuss's beloved tale, "The Lorax." Against the backdrop of crackling flames, attendees were reminded of the importance of protecting our planet and preserving its natural resources for future generations.
Throughout the day, festival-goers had the opportunity to engage in a variety of hands-on activities, including fishing on the park's picturesque pond, participating in a stream study to learn about local aquatic ecosystems, and getting creative with recycled and nature-themed crafts. Local environmental organizations were on hand to provide valuable information and resources, empowering attendees to take action in their own communities and make a positive impact on the planet.
"We are thrilled with the turnout and enthusiasm for this year's Earth Day Festival," said Laura Tarlowski, Superintendent of Recreation. "It's amazing to see so many people come together to celebrate and learn about the importance of environmental conservation. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all our partners, sponsors, volunteers, and attendees for making this event a resounding success."
Hunterdon County Division of Parks and Recreation’s Earth Day Festival serves as a reminder that by working together, we can make a difference in protecting and preserving our planet for generations to come. For more information about Hunterdon County Division of Parks and Recreation and upcoming events, please visit: co.hunterdon.nj.us/479/Parks-Recreation
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