The Elkhart Environmental Center is celebrating Earth Day a bit early.
On Saturday, they’re hosting a tree giveaway, kids’ activities, the annual spring plant exchange, a habitat restoration activity, and more. The tree giveaway starts promptly at 10 a.m. and the public can grab one of 11 tree species to take home. This year’s trees are larger than those given away in the past; trees range from 2- to 5 feet tall. At 11 a.m., The event is free and family-friendly. We’ve posted more about all the activities with this story at 95-3 MNC Dot Com. Heather Starr, MNC News.
Attendees can also learn about a new group working to tackle invasive species in Elkhart County and help them remove invasive honeysuckle from around the center – and replant the area with new native trees. At noon, the public can join the Spring Seeds & Starters Exchange: bring your seeds, bulbs, and spring plant starts to exchange with other gardeners (plants must be healthy, potted in soil, and properly watered; plants and seeds must be non-invasive species). All event-long people can enjoy booths, kids’ activities (including a scavenger hunt, making recycled bubbles, and more), and food from Tako Party Food Truck.
People can learn about the environment and the services it provides by visiting one of the city department booths. The city’s aquatic biologist will be by the river to talk about the health of the Elkhart River, with live fish from the river. Other organizations will include Elkhart County Soil & Water Conservation District, Elkhart Public Library (they’re bringing their book bus), and Michiana Master Gardeners’ Association.
Admission to the event is free. Elkhart’s Earth Day is supported by Lisa Yoder State Farm, the Elkhart County Soil & Water Conservation District, and Freshieez.
For more information, call the EEC at 574-293-5070 or visit the event website at www. elkhartindiana.org/EarthDay. The EEC is located at 1717 East Lusher Ave.
• One tree per household, while supplies last.
