Augusta University partners for Earth Day celebration

Augusta University has again partnered several other entities to hold Augusta’s Earth Day celebration, which promotes environmental responsibility and sustainable living initiatives, on Saturday, April 16.

Held at Phinizy Swamp Nature Park, the event will feature live entertainment, local arts and crafts vendors, green and local business vendors and family activities. This is the third year Augusta University has served as a partner in the event, this time teaming up with Phinizy Center for Water Sciences and the City of Augusta.

The event starts at 10 a.m. and runs until 3 p.m., rain or shine. There is no charge for admission.

Exhibits and activities include a reptile exhibit, a Flight of the Raptor exhibit, guided hikes of Phinizy Swamp, face painting, inflatables for children, concessions, sweet grass baskets and giveaways. Sid Mullis, County Extension Coordinator with Georgia Extension Service, will give a Shade Trees for the Home Landscape class.

Live entertainers include the 434^th Army Band from Ft. Gordon, Captain Planet and Southeastern Reptile Rescue.

On-site recycling will be available at the event for materials like old batteries, electronics, paper, plastic, metal, tires, glass and Styrofoam. Augusta University’s Environmental Health & Safety Division will be on site giving away tree seedlings. The Cancer Center will have a prize drawing and “I Want to Quit” items.

Phinizy Center for Water Sciences needs volunteers for the Earth Day event. Completed volunteer applications must be submitted by April 8. Contact Alan Saul for more information.

Phinizy Swamp Nature Park is located at 1858 Lock and Dam Road.