Earth Day Volunteers Photo by Ed Reed, Refuge Volunteer

Finding Hidden Treasures Photographer: Dennis Loughlin, Refuge Volunteer and president of Forsythe's Stay Focused Photo Club

Volunteers across the country celebrated Earth Day by participating in events to show their concern for the planet's environment and natural resources.  On Saturday, April 19, over 200 community-minded volunteers helped clean up the Wildlife Drive at the Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge in Oceanville, NJ.  For the third year in a row, Galloway Township's Department of Community Education and Clean Communities Program co-sponsored the event.  Joining as partners this year were Atlantic City Electric, who donated compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) and energy-saving information as thank you gifts for the participants, and Hard Rock Café Atlantic City, who not only helped with the clean up but provided lunches for all.  "This is the largest turn-out we have had for a cleanup," said Refuge Manager Steve Atzert.  "From Boy Scouts, to Girl Scouts, to Veterans of Foreign Wars, this was a tremendous effort." 

According to township authorities, over three tons of trash were removed from the refuge along with about 1,000 pounds of recyclable material.

National and Global Youth Service Day and Environmental Education Week were also observed with members of the Friends Environmental Education committee providing activities for the younger kids.