Arbor Day Environmental Destinations

Since first being celebrated in 1872, Arbor Day has invited everyone to plant a tree in an effort to protect the environment.

Held on the last Friday in April, Arbor Day is also recognized as a time to reflect upon ways to be proactive and make a positive impact on the environment.

Perhaps you’re looking to make a difference beyond just Arbor Day? In the spirit of the day, Manchester Patch has a few ways you can volunteer your time and have an eco-positive day out.

Spend a day cleaning up a local park – The next time the weather outside is beautiful and you must spend a day outdoors, head down to one of Manchester or Lakehurst’s local parks to lend a hand. Harry Wright Lake in Whiting and Lake Horicon Park in Lakehurst are great for relaxing and expieriencing nature, and a visit there also offers an opportunity to help out. Did a stranger leave a fast food bag lying around? Pick it up and throw it in the trash. You’ll help protect the habitat for native wildlife while making your local park a nicer place.

A tree planting for our troops – This Saturday, April 30, students at Whiting Elementary School will host an Operation Shoebox packing project from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. as they put together care packages for U.S. troops stationed overseas. As part of the event, a tree will be planted to in honor of the troops serving the U.S. military.

Educate others at Cattus Island Park – Perhaps you’re looking to help beyond just one afternoon? Cattus Island will soon be conducting volunteer training for those interested in leading the park’s educational presentations.  This will give you the opportunity to teach others about some of the wonders of nature and help share with them the importance of caring for the environment.  If interested, call Chris Claus at 732-270-6960.

Help clean up the Barnegat Lighthouse – Maybe you’re looking to take your clean-up efforts beyond your own town and wish to clean up a state park with a group of friends? Barnegat Lighthouse provides groups an opportunity to volunteer their time cleaning up the park, including the beach and jetty areas.  They do ask that groups arrange their volunteer time in advance. Call 609-494-2016 for more information.

Stay local, save gas and money – If you're looking to rest from all that Arbor Day work, you can still help the environment on your relaxation day. Instead of driving all the way to Seaside, spending gas, time and money, stay local and enjoy the beach at Lake Horicon Park or Harry Wright Lake. By staying nearby, you’ll spend less time on the road, reducing your carbon footprint and helping the environment without having to even lift a finger. And with gas prices going up using less gas means more money in your pocket as well.