HARRISBURG, Pa. — Monday marked Earth Day, a time for people to go out and celebrate what nature has to offer.
But officials in Harrisburg invited people to celebrate throughout the city beyond Earth Day.
“Department of Public Works is doing a great job trying to make sure that we keep our parks clean, our streets clean, our alleys clean, and also making sure the environment here is safe for individuals to come out,” said Mayor Wanda Williams for the City of Harrisburg.
Cleanup efforts have been ongoing for weeks, including picking up illegally dumped trash and planting nearly 30 trees at Taylor Park Apartment Complex.
The city has also partnered with the state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources to develop more sustainability programs.
Like Lights Out Harrisburg, an initiative to decrease light pollution for migrating birds.
“It’s always great to have partnerships because you know you’re not working by yourself, you’re collaborating with other departments and other agencies to make sure you get something done,” Mayor Williams said.
It’s also in partnership with the National Audubon Society to provide lessons on birdwatching and the importance of biodiversity.
“Part of our mission is to ensure that we protect the natural resources that we provide for meaningful outdoor experiences at these local parks,” said DCNR Deputy Secretary, Michael Walsh.
Cleaning parks like Italian Lake are just one of several initiatives the city is taking to go greener.
“Harrisburg is a level ‘silver’ sustainable city, we are hoping to move forward and make our city a ‘gold’ city in sustainability,” said City Sustainability Director Danielle Lewis.
The city is expected to plant trees at Wilson Park at the end of the month.
Officials also encourage families to sign up for conservation programs with the Audubon Society, including bird walks through Reservoir Park, Wilson Park, and City Island that are expected to take place over the spring and summer.