LOCAL EVENTS:

April 25: Celebrate Earth Day at Santa Maria's The Natural History Museum. Free family fun and entertainment with a native plant sale. 11am-1:30pm; 2pm 1-hour walk around historic Santa Maria (RSVP at 805-614-0806; $10 donation requested). Learn more.

Celebre el Día de la Tierra en el Museo de Historia Natural. Diversión y entretenimiento familiar gratuitos, con venta de plantas nativas. De 11:00 a. m. a 1:30 pm -- a las 2:00 pm, caminata de una hora por la histórica Santa María (se solicita confirmar asistencia llamando al 805-614-0806; se sugiere una donación de $10). 

EARTH DAY HISTORY:

In 1969, a massive oil spill occurred in Santa Barbara. A U.S. Senator from Wisconsin, Gaylord Nelson, visited the spill site and was inspired to establish the first national Earth Day on April 22, 1970.  Public support for efforts to improve the environment led to the creation of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the passage of the Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, and Endangered Species Act.  Read more about Earth Day’s history. Earth Day is officially April 22 every year, and the month of April is considered Earth Month.  from: SBCounty Air Control Board

LWV POSITIONS:

Since the 1960s, the League has been at the forefront of efforts to protect air, land and water resources. Our approach to environmental protection and pollution control is one of problem solving. The League’s environmental goals aim to prevent ecological degradation, and to reduce and control pollutants before they go down the sewer, up the chimney or into the landfill. We support vigorous enforcement mechanisms, including sanctions for states and localities that do not comply with federal standards as well as substantial fines for noncompliance.

For more information on specific League of Women Voters environmental positions, go to LWVC's Natural Resources positions.