Earth Day began on April 22 1970. It was the largest worldwide day of protest and awareness ever organized. It remains so to this day.
The diverse groups of people who support this cause range from Republicans to Democrats; rich and poor; urban and rural; business and labor; and various corporations. Young and old alike have worked to protect Planet Earth over all these years. Lots of good changes happened because of their advocacy.
In the 1980’s legislation passed that reflected the need to preserve the environment. The Endangered Species Act and the Marine Mammal Protection became law. The Environmental Protection Agency was born. DDT was banned and several bird species began their climb back to healthy numbers.
2000’s Earth Day were focused on the changing climate. Clean energy sources were developed and encouraged.
Locally, Clear Lakers have recognized the importance of caring for our incredibly beautiful home. In 1965 the April Mirror Reporter reported that citizens were encouraged by the City and Chamber to clear up the accumulated junk of winter. They urged homeowners and business to spruce up with paint and make necessary repairs. A city wide trash collection was scheduled. Large trash pick up day has been a thing for decades.
In 1970 a group of students formed a new club. Named SEWAGE ( Students Earnestly Worried About a Garbagey Environment) they organized many Earth friendly events.
Clear Lake Earth Day committee launched in 1977. The following year the Chamber and City joined forces and the group has operated to this day. Any funds they generate go to Earth friendly causes in our town.
Similar to the worldwide organization, many different factions add their time and talents to this cause. Citizens, students, schools, businesses, employees and organizations like the DNR, Preservation of the Lake, North Iowa Landfill and others too numerous to list lend their time and resources.
One jewel in the crown of these initiatives is the incredible achievement of the cleaning up of our beautiful lake. We get to see the successful results of a huge group effort.
Everyone is invited to participate in the weeklong and beyond activities of our local Earth Day. Visit the Earth Day website or find them on Facebook. The Chamber calendar has the list of the full schedule too. There truly is something for everyone. Enjoy being involved on this third rock from the sun.
The SEWAGE article is from the Clear Lake Yearbook of 1972. Susan Connell is pictured on the right.
The mission statement can be found on the Earth Day website.
The photo is from a Green Expo at the surf, a traditional Earth Day event.
