7 local stories that celebrate Earth Day: Tips from The Farmer's Almanac

Earth Day is celebrated around the world on April 22, 2023

According to The Farmer's Almanac, the day is meant to increase awareness of environmental issues and encourage individuals to take responsibility for the planet. Earth Day was first celebrated in 1970.

The Farmer's Almanac offered a list of activities and projects to improve the environment and you can read about how many of these are being implemented in Steinbach and the southeast.

Support pollinators

In 2021, we told this story with Annette Schewe from the Steinbach and Area Garden Club. She said there is a trend to move toward native plants, especially native perennials. Mostly in an attempt to feed the pollinators, which she believes is so critical.

 

Clean up plastic in your neighbourhood or local park

Pick Up and Walk in Steinbach is a massive clean-up project that collected 12.52 metric tonnes of garbage from around the city in 2022. This year’s event is planned for May 6 starting at the TG Smith Arena at 9 am.

 

Swapping out household products

Two years ago, we told you about a new business on Main Street in Steinbach. Milieu Market says they practice the 4 Rs. “Reduce, reuse, recycle, and refill, to help reduce plastic waste. You can bring your own bottles to fill up household cleaners, personal care products, skin care products, baby products, a whole wide range of stuff."

 

Plant a tree

The City of Steinbach has an arborist on staff to make sure the city’s trees are healthy and growing. In 2022 they announced that a larger variety of trees is being planted throughout Steinbach.

 

Use wildflowers and native plants

Just a short drive from Steinbach sits the Manitoba Tall Grass Prairie Preserve. Every summer they host a Prairie Day event that provides opportunities to learn more about the plants, birds and insects that call the prairie region home.

 

Use rain barrels

Rain barrels are a way to collect some ‘free water’. Many households in the southeast had plenty of water in July of last year.

 

Compost

In 2022, the RM of Hanover launched a pilot program for composting in Mitchell. Since September, residents of Mitchell have been able to wheel their compostable material to the end of their driveway.