Goodfellow celebrates Earth Day Published April 21, 2014 By Senior Airman Michael Smith 17th Training Wing Public Affairs GOODFELLOW AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Each year, Air Force installations around the world observe Earth Day, April 22, by taking actions to support the Air Force's Earth Day theme of "Conserve Today - Secure Tomorrow." This year, Goodfellow will help celebrate Earth Day by turning the fourth week of April into Earth Week. The Earth Week activities help raise awareness and promote participation in environmental programs focusing on sustainability. "Sustainability is promoting a long-term balance with the environment by not depleting natural resources and using less than you take in," said Arthur T. Silver, 17th Civil Engineer Squadron base environmental coordinator. Silver mentioned that Goodfellow already does this by xeriscaping, which is the use of native species while landscaping new construction sites and renovations. "Native plants require no more extra water than what is given to them from rainfall," said Silver. "They also require minimal pesticides due to the fact that they have natural defense against pests and animals in the area." With the city of San Angelo and Goodfellow currently in drought status, water conservation is a top priority for the base. "Goodfellow Air Force Base is the largest user of water in the area," said Mary C. Lumsdon, 17th Civil Engineer Squadron Base Energy manager. "Goodfellow will only be turning on limited irrigation systems unless the city implements drought level three. They also reduced washing of government vehicles, static displays and flushing fire hydrants." To find out ways to participate in Earth Day by conserving today and securing tomorrow, visit http://www.afcec.af.mil/news/earthday2014/,or join Team Goodfellow in one or more of the following activities: Goodfellow Earth Week 2014: April 22 - Distribution of awareness handouts in dorms and housing - Recycling Presentations with handouts at Youth Center April 23- Green Product Awareness tables at the Exchange and Commissary April 24 - Xeriscape Planting Event with wing, group, and squadron leadership at Hunt Housing Community Center 9 a.m. - Recycling Presentations with handouts at Child Development Center - Energy Awareness Table at the Exchange - HazWaste Amnesty Day, on base chemicals only. For more information call Arthur Silver at 325-654-3456. April 25 - Recycled Art Contest Judging at CDC and Youth Center 2 p.m. - Base wide Clean Up April 26 - Off base volunteer event at San Angelo Friends of the Environment and The Citizens' Recycling Center, 702 Warehouse Rd. 8 a.m to 4 p.m.
