NAS Jax celebrates Earth Day

"We are here every year to let the public know that the Navy is concerned about environmental issues and that we do our part for environmental stewardship," said NAS Jax Environmental Director Kevin Gartland.

The volunteers at the booth handed out stickers, bookmarks and flyers about environmental responsibility and educational programs the station offers.

"It was a great opportunity to meet educators who are looking for another place to visit that teaches about the environment and things kids can do to help," remarked NAS Jax Assistant Natural Resources Manager Angela Glass. "There are several teachers ready to plan their field trip to the base now!"

Many people stopped by the booth to grab a bag and fill it up with all the things they need to learn about the environment. This year's display included fire equipment NAS Jax foresters use during a controlled burn. Some of the questions asked included why the station performs controlled burns on their properties and how it's done.

NAS Jax Environmental Director Kevin Gartland, left, explains how controlled burns work to visitors at the Earth Day celebration at The Jacksonville Landing Saturday. Photo by Angela Glass

Jarret Towns is interested in becoming a firefighter and was anxious to try on the gear. "This is cool!" he said when trying on the hat, jacket and holding the drip torch. The drip torch is a heavy-duty aluminum canister that the foresters use to start controlled burns to eliminate some of the underbrush that fuels wildfires.

Karsen Newman, 6, loves coming to the Earth Day celebration every year according to his mother, Andrea. "He is concerned about the environment and this is a great place to learn," she said.

The Navy has recognized NAS Jacksonville's environmental protection programs as being among the best. They've undertaken several initiatives to preserve our natural resources including conservation education of the station's military and civilian work force and the children who visit the NAS Jacksonville Interpretive Center and two nature trails.

NAS Jax Environmental personnel participated in the annual Earth Day celebration at The Jacksonville Landing Saturday. Photo by Angela Glass

Also recognized is the base's forest management program which includes conversion from slash to longleaf pines to increase the gopher tortoise habitats. Fish and wildlife protection also occurs through relocation of species to accomplish mission goals, making brush piles to increase habitat and providing signage to educate people. Annual shoreline clean ups are also held to maintain the station's beautiful shores.

The first Earth Day celebration began in 1970 as part of a nationwide grassroots demonstration. The United States recognizes Earth Day on April 22, however many of the events celebrating this day are held throughout the week.