NAS Jax celebrates Earth Day

"We are here because it is fun and educational," remarked Kevin Gartland, NAS Jacksonville Environmental Department director. "It gives us the opportunity to educate the community and demonstrate our commitment to environmental stewardship."

Volunteers from the partnering team spent the day handing out brochures, posters and an assortment of other goodies as they explained some of the Navy's programs to protect the environment.

Jacksonville resident, Shayla Silcox, 3, proudly displays her Navy Earth Day sticker that she received from the NAS Jax Environmental Department's display at the fair.

"We are part of a partnership with the city of Jacksonville and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, NS Mayport, Fleet Readiness Center Southeast, Commander Navy Region Southeast and Naval Facilities Engineering Command Southeast. We are all working toward the common goal of environmental compliance. Being here today is a big part of leadership. It starts with education,'' added Gartland.

Billy Brownfield, assistant hazardous waste manager at NAS Jacksonville Environmental Department, enjoys the opportunity that the celebration gives him to educate people about protecting Northeast Florida's natural resources. ''This also shows the community that the Navy is working hard to ensure that the environment is preserved so it is thriving for future generations," commented Brownfield. "Educating people on ways that they can help is a rewarding experience. This isn't just a 9 to 5 job for us. We promote it and we live it."

Several Northeast Florida residents stopped by the booth to learn about the Navy's environmental initiatives while their children grabbed the free goodies the team had out on the table.

NAS Jacksonville Environmental Director Kevin Gartland educates a group of children on conservation tips for the earth's well-being.

One of the items on display at the celebration was the General Electric Motorcar (GEM) which is used at NAS Jax as a pollution prevention initiative. The unique vehicle runs on electricity only. Jacksonville resident Courtney Gay, 7, was visiting the celebration with her family and took the opportunity to learn a bit about the GEM. "I had a lot of fun learning about the car and getting to sit in it was pretty fun. It looks like a toy car," said Gay.

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.

Emily Gay, 5, (front) along with her brother, Eric Gay, 4 and her sister, Courtney Gay, 7, had a great time pretending to drive in the GEM at the Earth Day Celebration held at The Jacksonville Landing Saturday.

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.

NAS Jax Environmental Department Director Kevin Gartland treats some young fairgoers to a few moments behind the wheel of the GEM.

Assistant Hazardous Waste Manager Ken Ward helps Shayla Silcox, 3, get her Navy Earth Day sticker ready to wear.