Rockland’s Environmental Future
For the last 30 years in Rockland County our Department of Environmental Resources (DER) and Environmental Management Council ask 5th Grade students from local schools to compete in the Eleanor Burlingham Earth Day Essay, Poster, and Poetry contest and every year we receive the entries I am always incredibly astounded by what we receive.
We all know a picture is worth 1,000 words and the artwork these young bright minds created speaks volumes and paints a promising portrait of hope for our future thanks to a generation of young individuals eager to be active and involved in their community. This contest offers a unique opportunity for the County of Rockland to work with local schools to enhance awareness of efforts that can be undertaken locally to make a difference.
This year the students answered the question, “Do you like spending time outside with different plants and animals? Do you like gardening with your friends and family?”
I was proud to take part in the ceremony honoring the 9 contest winners from the many entries we received this year. What struck me when reading these essays, poems and posters was that these students truly appreciate and love the world around them.
This year’s winners are Valentina Rexing, Audrey Cho, Madeline Clark, Caroline Sletner, and Savvy Guinto or Cottage Lane Elementary School, Izzy Vaccaro, Madeleine Huang, and Ariana Prandi of Viola Elementary School and John Collins of Pearl River Middle School.
I let the winners know that we in County government also love the outdoors and are actively doing our part to protect the environment for future generations including established an Agricultural & Farming Education center in the Town of Ramapo. The 24- acre farm was acquired by the County in 2002 as part of the Open Space Acquisition Program. This farm is now providing schools with tours and educational programs in agriculture, livestock, and beekeeping.
Through our Open Space Acquisition Program, we received $10 million in funding this budget year to acquire new properties. After receiving 17 nominations for consideration there are 4 properties under consideration to be purchased.
Our beautiful new Pollinator Garden installed at Kakiat County Park is providing a pesticide-free food and habitat source for pollinating insects like bees and butterflies.
Our Water Conservation District is continuing to lead the annual Minisceongo Creek Watershed Cleanup. Last year’s event removed 800 pounds of debris from the creek.
We are matching this level of commitment when it comes to green energy as well. We have already transitioned to green electricity, utilizing 100% US generated wind power while saving taxpayer dollars.
We are also dedicated to reaching New York State Climate Smart Communities Bronze status and will continue to consider climate smart initiatives for future county projects to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
These winners not only honor Ms. Burlingham’s legacy by demonstrating an appreciation of the environment but also leave me proud to see the next generation’s deeply rooted commitment to the environment.
We must continue to work together to keep the future of Rockland as bright as it can be.
