PRESS ROOM

ROYAL OAK, Mich., 

In observance of Earth Day (April 22), the Belle Isle Nature Center is hosting its second annual Green Day celebration on Saturday, April 21, 2018, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.  The free event features indoor and outdoor activities, including earth-friendly crafts, nature hikes and zookeeper talks.

“To commemorate the global holiday celebrating life on our planet, we are offering visitors an opportunity to learn about actions they can take to sustain a clean, green environment,” said Amy Greene, nature centers director for the Detroit Zoological Society (DZS).

Crafts will include seed balls – made of soil, clay and seeds – to create throw-and-grow plants.  “These plants will attract and feed the local pollinators that are so vital to environmental health,” said Greene.

In addition, guests will learn how to make no-sew tote bags from upcycled T-shirts as well as their own green cleaning products from biodegradable and natural materials.

Green Day will also feature local conservation specialists who will illustrate the benefits of green initiatives through an assortment of artistic and educational demonstrations.  Visual art from macro photographer Joseph Ferraro of Ferndale will illustrate how insects are crucial to the environment and why humans should pay close attention to the earth’s smallest ambassadors.  In addition, local beekeepers will share with guests how they can prepare a healthy habitat for bees in their backyards.