Richmond Hill is marking Earth Month with free eco-themed family-friendly workshops and activities throughout April.
April 11 — Creating Bird Habitat webinar (free)
Every day is a good day for observing birds in your garden, from the snowy depths of winter to the height of summer bloom. Learn how to make your yard an oasis that provides food and shelter for our feathered friends from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
April 17 — Maximize Your Healthy Yard Gardening workshop (free)
Growing native trees, shrubs and wildflowers can help your garden thrive and improve the natural environment. Learn how to choose the right native plants for your yard and how to install and use rain barrels and composters at Elgin West Community Centre, 7 to 8:30 p.m.
April 19 — Trees and Wildlife workshop (free)
Trees have many benefits to the community, including providing food and shelter for wildlife. Learn about the life cycle of trees, what features can help you decipher a tree’s identity and interesting species that you can find in your neighbourhood at Elgin West Community Centre, 6 to 7 p.m.
April 19 to May 3 — Clean up, Green Up Weeks (free)
Everyone is invited to help give Richmond Hill a spring cleaning by picking up litter from around their neighbourhoods. The city will provide registered participants with gloves, garbage and recycling bags, and arrange for collection of the filled bags. Register online by April 7.
April 21 — Earth Day Film and Family Fun (free)
Enjoy a screening and discussion of The Nature of Things documentary, Ice and Fire. Participate in eco-inspired games, arts and crafts, featuring the innovative and award-winning Ice Dragons youth team. There will be free popcorn (bring your own container), refreshments, prizes and more at Central Library, second floor, 2 to 4 p.m. (drop-in event; no registration required).
April 22 to May 20 — Healthy Yards Plant and Garden Sale
Richmond Hill residents can pre-order native trees, shrubs, perennial wildflower kits, rain barrels and/or composters at a low cost. The online store opens at 8:30 a.m. April 22. The sale runs until May 20 or while supplies last. Note that items sell out fast.
For more information and to register for workshops and events, visit RichmondHill.ca/EarthMonth.
