BISMARCK — Gov. Kelly Armstrong has proclaimed Wednesday, April 22, as Earth Day in North Dakota. Earth Day provides an opportunity for all North Dakotans to raise awareness of the state’s natural resources and take personal action to help preserve and conserve them for future generations.

“Protecting and preserving our state’s natural resources is important to the citizens of North Dakota,” Diana Trussell, manager of the North Dakota Department of Environmental Quality’s Solid Waste Program, said. “Earth Day gives North Dakotans a chance to embrace conservation habits that will contribute to a cleaner, safer and healthier environment for present and future generations.”

Simple ways citizens can celebrate Earth Day every day include recycling, using public transportation or carpooling, turning off lights when leaving a room, planting trees, and utilizing renewable resources when possible.

Earth Day also serves as a reminder of the progress already being made across the state. For example, North Dakota communities, on average, recycle more than 3,200 tons per month, totaling over 38,000 tons each year.

Organizations supporting Earth Day include N.D. Department of Environmental Quality, N.D. Solid Waste and Recycling Association, Bis-Man Earth Day Festival and Keep N.D. Clean.