LAC LA BICHE - Environment Week in Lac La Biche County kicked off on Sunday, June 2 with a launch party that was held in McArthur Park from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. The event featured environment-themed games and activities, a free lunch, as well as musical entertainment by Plamondon-based country duo Dusty Roads.
A handful of organizations from around the region including-Lakeland Industry and Community Association (LICA) Environmental Stewards and the Athabasca Watershed Council-were also on hand to educate people about local environmental issues and provide information about the work they do.
Youngsters who attended the event received passports which were stamped as they walked around visiting tables, playing games, and receiving small toys and other giveaways. Once all the stamps on their sheets had been filled, they were given free ice cream.
On Tuesday, June 4, there was a workshop held at McArthur Place teaching people about backyard composting. On June 6, Alberta Parks held a workshop with Lakeland Industry and Community Association (LICA)-Environmental Stewards on bird identification.
Environment Week Lac La Biche wrapped up June 8, with a Hazardous Waste Round-Up and Community Shredding event. The round-up takes place every year and allows residents to dispose of toxic, flammable as well as corrosive items such as household cleaners in a safe manner. The round-up took place at the County Centre from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. where a secure shredder was available to give people an opportunity to recycle confidential papers.
Environment Week coincides with World Environment Day, which this year was celebrated on June 5.
This global day for environmental action was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1972. Each year, World Environment Day focuses on a different theme and is hosted by a different country, with Saudi Arabia playing host for 2024. The focus of World Environment this year is on land restoration, desertification, and drought resilience.