Saturday: Two Environmental Events

If you've ever wanted to learn more about Arlington's environment, this Saturday gives you two chances to get involved!

Saturday from 9am to noon at Thrifton Hill Park, Arlingtonians for a Clean environment will host a tree planting. Trees purify the air of pollutants, remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, decrease watershed runoff, serve as buffers for sources of fresh water, provide shade, offer habitat for animals, and beautify the landscape. Plus, if you're taking part in the ACE Green Living Challenge, participating in this event will earn you the five points for planting a tree! You can find out more about the event and sign up through the ACE website.

Then from 1-3pm, Arlington County Board Chair Paul Ferguson will be among the speakers at a rally urging Congress to take action to stop global warming. It's called Step It Up 2007: Creating a Climate of Change, and it will take place at Gateway Park, at the corner of Lee Highway and Fort Myer Drive, a short walk from the Rosslyn Metro station. NBC4's Wendy Rieger, Sierra Club President Lisa Renstrom, DC Council Member Phil Mendelson, and your humble blogger The Green Miles are also set to speak. Learn more and RSVP at the Step It Up website!