Earth Month and Earth Day
explore responsibly, give back, support local businesses
April is Earth Month and April 22nd is Earth Day, a time to reflect on our relationship with our planet and recommit to protecting the natural beauty that surrounds us. In Cayuga County, we’re lucky to be surrounded by pristine lakes, rolling farmland, and vibrant small businesses that care deeply about sustainability. This year the theme is Our Power, Our Planet. This theme emphasizes the power of communities and individuals to drive change, protect environmental laws, and demand clean energy.
This Earth Month and Earth Day, we invite you to explore responsibly, give back, and support local businesses making a difference. Below are 4 easy ways to participate:
1. Explore Responsibly with Leave No Trace
Whether you’re hiking in Fillmore Glen, kayaking on Owasco Lake, or enjoying a peaceful walk-through Sterling Nature Center, following the Leave No Trace principles help keep these places beautiful for generations to come.
Quick Tips:
- Pack out what you pack in
- Stick to marked trails
- Respect wildlife
- Leave what you find
Let’s be mindful stewards of the land as we enjoy everything Cayuga County has to offer.
2. Get Involved: Local Earth Month Cleanup Days
This month, there are several opportunities to roll up your sleeves and pitch in:
- Canal Clean Sweep
- I Love My Park Day
- Village & Town Beautification Days – Check with your local municipality for dates and details.
- Owasco River Clean-Up
- Sterling Nature Center- Beach Clean-Up
- Spring Garden Prep at Seymour Library
Participating is a great way to meet others who care and make a visible impact in your community.
3. Easy Ways to be Sustainable Every Day
Sustainability doesn’t have to be complicated—here are simple ways to make a difference:
- Buy local produce and goods to reduce your carbon footprint. Choose local food and goods to support nearby producers and cut down on emissions
- Compost food scraps or start a garden
- Support businesses with eco-friendly practices
- Switch to LED bulbs and smart thermostats
- Drive less or carpool when possible
- Reduce single-use plastics—bring your own bags, bottles, and containers
4. Support Local: Local Leaders in Sustainability
We’re proud to highlight Cayuga County businesses putting sustainability into action:
- Reuse Refuge: A zero-waste shop offering alternatives to single-use plastics—refill soaps, cleaners, and more.
- Regenerations: A vintage and upcycled shop promoting reuse and reducing waste through thoughtfully curated fashion and home goods.
- Local Wineries & Farms: Many of our wineries use sustainable growing practices, including Treleaven Wines and Bright Leaf Winery, and many area farms such as Cayuga Pumpkin Barn/Staehr Family Farm follow regenerative agriculture models that restore the land.
- Shop second hand stores, repurpose and reuse whenever possible. Cayuga has many vintage and second hand stores to explore.
By supporting these businesses, you’re investing in a greener future and helping our local economy thrive.
In Closing…
This Earth Month, let’s celebrate not just by enjoying nature—but by protecting it. Whether you’re cleaning up a trail, shopping sustainably, or simply taking a walk and appreciating the beauty around you, every small action adds up.
Together, we can keep Cayuga County vibrant and beautiful for generations to come.