ONGOING EVENTS
Telescope viewing | Chamberlin Observatory, 2930 E. Warren Ave., on the University of Denver campus, has astronomy presentations and allows use of the 20-inch Alvan Clark refractor telescope beginning at 8 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. Info: , or call 303-871-5172 for reservations.
Mining club | The Denver Mining Club is a free (except for purchase of lunch) weekly meeting each Monday except on holidays with a mining-related speaker. Meetings begin at 11:30 a.m. at the Country Buffet Restaurant, 8100 W. Crestline Ave., Littleton. Purchase of buffet lunch is required.
River table | Visit South Suburban Parks and Recreation’s Carson Nature Center in South Platte Park, 3000 W. Carson Drive, the first Saturday of each month and manipulate a river in the 12-foot stainless steel river table. The table is filled with plastic sand and recirculating water powered by pumps that can be controlled by participants. Visitors can create a city landscape and see how natural river actions affect their creation. Naturalists are on hand from 2 to 3 p.m. the first Saturday of each month to guide individuals and families through the free, hands-on experience. Info: 303-730-1022 or .
Science open house | The Morrison Nature Center at Star K Ranch, 16002 E. Smith Road, offers a free open house with hands-on science activities from 1 p.m. on the third Sunday of the month. Register: 303-739-2428.
The National Center for Atmospheric Research | NCAR’s Mesa Lab, a working research laboratory at the west end of Table Mesa Drive in Boulder, has a free visitor center that is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays, and from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekends. The visitor center has a climate exhibit, an eclipse telescope, working supercomputers, a gravity well, and hands on demonstrations of lightning, tornados and fluid dynamics. Info: 303-497-1174 or .
Renewable energy | The U.S. Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory Visitors Center, 15013 Denver West Parkway, Golden, is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. The Visitors Center features an interactive exhibit hall and DOE public reading room. Info: or 303-384-6565.
Kids nature programs | Roxborough State Park, 4751 N. Roxborough Drive, Littleton, offers a “kids hour” with activities, stories and/or short nature hikes. Programs vary depending on kids ages and are scheduled at 10:30 a.m. on April 6, 13, 20 and 27; May 4, 11, 18 and 25; and June 1, 8, 15, 22, and 29. A $6 daily State Parks pass is required for all vehicles entering the park. Register: 303-973-3959.
Nature/arts seminars | Rocky Mountain Nature Association offers field-based, hands-on seminars in Rocky Mountain National Park. Seminar topics include: wildflowers, mammals, birds, cultural history, outdoor skills, photography, painting and writing. Info/register: call the Field Smeminar Center at 970-586-3262.
Kids nature programs | The Nature and Raptor Center of Pueblo, 5200 Nature Center Road, has several free programs for kids the second and third Fridays of the month now through the end of may. On the second Friday of each month, there is a “Knee High Nature Hour” program for children ages 2-3 from 10 to 11 a.m. where a parent/guardian will explore nature with their toddler through music, crafts and games. On the third Friday of the month there is a “Raptor Tales Story Series,” program for kids ages 3-5 years old from 10 to 11 a.m. The program includes nature-themed stories, outdoor exploration and activities. The programs are free; there is a $3 parking fee. Space is limited and pre-registration is required. Info/register: 719-549-2414 or visit .
Nature/science programs | The Fort Collins Museum & Discovery Science Center, 200 Matthews St., Fort Collins, has many activities, programs and events for children and adults, ranging from lectures to stargazing to hands-on science labs. Also, the Museum offers free admission every third Sunday of the month. Info: or 970-221-6738.
Children’s nature/science programs | The Children’s Museum of Denver, 2121 Children’s Museum Drive, has several science and nature activities for kids. Super Science Sundays at 3 p.m. on Sundays gives children a chance to try their hand at chemistry by mixing up and engineering their own toothpaste. Bubble Brigade at 11 a.m. on Sundays teaches kids about pressure with an explosive science experiment. Info: 303-433-7444 or .
Children’s workshops| The Denver Museum of Nature & Science, 2001 Colorado Blvd., has many children’s workshops and events for children in kindergarten through sixth grade. For a list, call the Children’s Workshop coordinators at 303-370-8225 or 303-370-8347.
Nature programs | The Starsmore Discovery Center, at the entrance of North Cheyenne Canon at 2120 S. Cheyenne Road, has guided “wildlife tracks and signs” walks at 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays on the Columbine Trail. Info: 719-385-6086.
Kids nature programs | Morrison Nature Center at Star K Ranch, 16002 E. Smith Road, Aurora, offers a free program for kids ages 5 and under every Thursday at 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. with puppets, stories, activities and outdoor exploration. Info: 303-739-2428 or .
Nature activities | South Suburban Parks and Recreation naturalists lead many outdoor, nature and environmentally related activities and events at Carson Nature Center, 3000 W. Carson Drive, Littleton. For a list of events, visit or call 303-730-1022.
Nocturnal nature program | “Nature at Night,” a free program, is at 6:30 p.m. the third Friday of each month at Morrison Nature Center at Star K Ranch, 16002 E. Smith Road, Aurora. Info/register: 303-739-2428.
Nature programs | The Morrison Nature Center at Star K Ranch, 16002 E. Smith Road, Aurora, offers a variety of nature programs for children and adults. For a list of events, call 303-739-2428 or visit .
Nature presentations | Garden of the Gods Park offers free daily nature presentations. For times and presentation topics, check the information kiosk at the Garden of the Gods Visitor and Nature Center, 1805 N. 30th St., Colorado Springs. Info: 719-634-6666.
Wildlife refuge programs | The Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge, East 56th Avenue at Havana Street, is open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. There are various exhibits at the Visitor Center, and free nature programs and refuge tours. Info: 303-289-0930 for times and reservations, or visit .
Natural history seminars | The Rocky Mountain Nature Association offers a series of outdoor seminars on natural history topics in Rocky Mountain National Park. Info: 970-586-3262 or .
Astronomy events | Fiske Planetarium, on the University of Colorado Boulder campus, has a variety of astronomy shows, talks, and family matinees. The evening talks and shows are $6 adults, $5 students with valid I.D., and $3.50 for children and seniors. Saturday family shows are $5 adults, $3.50 children and seniors. Laser shows are $5. Info: 303-492-5002 or .
Public viewing at observatory | The Sommers-Bausch Observatory on the University of Colorado Boulder campus is open to the public for stargazing (weather permitting) every Friday at 8 p.m. Info: 303-492-6732 or .
Junior naturalist program | Roxborough State Park, 4751 N. Roxborough Drive, Littleton, offers a “junior naturalist” program for children. Kids can earn a Certificate of Completion or continue on for an official Junior Naturalist Patch. Two hikes are required for completion. Kids will use their artistic skills and gain knowledge of the outdoors in this program. Ask the Visitor Center for details. A $6 daily State Parks pass is required for all vehicles entering the park. Register: 303-973-3959.
Junior rangers program | The Morrison Nature Center at Star K Ranch, 16002 E. Smith Road, Aurora, offers a free junior rangers program for kids ages 6-12 at 1:30 p.m. on the second Sunday of each month. For information or to register, call 303-739-2428.
Self-guided junior ranger program | North Cheyenne Canon Park, is offering a self-guided junior ranger program. Young rangers between the ages of 8 and 12 can earn “Steward Level” badges using Junior Ranger booklets which may be picked up from either the Starsmore Discovery Center, at the entrance of North Cheyenne Canon, 2120 S. Cheyenne Road, (9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday) or at the Helen Hunt Falls Visitor Center, 4075 N. Cheyenne Canon Road,(9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Sundays). Young Rangers receive a booklet, pencil, patch and certificate of completion. Cost is $5 per person. Info: 719-385-6086 or .
Junior ranger activity | Colorado National Monument in Fruita is unveiling a new Junior Ranger activity booklet for kids ages 5-12. The booklet is available at the CNM Visitor Center. Once kids have completed the required activities (usually takes 1 1/2 to 2 hours to complete), they can return to the visitor center where a park ranger reviews their work and awards them an official Junior Ranger badge and certificate. Info: 970-858-3617 or .
Kids nature program | “Animal Art and Awesome Activities,” an animal-related art and activity program for kids ages 6-10, is from 10 a.m. to noon on the second Saturday of each month at the Majestic View Nature Center, 7030 Garrison St., Arvada. Cost is $10/class. Register: 720-898-7405.
Nature activities | Curecanti National Recreation Area, between Montrose and Gunnison on Highway 50, offers two free programs: “Saturday Night Sky Programs,” featuring astronomy when the moon is small and moonlight hikes at the Dillon Pinnacles when the moon is full or nearly so; and “Junior Ranger” programs for kids every Friday from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at the Elk Creek Visitor Center. Info: 970-641-2337, ext. 205.
Kids nature program | “Nature Adventures,” a free parent/child program for kids ages 4-6 and parents, is at 11 a.m. on the third Saturday of each month at the Majestic View Nature Center, 7030 Garrison St., Arvada. The program includes stories and nature activities, crafts, short hikes and games. Register: 720-898-7405.
Mineral group | The Rocky Mountain Micromineral Association, a new mineral group, will meet from 2 to 4 p.m. the second Sunday of each month at the Colorado School of Mines Museum. The group is informal, with no dues, officers or newsletter. Microscopes and free microminerals are available at the meetings. Info: contact Richard Parsons, 303-838-8859 or Richard.parsons@att.net.
Self-guided homestead tours | Castlewood Canyon State Park, 2989 S. Highway 83, Franktown, has a new one-fourth-mile trail and self-guided booklet that takes visitors on a tour of Park’s old homestead and its out-buildings. The trail booklet is available at the homestead and the Visitor Center. Info: 303-688-5242.
GPS, map and compass class | On the second Friday of selected months (subject to staff availability) starting Jan. 8, there are free USGS GPS, Map and compass classes at Building 810, Federal Center, Lakewood. Class schedule is: Map and Compass from 9 to 11:30 a.m. and GPS from 12:30 to 5 p.m. Info/register: 303-202-4689 or e-mail gpsworkshops@usgs.gov, or visit .
Roxborough Ride | Naturalist-guided tours in a seven-passenger golf cart around the Fountain Valley Trail are offered at 11 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays in Roxborough State Park, 4751 N. Roxborough Drive, Littleton. Mother’s Day and Father’s Day rides are at 11 a.m. on May 9 and June 20. A Memorial Day ride is at 11 a.m. May 30. A $6 daily State Parks pass is required for all vehicles entering the park. Reservations are required for the rides; donations are accepted for vehicle maintenance. Register: 303-973-3959.
Guided walks | Garden of the Gods Park, 1805 N. 30th St., Colorado Springs, offers free daily guided walks at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Meet at the north main parking lot trail head. Take water, and wear sturdy shoes and a jacket. Info: 719-634-6666.
Free Park entrance | Mesa Verde National Park is offering free entrance to the Park through the end of April to celebrate National Park Week and the 40th anniversary of Earth Day. Info: 970-529-4465.
TODAY
Earth Day geology/nature hike | USGS geologist Pete Modreski is leading a geology/nature hike on Green Mountain in Lakewood. Meet at 9 a.m. at the Alameda Parkway trailhead (opposite of West Florida Drive, about 1.7 miles west of Union Boulevard). The alternate date in case of inclement weather will be April 25. Take water, dress appropriately for the weather, and be prepared for an approximately 4-mile round trip hike, climbing and descending about 600 feet to the summit and return. Info/register: 303-202-4766 or e-mail pmodreski@usgs.gov.
Earth Day events/free admission at Museum | The Denver Museum of Nature & Science, 2001 Colorado Blvd., is offering free general admission for Colorado residents and special Earth Day activities all day. Also, admission to the BODY WORLDS exhibit will be discounted. Earth Day programming includes activities focused on global climate and how to save energy. Participants can take a virtual tour of the Museum’s rooftop solar panels, get tips on xeriscaping and green thumb gardening, see a wind turbine and more. Info: .
Guided bird walk | Naturalist Doris Cruze will lead a bird walk at 8 a.m. in Roxborough State Park, 4751 N. Roxborough Drive, Littleton. A $6 daily State Parks pass is required for all vehicles entering the park. Take binoculars, a bird book and drinking water; dress for the weather. Info: 303-973-3959.
Raptor talk | “Weekend Raptor Talk,” a free program offering a glimpse inside the lives of resident raptors, will be at 1 p.m. at the Nature and Raptor Center of Pueblo, 5200 Nature Center Road. Info: 719-549-2414.
MONDAY
Earth day activities | The National Renewable Energy Laboratory Visitors Center, 15013 Denver West Parkway, Golden, is having a celebration of the 40th anniversary of Earth day with activities April 19-23. Several events are planned including a “Power Lunch” on April 21. For a list of events, or to download a map and directions, go to .
Environmental film screening | “What’s On Your Plate?” a documentary covering two eleven-year-old multi-racial city kids as they explore their place in the food chain, will be shown at 6 p.m. at Denver Public Library, 10 W. 14th St. Info: 720-865-1472.
Earth day activities | Bryant Webster School, 3635 Quiva St., Denver, is having an “EcoDay” to plant trees and celebrate Earth Day from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. The students will help plant five trees on the school campus and they will rotate through “EcoStations” too learn about the environment, tree care, gardening and more.
Earth Week event – gardening-related | “Ask a Gardener,” a free program with Jefferson County master gardeners providing information on low-water gardens, how to grow vegetables, and how to care for trees and shrubs, will be at noon at the Lakewood Cultural Center, 470 S. Allison Pkwy. Take a sack lunch if desired. Info: or 303-987-7431.
Arbor Day activities | Boulder has been named “Tree City U.S.A.” for the 26th consecutive year by the National Arbor Day Foundation. The city’s Parks and Recreation Department Urban Forestry unit will celebrate the Arbor Day season with a children’s art exhibit and tree plantings planned for April 19 through May 30.
The Arbor Day children’s art exhibit will be on display April 19-30 in the Marcelee Gralapp Children’s Library in Main Boulder Public Library, 1001 Arapahoe Ave. The artwork was created by fourth and fifth grade students from Kara Priest’s class at Horizons K-8 Elementary School. Library hours are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday; and noon to 6 p.m. Sunday.
In cooperation with the city’s Urban Forestry unit and Water Conservation office, the Center for Resource Conservation is offering the “Trees Across Boulder” online tree sale. Learn more and order a tree at .
For information on Arbor Day events, contact Shelly Ruspakka, Parks and Recreation, at 303-413-7214.
TUESDAY
Photo presentation | “Hiding in Plain Sight – The Best Photo Locales You Have Never Seen,” a free presentation by Paul deBerjeois, will be at noon at the Garden of the Gods Visitor and Nature Center, 1805 N. 30th St., Colorado Springs. Register/info: 719-219-0108.
Earth Week program about bees | “Beneficial Bees,” a free, family-friendly program, will be at 5:30 p.m. at Lakewood’s Heritage Center, 801 S. Yarrow St. There will be a presentation, interactive stations, and free ice cream from Lakewood’s historical White Way Grill. Any donations will go to support Wild Wings Environmental Education. Info: or 303-987-7431.
Artist/anatomy event at museum | The Denver Museum of Nature & Science, 2001 Colorado Blvd., is offering a sketch night event for artists from 6 to 9:30 p.m. in the BODY WORLDS and The Story of the Heart exhibit area. Take a sketch pad and suitable media (no easels or liquid media are permitted). Cost is $25.50 adults, $16 student, $19 seniors. Info/register: 303-322-7009 or visit .
Human/animal ethics seminar | “Animals Matter: Perspectives in Conservation Social Work and Human-Animal Ethics,” a seminar with internationally renowned researchers, scholars and educators, will be from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Craig Hall on the University of Denver campus, 2148 High St. The event includes a personalized video greeting from anthropologist Jane Goodall, a vegetarian lunch and an expo highlighting environmentally-focused organizations. Speakers include: Josphat Ngonyo, executive director of the African Network for Animal Welfare; Marc Bekoff, an animal behavior researcher and author who also serves as an ambassador for Goodall’s Roots and Shoots program; Sarah M. Bexell, director of Conservation Education and Communications at China’s Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding; and Ray Powell, regional director of the Roots and Shoots program in the Four Corners region of southern Colorado. Info/registration: visit and click on “Upcoming Events.”
John Fielder lecture and book signing | Join John Fielder, nature photographer, publisher, teacher and preservationist for an exhibition of his work over the past 40 years featuring the state of Colorado at 7 p.m. at The Denver Museum of Nature & Science, 2001 Colorado Blvd. Fielder will provide commentary on what has been protected and lost, and what the future holds for the Rocky Mountain state. Cost is $8 members, $10 nonmembers. Info/register: 303-322-7009 or visit .
“Earth Week” film screening event | “The Age of Stupid,” a film starring a man living alone in the devastated future world of 2055, looking at old footage from 2008 and asking: “Why didn’t we stop climate change when we had the chance?” will be shown at 8 p.m. at Colorado College, Screening Room, Edith Kinney Gaylord Cornerstone Arts Center, 825 N. Cascade Ave., Colorado Springs. The free event is part of “Earth Week” events at Colorado College and is sponsored by EnAct, the CC student environmental group. Info: or 719-389-6607.
Nature/art class | Naturalist Phyllis Vandehaar will lead several classes teaching participants how to capture the beauty of Roxborough’s buildings, landscape and foliage using a variety of techniques. The first class will focus on “Design and Composition,” and will be from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Roxborough State Park, 4751 N. Roxborough Drive, Littleton. Age restrictions do apply for each class. A $6 daily State Parks pass is required for all vehicles entering the park. To register and for a materials list, call 303-973-3959.
Rockies history/mapping talk | Author Ralph Ehrenberg from the Library of Congress will give a free talk describing the extent of geographical knowledge of the Rockies and the trans-Mississippi West on the eve of the Lewis and Clark expedition; the cartographic contributions of Indians, fur trappers and the German explorer Alexander von Humboldt; and William Clark’s composite 1814 map of the American West. The talk, presented by the Rocky Mountain Map Society and the Western History and Genealogy Department of the Denver Public Library, will be at 5:30 p.m. in the Denver Public Library, Gates Conference Room, Fifth Floor, 10 E. 14th Ave. Info: .
Teen Earth Day event | An “Earth Day Zoo” event will be at 6:30 p.m. at Parker Library, 10851 S Crossroads Drive. Teens can create animal sculptures from found and repurposed materials (which will be provided). Also, teens can have a discussion with Roberta Rogalski from the Town of Parker. Rogalski will encourage teens to “think outside the box when recycling and adopting other green practices.” Register: 303-791-7323. Info: .
WEDNESDAY
Colorado River/Cenozoic history talk | “Origin of the Colorado River and the Late Cenozoic History of the Upper Colorado Basin,” a talk by Andres Aslan, Mesa College, Grand Junction, will be at 4 p.m. at Benson Earth Sciences lecture hall (380) on the CU Boulder campus. Info: .
“Earth Week” film screening event | “The Cove,” an Academy Award-winning documentary, follows a team of environmental activists and filmmakers as they embark on a covert mission to penetrate a large dolphin captivity program in Japan, where approximately 23,000 dolphins are being killed each year, will be shown at 8 p.m. at Colorado College, Screening Room, Edith Kinney Gaylord Cornerstone Arts Center, 825 N. Cascade Ave., Colorado Springs. The screening will be preceded by an introduction by Marion Hourdequin, assistant professor of philosophy and instructor in environmental ethics at Colorado College. The free event is part of “Earth Week” events at Colorado College and is sponsored by EnAct, the CC student environmental group. Info: or 719-389-6607.
Earth Week event, gardening-related | “Xeriscape Magic,” a program by Lakewood’s Greenhouse staff members, will be from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Kendrick Lake Park, 9351 W. Jewell Ave. Take a lunch if desired. Pollinator posters will be given away along with pollinator wheels showing how to attract bees and butterflies. Info: or 303-987-7431.
Earth Day event | “Party for the Planet – Youth Summit,” an Earth Day event, will be from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 21 and 22 at The Denver Zoo, 2300 Steele St. In partnership with Front Range Earth Force and local schools, area students will demonstrate what they’re doing in their own backyards to save the planet and celebrate the positive impact they have on their environment through conservation project booths and “speak out” skits with an environmental message. The event is free with paid admission to the Zoo. Info: 303-376-4800 or at .
THURSDAY
Earth Day fair | The City and County of Denver is hosting a free Earth Day Fair from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the west lawn of Civic Center Park (weather permitting). There will be activities for kids accompanying their parents on “take your child to work” day and Earth-friendly table exhibits and displays by various non-profit organizations, private companies and City agencies. Info: .
Earth Day expo | A “Down to Earth Expo” will be from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Lakewood’s Civic Center Plaza, 480 S. Allison Pkwy. There will be live music, informational lectures, demonstrations and exhibitors from local “green” businesses and nonprofits showing how to incorporate sustainable practices into daily activities. Take a canned food or pet food donation to support a local food bank or pet shelter and receive a biodegradable pot with planted seeds. Info: or 303-987-7431.
Tree/wildflower seed giveaway | A “Tree and Wildflower Seed Giveaway,” by Lakewood’s Urban Parks Division, will be from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Whole Foods Market in Belmar, 444 S. Wadsworth Blvd., Whole Foods will donate 5% or the day’s store sales to Lakewood’s Surfside facility. Info: or 303-987-7431.
Earth Day display | Tallulah Jones, 1122 E. 17th Ave., Denver, has an Earth Day display set up. The display emphasizes educating children in both being green and loving nature. They are also offering an Earth Day special: if you take in a reusable bag, you can receive 10% off of your whole purchase. Info: 303-832-1230.
Earth Day concert | “Earth Day-Ja Vu,” a dance concert featuring Dan Rose, Seismic Shift and Friends, will be from 7:30 to 11 p.m. at the Nederland Community Center, 750 N. Hwy. 72. Doors open at 7 p.m. Cost is $15; proceeds benefit Carousel of Happiness. Info: contact Janette Taylor at 303-258-3586 or e-mail janette.taylor@forethought.net.
Earth Day/environmental film screening | “Food, Inc.” a film by Robert Kenner exploring our nation’s food industry and the “highly mechanized underbelly that has been hidden from the American consumer with the consent of our government’s regulatory agencies, USDA and FDA,” will be shown at 7 and 9 p.m. at the Mayan Theater, 110 N. Broadway. Tickets are free. Info: 303-744-6883.
Car battery recycling opportunity | AAA Colorado is supporting Earth Day by sponsoring a car battery recycling effort. From April 22 through April 24, consumers can take used car batteries to Grease Monkey, 7181 N. Pecos St., Denver or to Mike’s Conoco, 4880 Federal Blvd., Denver. A battery pick-up service is also offered for Denver metro residents. Call 303-753-8800, ext. 8196 to schedule battery pick-up from your home or business. A complete list of AAA Colorado Great Battery Round-up sites throughout Colorado can be found at .
Whale lecture and book signing | Captain Paul Watson, star of Animal Planet’s show “Whale Wars,” will give a free lecture on the importance of saving the ecosystem as it supports the planet at 6 p.m. at Colorado College, Armstrong Theater, inside Armstrong Hall, 14 E. Cache La Poudre St., Colorado Springs. A book signing will take place prior to the lecture; Watson will sign copies of “Earth Force” and “Seal Wars” from 5 to 5:45 p.m. in Armstrong Hall. Info: or 719-389-6607.
Live astronomy talk | “Colorado Skies: Celestial Navigation,” a live astronomy program, will be at 7:30 p.m. at Fiske Planetarium on the University of Colorado Boulder campus. Cost is $6 adults, free for students with valid ID, $3.50 child/senior. Info: 303-492-5001, e-mail fiske@colorado.edu or visit .
Denver Botanic Gardens free day | Denver Botanic Gardens, 1005 York St., is offering free admission to Colorado residents beginning at 9 a.m. Info: or 720-865-3500.
Earth Day “lunch and learn” event | “Eating for the Environment,” a lunch-time presentation, will be from 12:11 to 12:49 p.m. at the Colorado Springs City Administration Building, 30 S. Nevada, Ste. 102. In honor of Earth Day, attendees will get samples of earth-friendly foods and information to take with them. Take a sack lunch to enjoy during the presentation if desired. Attendees will also have the opportunity to win a door prize tote bag made from recycled City banners. Info: contact City of Colorado Spring Sustainability Coordinator Carrie McCausland, 719-385-2746 or cmccausland@springsgov.com.
Earth Day electronics recycling event | The Associated Students of Aims Community College in partnership with Schaefer Enterprises will sponsor an “E-Cycle” event from 9 a.m. to noon at the Greeley campus in the General Services parking lot, 5401 W. 20th St. Aims students, employees and Greeley residents are invited to drop-off the following electronic items for recycling: computers, televisions, electronics, cellphones, batteries and old diskettes. Greeley residents must show proof of residency at the drop-off site. Info: contact Student Vice President of Campus Life Trev Starr at 970-339-6225.
Birding program | “Birding 101,” a program that “helps people to recognize the birds they see through appearance, behavior and song,” will be at 7 p.m. at the Colorado Mountain Club, 710 10th St., Golden. Tickets are $10 ($3 for CMC or Rocky Mountain Bird Observatory members) and are available at .
FRIDAY
Live astronomy talk | “City of Stars,” a live astronomy program, will be at 7:30 p.m. at Fiske Planetarium on the University of Colorado Boulder campus. Cost is $6 adults, $5 for students with valid ID, $3.50 child/senior. Info: 303-492-5001, e-mail fiske@colorado.edu or visit .
Earth Week program on birding | Meet at 9 a.m. at Lakewood’s Heritage Center, 801 S. Yarrow St., for “Birding in Belmar Park,” a free, guided bird walk through the park. Check for space availability by calling 303-987-7420.
Renewable energy talk | “Wind to Hydrogen Demonstration Project: Results and Lessons Learned,” a talk by Kevin Harrison, National Renewable Energy Laboratory, will be at 4:30 p.m. in Olin Hall 105 on the University of Denver campus. Info: .
Mineral and fossil show | The Spring Colorado Mineral and Fossil Show will be April 23-25 at the Holiday Inn Denver Central, 4849 Bannock St. Admission and parking are free. The show features many dealers with a variety of minerals, fossils gems and jewelry. Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. April 23 and 24; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. April 25.
SATURDAY
Park clean-up event | Volunteers are needed to help with the “Spring Canon Clean Up,” from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at North Cheyenne Canon Park, 2120 S. Cheyenne Road. Info: 719-358-6086
Earth Week volunteer restoration event | Volunteers are needed to do trail work, habitat restoration and litter cleanup from 8 a.m. to noon at Bear Creek Lake Park, 15600 W. Morrison Road. Lunch will be provided, courtesy of REI, Whole Foods and Vitamin Water. Info: or 303-987-7431.
Earth Day fair | A free Earth Day fair, with interactive booths, activities, guided bird walks, information about composting and using water wisely and more, will be from 9 a.m. to noon at Morrison Nature Center at Star K Ranch, 16002 E. Smith Road, Aurora. No registration is required. Info: 303-739-2428.
Earth Day fair | An Earth Day Fair will be from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Evergreen Lake House, 29614 Upper Bear Creek Road. There will be over 50 federal, state and local agencies, nonprofit organizations and businesses presenting up-to-date information on critical issues. There are numerous activities planned for children. HawkQuest will present live raptors. There will also be speakers and presentations. Shuttle parking is available at the Wulf Recreation Center. Admission is free. Info: , 720-219-7165 or visit Earth Day & Beyond on Facebook.
Earth Day event | Pikes Peak’s Earth Day event will be from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the LEED Certified Art Center at Colorado College. The 2010 theme is “40 Years of Earth Day: ReVision – RePurpose – ReNew.” The event features green businesses, children’s activities, entertainment, environmental presentations, food, art and more. Info: .
Open house and Earth Day celebration | The Garbage Garage Education Center at the Larimer County Landfill, 5887 S. Taft Hill Road, Fort Collins, is having an open house event and Earth Day celebration from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Register: 970-498-5772 or e-mail rwatson@larimer.org.
Earth Day celebration | Naturalist Jill Parker will lead an Earth Day program at 1 p.m. in Roxborough State Park, 4751 N. Roxborough Drive, Littleton. The program explores the impacts upon the fragile “web of life” that envelops and sustains our planet. Can we “reweave” the web? Look for answers taking on the case study of the reintroduction of wolves to Yellowstone National Park. See how these predators reshaped an entire ecosystem in unforeseen ways. The study will be related to the balance at Roxborough State Park. A $6 daily State Parks pass is required for all vehicles entering the park. Info: 303-973-3959.
Wildflower hike | Naturalist Betty Timson will lead a hike on the Willow Creek Trail in search of early spring blooms at 1 p.m. in Roxborough State Park, 4751 N. Roxborough Drive, Littleton. A $6 daily State Parks pass is required for all vehicles entering the park. Register: 303-973-3959.
Astronomy Day celebration | There will be free festivities for all ages from noon to 10 p.m. at Fiske Planetarium and Sommers-Bausch Observatory on the University of Colorado Boulder campus. The event celebrates space science achievements. There will be giveaways, prizes, food, family fun, and of course, hands-on opportunities to use telescopes. Info: 303-492-5001, e-mail fiske@colorado.edu or visit .
Antarctica slideshow | Joan Myers, photographer of Wondrous Cold – Antarctic Journey, will give share her experiences in slideshow presentation at 11 a.m. and will be available in the gallery at 1 p.m. for an informal “meet and greet.” Info: 720-488-3300 or visit .
Earth Day event | Bluff Lake Nature Center, on the eastern edge of Stapleton, is hosting a “Recycling and Reusing” event from 9 a.m. to noon. Take in electronics, baby gear and more to Bluff Lake for free (or low cost) recycling. Recycled art from or inspired by the Art Students League of Denver exhibit, “Used: Mixed Media, Recycled,” will be on display. Bluff Lake educators and volunteers will work with families to assemble small compost worm bins and reused crafts. Take in the following items to be recycled: books, CDs, DVDs, video games, baby and children’s gear, small amounts of personal documents for on-site shredding, and electronics such as toasters, printers, laptops, monitors, phones, computers, televisions, etc. Info: 303-344-0031 or visit .
Family-friendly birding programs | “Birding 101,” a program designed for families, which “helps people to recognize the birds they see through appearance,” will be at 10 a.m. and noon at the Wildlife Experience, 10035 S. Peoria St., Parker. Cost is $1 in addition to the general admission fee of $6 kids (ages 3-12 years old), $10 for teens and adults (ages 13-64) and $9 seniors.
Home energy sweep | The Boulder Green Building Build needs volunteers for a 475-home energy sweep in Longmont. The door-to-door initiative provides low and moderate income households with the free installation of energy conservation measures and energy efficiency advice. There is also a home energy sweep planned for Fall of 2010. Info: 303-441-3912 or e-mail dhatchimonji@bouldercounty.org.
Earth Day neighborhood energy efficiency push | The Neighborhood Action Partnership is pooling its resources for a neighborhood energy efficiency push in the Five Points and Swansea neighborhoods. Groundwork Denver will lead collaborative partners and hundreds of volunteers on a door-to-door canvas to change Denver’s incandescent porch light bulbs to compact fluorescent light bulbs and provide residents with information on energy conservation. For info or to register to volunteer, call Reggie at 303-455-5600, e-mail reggie@groundworkdenver.org or visit .
April 25
Evening nature program | “Moon Magic,” a free program with a moon light hike, moon stories and more, will be at 7:30 p.m. at Bobcat Ridge Natural Area, off of County Road 32 C in Fort Collins. For directions and reservations, call 970-416-2815 or e-mail naturalareas@fcgov.com. Also, check the website for updates on weather cancellations: .
Earth Day celebration | Earthfest Boulder is a free community celebration featuring music, sustainable food and drink, farmers market, speakers, Dirt Days outdoor activities, an expo of green businesses and more. The event will be from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Downtown Boulder; the festival area will include Central Park, the Bandshell and the Farmer’s Market Area. Info: .
To publicize upcoming science events geared toward and open to the public, mail details at least two weeks in advance to Andrea Labak, Scientifically Speaking, The Denver Post, City Desk, 101 W. Colfax Ave., Suite 600, Denver, CO 80202, or e-mail Scispeak@denverpost.com.
