Dutchess County to Host 2025 Earth Day Event
Community invited to a day of family-friendly fun and learning in Poughkeepsie

POUGHKEEPSIE … The Dutchess County Division of Solid Waste and the Environmental Cooperative at the Vassar Barns will host Dutchess County’s annual Earth Day celebration on Saturday, April 26, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Environmental Cooperative at the Vassar Barns, 50 Vassar Farm Lane in Poughkeepsie. This free event will feature environmental education, hands-on activities and community engagement to increase awareness of environmental issues and encourage efforts to safeguard the planet.

Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino highlighted the value of coming together to care for the environment, saying, “Earth Day is a great reminder that even the smallest steps can lead to big change. Whether you’ve just started to learn about sustainability, or already doing your part, this event has something for everyone. I hope folks of all ages will join us and leave feeling inspired to help protect our planet – not just today, but every day.”

Dutchess County’s Earth Day event highlights sustainability and environmental responsibility, inviting residents of all ages to explore ways to reduce waste, conserve resources and protect the planet for future generations.

Attendees can look forward to a range of activities, including:

• Family-friendly activities, such as nature journaling and making seed balls;
• Interactive displays on composting, recycling, and waste reduction;
• Exhibits on sustainability initiatives, including organic waste management, electric vehicles, and energy conservation;
• Information on ecosystems, pollinators, invasive species and local wildlife;
• Guided nature walks of the Preserve at Vassar;
• Representatives from local environmental groups, businesses and government agencies

A full list of event participants is available online.

Kerry Russell, Deputy Commissioner of the County’s Division of Solid Waste Management, underscored the event’s significance, stating, “By coming together as a community we can learn the importance of living more sustainably and the positive impact it can have for all of us. This event brings together local organizations who are working to preserve our environment and who are eager to share their knowledge.”

In 2024, Dutchess County achieved New York’s highest Climate Smart Communities Silver Certification, showcasing the County’s dedication to environmental sustainability and resilience. For more details on Dutchess County’s continued environmental initiatives and sustainability efforts, recycling education, home composting and more, visit the Division of Solid Waste Management’s webpage.