Earth Day with Arizona State Parks Rangers!

This episode is in celebration of Earth Day! Earth Day is an annual, global event on April 22 that has been going strong for 53 years after it was first created in 1970 to draw attention to environmental protection.

To discuss Earth Day and better understand how we can all do our part to protect Arizona's natural resources and beautiful outdoor spaces, we’ve invited four state park rangers from across Arizona to join us on the show: Ranger Ethan from Oracle State Park, Rangers Kyle and Jess from Kartchner Caverns State Park, and Ranger Sara from Lost Dutchman State Park.

We mention some resources on the show, so be sure to check out our fire safety and restrictions online resource, as mentioned by Ranger Sara; the International Dark Sky Association website and our episode with IDA ambassador Mike Weasner, as referenced by Ranger Ethan; and cave tour reservations as recommended by Rangers Jess and Kyle.

After listening, we hope you’re excited to take action with these simple steps towards becoming a more engaged environmentalist…and even join us for a fun Earth Day celebration at one of Arizona’s state parks, listed below (click on each link for event dates, times, and other details).

Dead Horse Ranch State Park: Make Native Seed Balls and the Verde Valley Birding and Nature FestivalKartchner Caverns State Park: Recyclables crafts, educational talks in the amphitheater, scavenger hunt, Star Party, and moreLost Dutchman State Park: Guided hikes, nature talks, geocaching, and litter cleanup kitsLyman Lake State Park: Arts, crafts, and kids' activitiesOracle State Park: Geology hike, snake talk, astronomy talk, music on the trail, food trucks, and Star Party

Find your next Arizona adventure and sign up for our newsletter at AZStateParks.com/Amazing, and follow @AZStateParks on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, or Twitter for even more inspiration.