MISSION STATEMENT

The mission of Shoals Earth Month Incorporated is to provide and support educational opportunities for individuals, families, local governments, schools, businesses, and organizations to enhance understanding of the importance and interconnectedness of all natural systems and to celebrate the beauty, bio-diversity, and abundance of life on Earth.

As a response to continued environmental degradation, Senator Gaylord Nelson proclaimed the first Earth Day on April 22, 1970. Communities around the nation and world have since used this occasion to promote environmental awareness and advocacy. For over forty years the Shoals has joined forces with others promoting eco-friendly practices. In April of 2008, "Earth Month in the Shoals" became an official community-wide, month-long celebration with events appealing to all ages and diverse groups.

We are blessed to live in such a biologically diverse area nestled in Northwest Alabama where eagles fly and stretches of natural landscapes wind along the beautiful Tennessee River. People traveling here for the first time are truly amazed by the natural beauty of our area that some here take for granted. The Shoals has an unusually rich natural and cultural heritage which gives cause for celebration and challenges us to be responsible stewards of this beautiful area.

The preservation of our natural assets for this and future generations requires a strong, informed, community commitment. During April, there are many varied educational events and fun, family -oriented activities offered, many of which are free such as birding outings, wildflower hikes, nature walks, story-times, eco-themed symposia, renewable energy displays, recycling opportunities, tours of renewable energy facilities, solar homes and revitalized historic buildings, movie screenings, wild flower planting, local food /organic /vegetarian cooking demonstrations, and more.

The highlight of Earth Month in the Shoals, The Sixth Annual Shoals Earth Day Fest is a free, public event which has drawn thousands from our area and beyond. The Sixth Annual Shoals Earth Day Fest will be held on Saturday, April 13, 2013 from 10 am until 5 pm, Wilson Park in beautiful, historic downtown Florence, Rain location is First United Methodist Church, Seminary Street, Florence. The fest will have numerous eco-friendly displays, live music, children’s activities, local city government departments, vendors including artists, artisans and crafts persons and much more! Entertainment for the entire family will be provided by the Rockin' Eco Hero, Steve Trash as he performs his Street Magic Show. More details to follow.

Local non-profits will be lined up to sell their " junk and treasures" at the "Reduce, Reuse, Recycle Rummage Sale" which is now a popular component of the Shoals Earth Day Fest. This is open to local nonprofits as a fundraiser at no cost.

As we celebrate the 43nd anniversary of Earth Day, we invite you to become a member of Shoals Earth Month, Incorporated, or consider becoming a much appreciated sponsor. The month of April is a perfect time to get out of the house with family and friends and explore all the natural treasures that make the Shoals area one of the best places to live and visit. Please see the information on this site as community -wide events will continue to be added, save the dates, and make your plans to join us and celebrate Earth Month in the Shoals!

Sincerely,

Nancy Muse, President

Jackie Posey, Vice President

Shoals Earth Month, Incorporated