While Earth Day is officially recognized on April 22, the University of Kentucky is celebrating it during the month of April with a variety of activities promoting a cleaner environment. As part of the celebration, College of Agriculture faculty and staff will highlight projects and programs in upcoming events.

The UK College of Agriculture addresses environmental issues on a daily basis as it works to educate students and the public on ways they can improve the environment.

“We try to make sure people are aware of the issues and supporting information is available,” said Amanda Abnee Gumbert, extension water quality liaison.

One of the events will feature Patricia Meads, Woodford County horticulture extension agent, who will present a workshop that explores home worm composting and building worm compost bins. The workshop is at 6 p.m. April 16 at The Arboretum’s visitor center.

Jamie Dockery, Fayette County extension agent for horticulture, and Esther Moberly with Bluegrass PRIDE will discuss “green” gardening from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. April 17 at The Arboretum’s visitor center. Topics will include composting, plant selection, making the most of a small lawn, water management and recycling.

“There will be a whole lot of different tips and ideas that may make your garden a little greener,” Dockery said.

With many Bluegrass residents concerned about water issues, a panel of water experts including UK bioenvironmental engineer, Steve Workman, will address this topic at 6 p.m. April 23 in the UK student center.

All events are open to the public. For a full list of activities, visit UK Student Affair’s Web site or the at the Kentucky Environmental and Public Protection Cabinet’s Web site.