As preserving ecosystems becomes more of a concern, local activists are taking steps to educate community members on environmental conservation. 

In this vein, the Coppell Nature Park is hosting EarthFest at the Biodiversity Education Center from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday.

EarthFest is a family-friendly event for Coppell residents. The event will have booths run by Coppell High School clubs and community groups, arts and crafts and a composting demonstration.

“The Earth is our home, and we want to make sure it’s a great place for us and all the other species to live,” BEC coordinator Maura Reed said. “Doing whatever we can to keep our home as beautiful and healthy as possible is a good thing.”

Activities will take place along the trails of the Coppell Nature Park, allowing attendees to view three different ecosystems: the cross-timbers forest, riparian and blackland prairie. The event is structured around Earth Day, which is celebrated internationally today.

“Earth Day has shifted into so many things since it started in 1970,” City of Coppell community programs coordinator Marissa Olivas said. “At first, it was a really radical movement, and now it’s something children celebrate every year in their classrooms.”

In accordance with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines, social distancing and masks are encouraged among attendees and required for event personnel. Hand sanitizer stations will be available throughout the event.

With rain projected on Friday, event coordinators are keeping plans on the trails flexible. However, EarthFest is arranged to continue despite inclement weather.

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