Enjoy the outdoors? Like to get your hands dirty? Want to make an environmental difference for the community? Want to be apart of the Citizens’ Environmental Academy?
The Citizens’ Environmental Academy is accepting applications for individuals who have a passion for improving the Lexington environment. This program is a year long commitment that is presented by Lexington’s Department of Environmental Quality and Public Works. It is designed to engage Fayette County residents in environmental issues related to the department’s work.
Brian Popa says the part of the academy he enjoyed the most was touring the different facilities managed by the Department of Environmental Quality and Public Works, especially waste water treatment and recycling plants. “I was able to learn a great deal because I had not previously thought about how these operations worked,” Popa says. “Not only did I get to see the inner workings firsthand, but I learned about the challenges these operational units faced and how, as a citizen, I can help.”
Participants will meet on Saturday each month for talks, tours, and hands-on activity. The places that will be attended to are the Recycling Center, Town Branch Wastewater Treatment Plant, the Senior Center, and McConnell Springs. Each participant will be allowed up to $2,500 to contribute toward their chosen project and these projects are selected by class vote and need to be approved, along with the budget, by the city.
Dawn Shroyer says the experience has helped her professionally. “I am very grateful for the opportunity and that the city decided to invest in me with this experience. I know it has been a mutually rewarding experience because I have used the tools to keep making progress and do not plan to slow down!”
For additional information, including the academy schedule and application, visit www.lexingtonky.gov/CEA. Applications are due March 29, and the new class will begin on May 18.
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