ELWOOD, NY – April 26, 2026
Even with a bit of uncooperative weather, the Town of Huntington’s Family Earth Day celebration proved that a little rain can’t dampen a community’s commitment to the environment. Families, organizations, and environmental advocates came together for a day filled with education, interaction, and inspiration, highlighting just how passionate Huntington residents are about protecting our planet. From hands-on exhibits to meaningful conversations, the event showcased the many ways people of all ages can get involved in sustainability and conservation.
One of the most engaging stops of the day was the Cornell Cooperative Extension Marine Program, where visitors – especially kids – were drawn to a lively touch tank filled with local sea life. As representatives explained, “We have a touch tank with local sea creatures, lots of shellfish, mussels, clams, oysters, and other sea snails like mud snails and periwinkle snails. We even have two bunk snails, which are really cool, and a lot of little hermit crabs running around in all sorts of shells.” The experience allowed children to see these creatures up close and personal while learning about the delicate ecosystems right in our own waters. Based out of Northport, the program maintains saltwater tanks throughout the warmer months, responsibly collecting marine life from areas like Sunken Meadow and Crab Meadow before returning them to the ocean at the end of the season, an important reminder of the balance between education and conservation.
We also spoke with a representative from the Town of Huntington’s Community Development Agency, Melina Pascual who shared valuable information about programs that many residents may not even realize are available. Focused on affordable housing and home rehabilitation, the agency works to support community members in maintaining safe and stable living conditions. “We manage developments that are considered affordable,” they explained, “and we have one waiting list that we encourage individuals who are interested in affordable housing to join.” Residents are encouraged to learn more and connect through the Town of Huntington website or the agency’s Facebook page, reinforcing the idea that sustainability also includes building strong, supported communities.
Another powerful message came from the Audubon Society, where Jay introduced the “Be a Good Egg” pledge – an initiative aimed at protecting Long Island’s shorebird populations. “Every summer, birds migrate to Long Island. They nest, breed, and raise their young here,” he shared. “But because of human development and disturbances, many of these birds are now threatened.” The pledge encourages simple but impactful actions, like taking all trash off the beach, keeping dogs leashed, and respecting designated nesting areas. Jay explained how easily birds can be disturbed: “When a bird sees a dog, it thinks predator. It leaves the nest to distract you, and every moment it’s off that nest affects incubation.” He also highlighted the importance of symbolic fencing seen at beaches like Jones Beach, which helps protect nesting areas typically located beyond the main sandy shoreline, near vegetation. “When you sign the Be a Good Egg pledge, you’re saying that both humans and birds can coexist on the beach and have a good time. We just have to recognize they deserve to be there as much as we do.”
Before the skies turned gray, attendees were treated to a truly unforgettable encounter thanks to Rob Schwartz, founder of Bald Eagles of Centerport, NY, who introduced the crowd to Montana, a rescued bald eagle with an incredible story. “This is Montana,” he shared. “He was rescued out of Montauk. He’s 14 years old and suffered a broken wing and a broken leg, and he can’t see out of one of his eyes. He’s now an education bird.” Montana’s role today is to help teach the public about raptors and wildlife conservation. He is cared for by Bobby of WINORR, Wildlife in Need of Rescue and Rehabilitation which is a fully volunteer, not-for-profit organization. Licensed through both New York State DEC and U.S. Fish and Wildlife, Bobby provides a safe home for Montana and many other animals who can no longer survive in the wild. As Rob noted, “His job is to educate the public – we can make people aware. The population is huge now, they’ve really made a nice comeback.” Seeing Montana up close was not only inspiring, but a powerful reminder of both the fragility and resilience of wildlife.
The Town’s Environmental Waste Department also shared important, practical guidance on recycling, information every household can use. Residents were reminded to check the triangle on plastic items, noting that bottles and containers labeled #1 through #7 are generally recyclable except for #6. Paper and cardboard such as cereal boxes and shipping boxes are accepted and even generate revenue for the town, but they must be clean. Items like pizza boxes with grease stains, paper towels, and tissues cannot be recycled. Additionally, plastic bags, plastic wrap, wax-coated containers, flower pots, and toys are not accepted in recycling bins. Another helpful tip: place recyclables out the night before in a covered bin, as collection begins as early as 5:00 AM.
Barbara Wildfeir of the Gateway Community Garden in Huntington Station shared that a limited number of free vegetable garden beds are currently available to Town of Huntington residents. The beds are open to anyone interested in growing their own food, and the group helps new gardeners learn how to get started and maintain their plots. As Wildfeir explained, the goal is simple – to welcome new gardeners, teach sustainable practices, and help residents grow fresh, healthy food right here in the community.
Local author Sharon Richmond was also in attendance, sharing her newly published children’s book, Finding Your North Star. “It’s a story about a little boy, Vincent, which is my son’s name, who has trouble figuring out where he fits in,” she explained. “With the help of his dog Compass, the neighbor’s dog Radar, and other neighborhood animals, he finds his way. By taking care of the environment, he realizes he wasn’t meant to fit in, he’s meant to stand out and make a difference in our world.” Even more inspiring, all proceeds from the book go toward local scholarships through the True North Foundation, which has already funded five $1,000 scholarships for graduating seniors. The foundation is also planning its second annual golf outing this year to continue supporting students in the community.
Creativity met sustainability at the Huntington Arts Council booth, where their “Second Chance Art Supplies” program is making a real environmental impact. “So far, we’ve kept six tons of materials out of landfills over the last two years,” they shared. The program collects gently used or unused art supplies and redistributes them to artists, nonprofits, and the community. Residents are encouraged to donate supplies by bringing them to their location on Main Street in Huntington Village, where the materials are given a second life through resale or donation keeping waste down while supporting creativity.
Despite the gray skies, the energy at Earth Day was anything but dull. The event served as a powerful reminder that environmental stewardship starts at the local level with education, awareness, and small actions that add up to meaningful change. Whether it’s learning about marine life, supporting community programs, protecting wildlife habitats, or simply recycling correctly, every effort counts.
As we reflect on the day, one message stands out clearly: getting involved matters. The Town of Huntington Family Earth Day may be over for this year, but the work continues every day. Take what you’ve learned, support local organizations, make more sustainable choices, and encourage others to do the same. Together, we can ensure a healthier, more vibrant planet for generations to come. 🌎
Photography by Dana E. Richter and June Margolin.
