The Illinois EPA, IL Department of Agriculture and the IL Department of Natural Resources began Earth Stewardship Day in 1991 to provide an Earth Day related event for Sangamon County 4th grade students in order to expose them to the interdependence of humans and the natural resources at an impressionable age. Since then, ESD has grown into a very popular event of fun and excitement for nearly 1,000 students each year, who learn about the importance of sustainability and natural resource management in a stimulating environment.

This event is generally held during the first week in May from 9:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The students rotate through five to seven 20 minute interactive sessions (some featured presenters require 50 minute sessions). Presenters from a wide range of agencies and organizations participate with hands-on activities addressing the importance of protecting, restoring, recycling and reusing our natural resources.

ESD Sponsors

ESD 2013

Information for ESD 2013 will be mailed to eligible schools. Sangamon County Earth Stewardship Day will be held on Wednesday, May 1, 2013.

Earth Stewardship Day Photos

Students learn about hazardous material and how dangerous it can be when disposed of improperly.
Students learn about Pat's Pond Critters.
Brian "Fox" Ellis teaches the students with a story about the "Adventures with Audubon."
The Lanphier High School Environmental Club teach the students about recycling.
After presenting about birds, the Auburn High School Science Club pause to take a quick picture with their students.
Students get an up close lesson on the IL Birds of Prey.
Grant Middle School's IL Math and Science Academy students taught the younger students about the detrimental effects climate change can have on the earth by playing the Global Warming game.
Students learn about the dynamics of streams and rivers.
Students hear the "Story of Petroleum" as told by the "Oil Dude."
Students get up close and personal with a flathead catfish.
Students enjoy the "Macroinvertebrate Mayhem" presentation.
Macroinvertebrates are cool!