News Detail

Commissioners Recognize Earth Day, Environmental Education In Franklin County

Commissioners

April 23, 2026

Pictured (from left): Franklin County Commissioner Chairman Dean Horst, Franklin County Senior Planner Colleen Tidd and Commissioner Bob Ziobrowski

CHAMBERSBURG, Pa. – The Franklin County Commissioners have proclaimed April 25, 2026, to be Earth Day in Franklin County. In doing so, the commissioners demonstrated their support for balancing growth with responsible environmental stewardship as well as their commitment to working with local organizations to promote environmental education.

Franklin County’s 10-year comprehensive plan, Imagine Franklin 2035, serves as a blueprint for responsible, harmonious growth and development and incorporates the county’s objectives related to the environment. Among the principles outlined in Imagine Franklin 2035 is a focus on sustaining open spaces as well as preserving the aesthetic and historic characteristics of Franklin County’s communities. The plan emphasizes the importance of protecting the county’s farmland as well as safeguarding its forests, streams and other valuable natural recreational areas, both for the enjoyment of today’s residents and for those who will one day call Franklin County home.

“As more residents and businesses choose to call our area home, it’s essential that we as community leaders guide growth responsibly so we can preserve our natural resources and open spaces for the generations that follow,” said Franklin County Commissioner Chairman Dean Horst. “Earth Day reminds us to value and protect the natural assets — our parks, forests and streams — that we sometimes overlook.”

By recognizing Earth Day, the commissioners also reaffirm their support for educational programming and events to help local children and other residents understand and appreciate the world around them and the value of caring for the environment.

Earth Day in Franklin County coincides with the Buttonwood Nature Center’s annual Earth Celebration Day at the Pine Hill Recreation Area, Waynesboro. The free event includes a recycle/reuse yard sale fundraiser from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. as well as an earth celebration from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. A variety of activities are planned, including a student art show, vendors and eco-friendly exhibitors, paper shredding, live music, food trucks, a bake sale, a special story walk, a visit by the Pennsylvania WoodMobile and more.

For more information, visit buttonwoodnaturecenter.org.