Lots is happening with the Environmental Committee right now!

On Friday, October 19, Billy Carter from Allied Waste Management and Rick Thomas from the City of Grapevine came to Dove and talked to the kids about reducing waste, reusing items, and recycling. They also talked about water conservation and gave us lots of interesting facts about water usage in our homes. Did you know it takes 4-7 gallons of water to flush a toilet? The kids seemed to enjoy it and they all learned a little more about heling the environment. As an added incentive to reduce waste, each child and staff member received a high quality reusable grocery bag to take home. We are hoping that the students will help encourage their parents to use them instead of plastic or paper grocery bags.

On Saturday, October 20, the Fourth grade had their garden work day. Some dedicated volunteers came and helped weed the garden and plant wild flower seeds in our wildflower garden. While we we there we noticed about 7 or 8 big fat happy caterpillars enjoying the fennel. How exciting that the caterpillars are making a home in our garden. That means the butterflies are "in the making".

Here are some links to more information on green living:

• www.greendimes.com Reduce your junk mail and help plant trees while you do it.
• http://www.trinitywaste.com/res_recycle.htm to find out what you can recycle in Grapevine
• City of Grapevine To find out more interesting information about recycling.
• Also check out www.epa.gov and you can find lots of information geared toward kids, elementary students and teachers. Also lots of other information about water conservation and quality.
• Try searching "green living" on your web browser. You'll find all sorts of great information.