Residents came out in droves last weekend to get their green on at Discovery Bay’s inaugural Earth Day festival at Slifer Park.

Nearly 700 residents attended and more than 200 volunteers rolled up their sleeves and planted trees, cleaned up the park and participated in environmental and earth-friendly activities. The event was developed by Discovery Bay General Manager Rick Howard based on a similar event he developed in Mission Viejo.

“This was a great event that showed the community how to be energy efficient, conserve natural resources and do it in a fun way,” said Howard. “We can’t wait until next year’s festival.”

Participants also enjoyed entertainment, food from local restaurants, informational displays and a family photo booth. Kite flying was available for the young – and young at heart – and also featured bounce houses, games, crafts and flowerpot planting.

Also present were local eco-friendly vendors such as the local garbage and recycling company County Vector Control; Contra Costa Storm Water; Pacific Coast Farmers’ Market; a hybrid car display; Veolia Water; and local landscaping companies.

Earth Day was founded in 1970 and reflected the nation’s growing concern for the environment. U.S. Sen. Gaylord Nelson rallied the public, media and Congress to create a day each year to put the environment at center stage.

The first Earth Day led to the creation of the Environmental Protection Agency and the passage of the Clean Air, Clean Water and Endangered Species acts. Now, 41 years later, Earth Day is celebrated every year on April 22 by millions around the world.