Team Kirtland Marks Earth Day Published May 20, 2010 By Marie Vanover 377th Air Base Wing Public Affairs Kirtland Air Force Base, NM -- Earth Day was celebrated April 22 across the nation, the Air Force and here at Kirtland. Over the years, Earth Day has expanded from its original concept of saving trees and rain forests to climate action initiatives and greenhouse gas reduction. The 377th Civil Engineer Division Environmental Branch, in partnership with Sandia National Laboratories, sponsored Earth Day activities at the Kirtland Youth Center, including exhibits on energy-efficient lighting, demonstrations on groundwater hydrology, and how to build a terrarium using recycled plastic bottles. Other exhibits included educational information on different bird species. A Peregrine Falcon and a Burrowing Owl, with their handlers, provided attendees an up-close look at the birds and their habitat. Relay games incorporating recycling and energy conservation were also a part of the day's activities. Additionally, display tables with information on energy efficiency, recycling and endangered species were available at the base exchange. "An earth-friendly environment is everyone's responsibility," said Col. Robert Maness, 377th Air Base Wing commander. He challenged everyone to "think green" and set the tone by trading in his SUV for a "greener" 27-mile per gallon sedan staff car.