2023 Earth Day
Dear Friend,
Earth Day is fast approaching with some incredible community events and volunteer opportunities taking place across Orange County!
On Saturday, April 22nd, we are not only coming together as a community to celebrate our local natural environmental beauty – we are taking action with city cleanups, tree plantings, free bus rides, and more.
As Chair of the Senate Natural Resources and Water Committee, protecting our planet and turning the tide on climate change is a central part of my work in Sacramento. I am so proud to shepherd a variety of bills that continue to position the State of California as a leader and innovator in the movement toward a more sustainable future (you can learn more about the legislation I am working on below).
This Earth Day, I invite you to join me in this movement. Whether it is by volunteering at upcoming events near you or though smaller, environmentally conscious actions, becoming involved at any level makes a difference in protecting our planet for the next generations.
Let’s stand together.
Sincerely,
Dave Min
Senator, 37th Senate District
Legislative Update
- Senate Bill (SB) 559 - Ban on Offshore Drilling: Will end all oil production in state waters to prevent future, oil spill disasters. Orange County is home to California’s last three remaining offshore platforms and we will not tolerate another oil spill on our shores.
- SB 337 - Statewide Land and Coastal Water Conservation: SB 337 codifies a goal to conserve at least 30 percent of state land and coastal waters by 2030. Conserving the Earth’s lands and waters is one of the best tools available to prevent extinction and protect biodiversity and ecosystems.
- SB 704 - Clean Energy Policies for the 21st Century: As California decarbonizes its energy supply and plans for offshore wind generation, SB 704 strengthens environmental protections for oil and gas facilities under the Coastal Act to speed our transition toward a clean energy economy.
Climate Action in Orange County
Completion of the World’s Largest Water Recycling Facility!
This month, the OC Water District completed the final expansion to the world’s largest water recycling facility, the Groundwater Replenishment System (GWRS). The new facility produces 130 million gallons of water a day – enough water to serve nearly one million people in Orange County. The GWRS recycles 100 percent of local reclaimable wastewater flows, an industry first and unheard of with other wastewater recycling projects. This expansion maximizes water recycling efforts and increases drinking water supplies for the region.
Protecting Endangered Species in Newport Beach!
Earlier this month, I was proud to announce that the California Coastal Conservancy awarded Orange County Coastkeepers $143,000 to help protect endangered species as part of the Santa Ana River Mouth Monitoring Project. Located in Newport Beach, the project will support the preservation of sensitive habitats and reduce the impacts of human activity. Learn more about the Monitoring Project here.
UPCOMING EVENTS & COMMUNITY OPPORTUNITIES
Earth Day at the Bay - This Saturday!
Head to Upper Newport Bay for the return of our annual Earth Day Celebration! Join Newport Bay Conservancy at the Peter and Mary Muth Interpretive Center for a free family-friendly day full of hands-on arts and crafts, educational activities, and science discovery. For more information, click here.
California Climate Action Corps - Recruiting 2023 Summer Fellows!
California Climate Action Corps is currently accepting applications from those interested in serving for two months starting in June, with public agencies, tribes, nonprofits, and schools throughout the state to engage communities in climate action and education. As AmeriCorps members, selected fellows will serve 300 hours and learn real-world climate action skills through community projects while being part of this unique program and statewide force of emerging leaders.
Fellows will earn a stipend of more than $5,000 (spread over two months) and an education award of nearly $1,500 upon completion to pay educational expenses at eligible schools and training programs or repay qualified student loans.
Apply today!
The LGBTQ Center OC's Lavender Scholarship — Now Accepting Applications!
The LGBTQ Center OC is currently accepting applications for the Lavender Scholarship, $3,500 per awardee, which will be awarded to four (4) applicants who meet all criteria listed. These funds are intended to uplift and empower LGBTQ youth who are in need of financial assistance in order to further their education. The award ceremony will be taking place on June 17, 2023, in-person, during Lavender Graduation, at the LGBT Center on Fourth. The scholarship is to help fund education costs, which will be sent to the school identified by awardee directly. Applications close on Friday, May 19, 2023. Register here: bit.ly/lavenderscholarship23
Eligibility Requirements:
1) You are eligible to apply for the scholarship if you are currently a senior in an Orange County high school with plans on attending an accredited higher education institution or trade school.
2) A current student enrolled in college, university, or a trade school living in Orange County.
3) Submission of two (2) letters of recommendation from individuals that are familiar with your academic career, leadership, and financial status.
4) You are not employed by the LGBTQ Center OC, have not served on its Board of Directors within the past 12 months, nor have immediate family members who are employed by the LGBTQ Center OC nor serve on its Board of Directors.
Celebrate Earth Day with Free Rides on OC Bus!
Join us in honoring the planet this Earth Day by choosing clean transportation! On April 22, 2023, ride any fixed route OC Bus for free and take a step toward reducing pollution and taking cars off the road. Our OC Bus fleet runs on clean, renewable energy now and OCTA is committed to a zero emission future to bring even cleaner air quality to Orange County. By choosing public transportation, you will do your part for the environment while saving money and avoiding the stress of driving.