Celebrate, Pitch in on Earth Day 2012 in Apple Valley

Sunday marks the 42nd annual Earth Day, a one-day reminder to appreciate the environment, and inspiration to continue kind environmental practices throughout the year.

Here's what a few local groups are planning to celebrate the occasion:

• The will hold its annual Earth Day celebration at the , where students will see the new IMAX film To the Arctic 3D, then will hear from speakers and go out to do service projects in the community. Last year, SES prior to hearing from speakers and doing their service work for the day.

• staff are still looking for many volunteers to help clean up and beautify the park from noon to 3 p.m. Sunday; staff from the county's Simple Steps walking program also will be there, and program members can enter a drawing for prizes. Register to help by clicking here.

• will celebrate Earth during its Sunday services, which will include a full orchestra. Free tree seedlings will be available for attendees, courtesy Dakota Electric.

• OK with heading a little out of town? The Como Park Zoo and Conservatory has a three-day "Party for the Planet," with events and activities from Friday through Sunday. Play games, do crafts and more to learn about ways to positively impact the environment.

What will you do to celebrate or recognize Earth Day this year? How do you make your life a little greener? Let us know in the comments section below.