Olmsted County celebrates Earth Day with community events!

April 22, 2025

Happy Earth Day! Are you looking to give back to the environment this spring? Join in one (or all) of the following events!

Litter Bit Better (underway)

The 19th annual Litter Bit Better (ALBB) is underway and will run through Sunday, April 27, 2025. This event is a chance for Olmsted County residents to come together to care for the environment and keep Rochester looking its best. Since the program's launch in 2007, volunteers have removed more than 145 tons of litter from the community. Volunteers can register online: ALBB Registration Map. Trash and recycling bags are provided for all participants.

Arbor Day Celebration (Friday, April 25, 2025)

Rochester Public Utilities (RPU), ArborWise, Davey Tree, Rochester Parks & Recreation, and Sargent's Gardens proudly partner to host the Annual Arbor Day Celebration each year on the last Friday in April. This year marks the 23rd Annual Arbor Day Celebration, and we invite the community to join us for a day filled with fun, education, and tree appreciation!

This family-friendly event includes live music, free food, tree giveaways, vendor booths, and engaging activities for all ages.

Event details

Waste-to-Energy Open House (Saturday, April 26, 2025)

The Olmsted Waste-to-Energy Facility (OWEF) will host its annual open house on Saturday, April 26, 2025, from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Take a family-friendly tour (approximately 20 - 30 minutes) and see how Olmsted County creates energy from your garbage! New this year - local waste haulers will have garbage/recycling trucks parked on display just outside the facility's entrance. The OWEF is located near the Recycling Center Plus at 301 Energy Parkway NE, in Rochester. Visit our website for more information.

Fix-It Clinic (Saturday, May 3, 2025)

Need something repaired? Bring it to a Fix-It Clinic! We’ll have experienced menders and fixers on site to help you repair and restore items—absolutely free!

Whether it’s a favorite jacket, a pair of worn-out jeans, or anything in between, our skilled volunteers will do their best to repair it, while teaching you how to do it yourself.

Event details

  • Date: Saturday, May 3, 2025
  • Time: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
  • Location: Saint Mary’s University-Rochester at Cascade Meadow

Examples of items that may be repaired include:

  • Clothing and textiles.
  • Small appliances such as toasters, blenders, and coffee makers.
  • Small electric devices such as lamps, clocks, and radios.
  • Toys, vacuums, jewelry, and items requiring minor carpentry repairs.

Important reminders:

  • Households may bring up to two items.
  • Volunteers will do their best to assist, but repairs are not guaranteed.
  • Electronics such as televisions, cell phones, and computers will not be accepted.
  • Items with gas engines will not be accepted.
  • All items should be small enough for one person to carry.

More information about the event can be found on our website. This event will occur in conjunction with the EarthFest Rochester MN, Expo.

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Media contact: Anthony Wittmer, Communications Specialist, 507-328-6737