In 1990, 5,000 trees were planted in conjunction with a week of activities planned to celebrate the environment. In the past, activities have also included an energy conservation drive in residence halls and a push to reduce food waste in the cafeteria.

St. Olaf converted what are now the wetlands back to their natural habitat as a means to become more environmentally conscious, as well as create a learning center for biologists and liberal arts students alike. Furthermore, St. Olaf has connected with the School Nature Area Project to support nature studies and curriculum in Minnesota schools.

Perhaps an appropriate message this year may reflect on former President Chris Thomforde's words from 2004: "Earth Day can be a time for us to grow in appreciation of our planetary home, to wonder about its breadth and greatness and its future."

Thomforde continued, asserting that Earth Day is a time "for all of us to reflect together about St. Olaf's calling to care for the planet and its people."

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