Earth Day is today, April 22, 2026.
Celebrated annually on April 22, Earth Day began in 1970 to put a spotlight on environmental issues, like climate change and pollution, that were impacting the United States. Since then it has become a global movement that acknowledges the way humans can come together to take better care of our planet.
Hoosiers can celebrate Earth Day by reading some of IndyStar’s latest environmental coverage.
1. Hummingbirds are migrating back to Indiana
Hummingbirds breed in Indiana and head south each winter to warmer climates. But spring migration is underway. Here’s when they’ll be back.
2. Indiana steel industry must go clean to preserve jobs, study says
A series of reports forecast a transition away from steel making that pollutes the air and environment while saving jobs.
3. Mosquito season will soon be in full swing. How to stay safe
Indiana’s mosquito season officially begins next week week, but the pests are already out. Learn how to protect yourself.
4. First for Eagle Creek Park: Animal not seen here before leaves tracks
After three decades of otter reintroduction efforts, staff at Eagle Creek Park are finally seeing evidence the animals have found their way to the reservoir.
5. See video of the first otter seen in Eagle Creek Park
Over 30 years ago, otters were reintroduced to Indiana, but they’ve never been documented at Eagle Creek Park. Until now.
6. How to help native Indiana turtles cross the road safely
Indiana DNR shares how to help native Indiana turtles cross the road safely and why they don’t make good pets.
7. EPA coal ash rollback ‘decimates’ water, public health protections
The U.S. EPA proposed to roll back coal ash cleanup rules initially designed to protect people and water from pollution.
8. Lyrid meteor shower is this week in Indiana
The Lyrid meteor shower peaks this week in Indiana, which of course has had some rainy weather. Here is when and where to look for the dazzling display.
9. Indiana added more solar to its grid last year than ever before
In the face of vanishing renewable energy grants and disappearing tax incentives, solar capacity nearly doubled in Indiana last year.
10. How to forage in Indiana spring for morels and more this spring
Indiana foragers provide tips, tricks and advice to finding the tastiest treats our wilderness offers.
11. Indiana tap water turns brown in some town. Why won’t someone fix it?
Rural towns throughout Indiana compete for limited funding to upgrade critical drinking water systems, but money isn’t always available.
12. Indiana has some of the dirtiest water in the nation. This act may change that.
Bills in the U.S. House and Senate addressing the Ohio River could bring federal money to Indiana and improve water quality.
13. Smoky and ablaze, Newfields is fighting ecosystem threats with fire
When Newfields acquired the 100-acre Fairbanks Park, 70 percent of it was covered in invasive species. Prescribed fire has helped save the ecosystem.
This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: It’s Earth Day. See IndyStar’s latest coverage about the environment
Reporting by Katie Wiseman, Sophie Hartley, Karl Schneider and John Tufts, Indianapolis Star / Indianapolis Star
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
