Fall marks the start of back-to-school and a new season of events across Montgomery County. As students return to the classroom, it is time to sharpen eco-friendly actions that will make a lasting impact on the planet. Montgomery County Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) will be at many events in September to share information and resources on ways an individual can contribute to a more sustainable future.

Among the events that DEP will have a presence after Labor Day is the Illumination Station from 10:30 a.m.- 2:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 3, at the Little Falls Library, 5501 Massachusetts Ave, Bethesda, MD 20816. Illuminations Stations are information tables that provide an opportunity to shine a light on ways for people to lower their utility bills, apply for energy assistance and receive items to help them save money.

DEP also will have a major presence at Poolesville Day from 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 21. The event annually has one of the largest displays of electric vehicles in the Mid-Atlantic Region. This year, electric vehicles from the County fleet, including an electric Ride On Bus, will be featured. DEP will be onsite, educating residents on electric vehicles. The event will take place in Downtown Poolesville at 19816 Fisher Ave.

“We are committed to educating our residents on ways to create a more eco-conscious tomorrow,” said Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich. “Fall is a great time to get outside and brush up on your environmental knowledge. I encourage everyone to explore what Montgomery County Department of Environmental Protection has to offer.”

The mission of Montgomery County Department of Environmental Protection is to enhance the quality of life in the community. DEP works with partners throughout the County to help people become better stewards of the environment.

“Across Montgomery County, people are taking action to protect and preserve our environment,” said DEP Director Jon Monger. “One small change in your daily routine can have a huge impact. The events are a great opportunity for the community to ask questions and learn about creating a greener and healthier Montgomery County.”

Have a question about recycling, going green at home and work, green communities, incentives and or rebates? Visit the DEP resource table at one of the upcoming events:

• Mid-Autumn Festival on Sunday, Sept. 8. 2-7 p.m. 12621 Old Columbia Pike in Silver Spring. Hosted by the Vietnamese American Service.
• Poolesville Day on Saturday, Sept. 21. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 19816 Fisher Ave in Poolesville.
• Family Empowerment Fair on Saturday, Sept. 21. 11 a.m.- 3 p.m. 51 Mannakee Street in Rockville. Hosted by Montgomery College.
• Latino Conservation Week: Community Day on Saturday, Sept. 21. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Wheaton Claridge Local Park, 11901 Claridge Rd. in Wheaton. In partnership with Montgomery Parks and Latino Health Initiative.
• Burtonsville Day on Saturday, Sept. 21. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. 14906 Old Columbia Pike in Burtonsville.
• National Hunting and Fishing Day on Saturday, Sept. 28. 1-5 p.m. 18301 Waring Station Rd. in Germantown. Hosted by the Izaak Walton League Rockville Chapter.
• Health and Community Service Fair on Saturday, Sept. 28. 2-5 p.m. 9366 Gaither Rd. in Gaithersburg.
• Wheaton Arts Parade and Festival on Sunday, Sept. 29. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 2425 Reedie Drive in Wheaton.
• Check out an Illumination Station near you. There will be nine events this month. Illumination stations provide the opportunity to lower utility bills, apply for energy assistance and make homes more energy efficient.