There are many proactive measures we in Westchester County can take -- as a government, as individuals and as businesses -- to keep the environment clean and healthy, whether dealing with flooding or global warming.

One of County Executive Andy Spano's environmental initiatives deals with recycling. The goal is to use education and enforcement to significantly increase the tonnage county residents, schools and business recycle.

Beyond recycling metal, glass, pastic and paper at the curb, recycling events such as Household Recycling Days are held throughout the county year round, where residents can bring other recyclable items, such as plastic bags and expired medications. With paper, residents are encouraged to go one step further and shred it. Westchester's mobile shredder truck is available to residents at many of the recycling events. And, shredding works twofold -- it condenses the physical amount being recycled and it protects against identity theft.

Plus, you can donate your old computers and cell phones, adopt a park, or volunteer to help restore our aquatic  attractions.  or go on a digital Treasure Hunt to get or give away used but usable items.

To protect our local environment and surroundings of natural beauty, we're always looking for your suggestions of open space locations.