KapStone completed its week of Earth Day projects today, planting flowers, ornamental grass and trees at River Falls Park in Weldon.

It is the fourth straight year the company has participated in events honoring Earth Day, said Kimberly Bracy, mill communications manager.

The projects, Bracy said, are designed to help the community and educate youth.

The projects at the park focused on the entrance where flowers were planted and two areas near playground equipment and the walking track.

This was the second year local landscaper Steve Owens helped out with the project as he and his crew got the flowerbeds prepared and laid out the landscaping. “KapStone is a great friend to the community. I’m glad a company like KapStone takes pride and gives back.”

Employees pose by the park sign.

Bernard Rose, fiber supply manager for the company, said every day is Earth Day for KapStone, explaining it has practiced sustainability for more than 100 years.

More trees are planted than cut. Every year there are 2.3 billion tree seedlings planted in the United States, most of them in the South.

Forest cover in North Carolina alone equates to 17.6 million acres. In Virginia it is 15.7 million. “Trees are a renewable resource that when managed responsibly will continue to provide forest products for future generations while protecting our environment.”