Nature Walk

If it weren't for those cherished green spaces tucked inside our cityscape, this town would be a dismal place indeed.

And springtime is the ultimate reminder of our reliance on these spots, from the tree-lined tranquility of Central Park to the riot of color found at the farmers' markets.

With this in mind, we want to give Earth Day extra due diligence this year. We've compiled a comprehensive guide (click here to download) to paying the planet back with your time and dining dollars.

Options range from lending a hand in a community garden to learning about water conservation and composting to planting trees. All you have to do is pick one and show up.

And with a summer full of outdoor barbecues, picnics and beach days on the horizon, you'll be glad you did.