With an eye toward sustainability and an understanding that America’s dependence on fossil fuels is unsustainable, local and state officials are planning for the future.

State Sen. Earl Garrison is leading the charge by spearheading the Green Country Alternative Energy Expo, an event scheduled Thursday and Friday at the Muskogee Fairgrounds.

Garrison said the idea for the exposition was sparked earlier this year as fuel prices soared toward $4 per gallon threshold.

“The No. 1 issue at that time was how can we afford to put fuel into our cars and still make a living,” Garrison said. “I suggested we have a symposium to explore the options of alternative energy. Since then I am pleased to see T. Boone Pickens push some of those same ideas.”

Both Oklahoma State University and the University of Oklahoma will be represented at the exposition as will a number of energy companies that are developing alternative energy resources such as wind and solar.

Discussion panels will address the nation’s energy needs and ways to satisfy them in a more sustainable way.

“It just makes sense to explore all the options out there,” Garrison said. “We cannot continue down the same path we’ve been heading.”

Garrison said lawmakers likely will look at ways to promote research and development of alternative energy resources and how best to implement them.

In recognition of the alternative energy exposition and the need for conservation and sustainability, Mayor John Tyler Hammons issued a proclamation Tuesday, designating the week of Sept. 29 through Oct. 5 as Green Week.

Hammons said he wants to encourage Muskogee “citizens to be a part of the solution to the energy crisis facing America.” Hammons said he will work with the City Council to implement “ideas to effectively address the future energy needs of the community.”

Recognizing the city’s recycling and conservation efforts, Hammons said there is a need to raise public awareness of issues and the options. Hammons said there is a need to develop a “community sustainability plan.”

“I urge the entire community to participate in Green Week activities to learn more about going green,” Hammons states in his proclamation. “I do hereby further urge all citizens to wear green-colored apparel throughout the week to demonstrate support for Green Week.”