You might have noticed the advertisements in both the print and online editions of The Citizen for something called “Go Green.”

This fall, we'll be publishing a special section with that name, and we're hoping many of you can help us out. But before I go into how you can assist, let me give you an overview of “Go Green.”

The special section is going to explore the explosion of trends related to environmental conservation that we've seen locally and beyond. From the home to the workplace, from the classroom to the local park or ball field, increasing numbers of people are looking for ways to do things in a greener way.

And we're also now seeing that going green is also a way to make green. Homeowners are discovering how energy efficiency is good for their wallets as well as the earth. A growing number of businesses are tapping into new markets for environmentally friendly products and services.

Our guide will explore all of these trends, both here in central New York and throughout the country. We'll do it with articles, graphics and photography. We'll do it with special online features. Advertising in the section will also have a green focus.

While our talented group of employees will be responsible for the bulk of this project, we're also going to be able to tap the resources of our parent company, Lee Enterprises. That's because “Go Green” is a product being created on a local level throughout our company of 56 daily newspapers, and we're sharing the best of what we gather for this section with each other.

The end result is what we think will be one of the most successful special sections readers of The Citizen have ever seen from us.

So back to my original point ... how can you help?

It's simple, really. Just share your ideas.

As a foundation for this section, we're looking to hear from readers who have incorporated “green” practices into their everyday lives. It doesn't have to be anything dramatic. Perhaps you've made an effort to walk to more places or you've renewed a commitment to recycle before throwing something in the trash. Maybe you've been gradually replacing windows or appliances in your home for improved energy efficiency - and lower utility bills.

What we're looking for is a bunch of simple steps we can consider taking that can make a difference to the environment.

Send your stories to me directly, either via e-mail at jeremy.boyer@lee.net or the slower method at The Citizen, 25 Dill St., Auburn, NY 13021. In 200 words or less, describe what you've done, how it benefits the earth and perhaps yourself. If you'd like, tell us what inspired you to take action.

Executive editor Jeremy Boyer's columns appear Saturdays in The Citizen and he can be reached at 253-5311 ext. 231 or jeremy.boyer@lee.net