The Department of Natural Resources recently announced its December schedule of volunteer stewardship activities at state parks and recreation areas in southwestern Michigan, offering plenty of opportunities for area residents to get outdoors and enjoy the season in several of Michigan's most scenic places.

Volunteers are needed to assist in habitat restoration by removing invasive species that threaten native environments. Some exotic, invasive plants, such as barberry and privet, once were planted as a common landscape plant and now threaten to change habitat for birds and other species.

Volunteers will learn to identify these plants and make a significant impact by properly removing them from natural areas. No experience is necessary and training and equipment are provided. These volunteer activities are great for Scout groups, youth groups and community service organizations.

Workday dates, times and locations (counties) include:
Saturday, Dec. 6: Ionia Recreation Area (Ionia), 9 a.m.-noon
Sunday, Dec. 7: Muskegon State Park (Muskegon), 1-4 p.m.
Saturday, Dec. 13: Saugatuck Dunes State Park (Allegan), 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Sunday, Dec.14: Fort Custer Recreation Area (Kalamazoo), 1-4 p.m.
Volunteers should bring sturdy gloves and drinking water and dress accordingly for current weather conditions and outdoor work.

Workday activities are a fun and unique way to experience state parks in the snow. Activities will be held as planned except during hazardous driving conditions or severe, inclement weather. In the event of a weather-related cancellation, a voicemail message will be posted at 517-202-1360 at least two hours before the scheduled start time.

All volunteers, especially large groups, are encouraged to register in advance using the form available on the DNR website or via email. Questions should be directed to Heidi Frei at 517-202-1360 or freih@michigan.gov.

For more details on DNR volunteer steward activities, including meeting locations and activity descriptions, please visit www.michigan.gov/dnrvolunteers and click on the link for Calendar of Volunteer Steward Workdays.

Contact: Heidi Frei, 517-202-1360 or Ed Golder, 517-284-5815