The Department of Natural Resources recently announced the February schedule of volunteer stewardship workdays at state parks in southeastern Michigan. Volunteers are needed to cut invasive, non-native shrubs from high-quality wetlands, woodlands and prairies. This activity is a great way to enjoy time outdoors in the winter while restoring unique ecosystems and learning more about them.
Workday dates, locations (counties) and times include:
Saturday, Feb. 7:
Waterloo Recreation Area (Jackson), 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Sunday, Feb. 8:
Highland Recreation Area (Oakland), 1-4 p.m.
Saturday, Feb. 14: Highland Recreation Area (Oakland), 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Saturday, Feb. 14:
Bald Mountain Recreation Area (Oakland), 9 a.m.-noon
Sunday, Feb. 15:
Pinckney Recreation Area (Washtenaw), 1-4 p.m.
Saturday, Feb. 21:
Belle Isle Park (Wayne), 9 a.m.-noon
Sunday, Feb. 22:
Brighton Recreation Area (Livingston), 1-4 p.m.
Saturday, Feb. 28:
Island Lake Recreation Area (Livingston), 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Volunteers should bring work gloves, drinking water and appropriate clothing for outdoor work, including long pants and sturdy, closed-toe shoes. For many winter sites, waterproof boots (either knee-high rubber boots or hip waders) are recommended to ensure dry feet. Rubber boots are available to borrow upon request and with advance notice. A limited supply is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
For workday details, maps and directions, visit the DNR website at www.michigan.gov/dnrvolunteers and click the link Calendar of Volunteer Stewardship Workdays.
All volunteers are asked to register using the
form available on the DNR website or via email. Any questions should be directed to Laurel Malvitz-Draper at 517-719-2285 or malvitzl@michigan.gov.
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is committed to the conservation, protection, management, use and enjoyment of the state's natural and cultural resources for current and future generations. For more information, go to www.michigan.gov/dnr.
Contact: Laurel Malvitz-Draper, 517-719-2285 or Ed Golder, 517-284-5815
