Ottawa County residents invited to restore local landscapes in celebration of Earth Day
Ottawa County Parks is calling on community members to roll up their sleeves this Saturday, April 18, for a series of volunteer workdays in honor of Earth Day.
OTTAWA COUNTY — Ottawa County Parks is calling on community members to roll up their sleeves this Saturday, April 18, for a series of volunteer workdays in honor of Earth Day.
The events, which run 10 a.m.-noon, focus on critical conservation efforts, including the removal of invasive species and litter to bolster the ecological health of the county’s public lands.
Parks staff will be stationed at the main parking lots of each site to provide equipment, safety briefings and hands-on instruction. Organizers have noted that while the Black Lake Boardwalk site has already reached maximum capacity, spots remain available at Pigeon Creek Park (South) and Bend Area Open Space (North).
Volunteers are encouraged to register online in advance to ensure adequate supplies are available.
"These events are a vital part of maintaining our natural resources," the Parks & Recreation Commission said in a Tuesday news release. "Whether you can stay for the full two hours or just stop by for a short time, every bit of help makes a difference."
In the event of severe weather, the workdays will be canceled. Registered participants will receive notification via email should conditions become unsafe.
Large groups or local organizations interested in coordinated service projects are asked to contact Carly Garvelink, volunteer program supervisor, at cgarvelink@miottawa.org for specialized arrangements.
For the full list of volunteer cleanup opportunities, click here.
— Submitted by the Ottawa County Parks & Recreation Commission. To submit a news tip, email newsroom@ottawanewsnetwork.org.
