Michigan State Parks seeks stewardship workday volunteers



The Michigan Department of Natural Resources recently announced the August schedule of volunteer stewardship workdays at state parks and recreation areas in southeast Michigan.

Volunteers are needed to pull invasive, non-native weeds from prairies and remove invasive, non-native shrubs like glossy buckthorn, autumn olive, multi-flora rose and others. These activities are a great way to enjoy time outdoors in the summer while restoring high-quality, unique ecosystems and learning more about them. 

Watch this brief video (above) to learn more about why these volunteer stewardship efforts are so important to protecting natural areas and ecosystems in Michigan state parks and recreation areas. 

Workday dates, locations (counties) and times include:
Volunteers should bring work gloves, drinking water and appropriate clothing for outdoor work, including long pants and sturdy, closed-toe shoes. For spotted knapweed pulling, long sleeves also are recommended, as some people area sensitive to the plant.

All volunteers are asked to register using the form available on the DNR website or via email. Any questions should be directed Echo Prafke-Marson at 517-719-2285 orprafkemarsone@michigan.gov.

The DNR's Volunteer Stewardship Program is a hands-on way for all ages to learn about and protect Michigan's natural resources by collecting native seeds, removing invasive species, conducting plant and animal surveys and more. Other ways to volunteer with the DNR include joining a state park friends group, serving as a campground host or a lightkeeper and many other opportunities. 

Workday details, maps and directions can be found on the DNR website at www.michigan.gov/dnrvolunteers and click on the Calendar of Volunteer Stewardship Workdays.