(w/video) Volunteer for September stewardship days at SW Michigan state parks

Help protect Michigan's natural areas by removing invasive plants.
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Statewide DNR News

Sept. 8, 2016

Contact: Heidi Frei, 517-202-1360

Volunteers needed in September for stewardship work at state parks and recreation areas in southwest Michigan

Volunteer working at Volunteer Stewardship Work DayThe Michigan Department of Natural Resources recently announced the September schedule of volunteer stewardship workdays at state parks in southwest Michigan, offering plenty of opportunities for area residents to help protect natural areas by removing non-native shrubs like autumn olive, multi-flora rose and Japanese barberry.

No experience is necessary, and training and equipment are provided. These activities are a great way to enjoy time outdoors in the late summer while restoring high-quality, unique ecosystems and learning more about them.

Workday dates, locations (counties) and times include:

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.

Watch this brief video 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.

All volunteers are asked to register using the form available on the DNR website or via email. Any questions should be directed to Heidi Frei at 517-202-1360 or freih@michigan.gov. Volunteers should bring work gloves, drinking water and appropriate clothing for outdoor work, including long pants and sturdy, closed-toe shoes.

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

Inside Michigan’s Great Outdoors subscribers are always the first to know about reservation opportunities, state park events and other outdoor happenings. Visit www.michigan.gov/dnr to subscribe now.

Learn more about how the Recreation Passport gains you access to Michigan state parks and more at www.michigan.gov/recreationpassport.

/Editors' note: An accompanying photo is available below for download. A suggested caption follows.

Volunteer stewardship workdays take place each month at state parks and recreation areas. Volunteer efforts at these workdays are critical in helping to protect Michigan's natural areas./


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.

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