Volunteer Stewardship Calendar

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Please come out a​​nd join us for one of these free events!  

How do​ I sign up to volunteer?

​Pre-registration through VolunteerHub is encouraged for workdays, so we can be as prepared as possible. Links to to register are in each event listed below, or go directly to our VolunteerHub page. 

What if I h​​ave a large group?

​If you have a large group (more than five people) interested in attending a volunteer workday, please contact our Work​day Coordinator at least two weeks in advance of the event. 

We work outside rain or shine, so please be prepared:

• Wear LONG SLEEVES, LONG PANTS, TALL SOCKS, and closed-toe SHOES OR BOOTS.
  
• Dress for the weather – layers recommended.
• Bring a water bottle.
  
  

Nature happens, so please be awa​re of hazards:

• Natural areas may have thorns, poison ivy, ticks, and mosquitoes.
• Work locations may be in full sun or have minimal shade.
• Conditions in the park may be snowy or muddy.
• Terrain may be hilly or steep.
  ​
  

​May 2024

Breeding Bird Survey Kickoff
Thursday, May 2
7-9 p.m.
Learn how to put your birding skills to use and survey for breeding birds in Ann Arbor's parks! Volunteer to help NAP with Ann Arbor's Breeding Bird Survey. Learn how NAP uses eBird to record survey results, sign up to survey your favorite park, hear about last year's survey, and access the survey materials. Note that experience in bird identification is necessary, and you must be able to identify birds by sight and sound to participate in this survey. This training will also be recorded. Register through VolunteerHub.

K-5 Forest Fridays
Searching for Salamanders
Friday, May 3
4:30-6 p.m.
Bird Hills Nature Area
Learn about native salamanders, what they're up to in spring, and then go for a one-mile hike to try to find some!

Meet at the Newport Rd parking lot entrance, just north of M-14. For K-5 students accompanied by an adult. Please dress to be prepared for weather. Preregistration through VolunteerHub is required. NAP uses VolunteerHub to manage participant waivers – please create individual accounts for each child. (Adults can use their own email address for child accounts). Feel free to call NAP for assistance, 734.794.6627.   

Stewardship Workday
Sunset Brooks Nature Area
Sunday, May 5
9 a.m.-noon
Wildflowers are picking up speed this time of year at parks like Sunset Brooks. This means a lovely morning for volunteers in this 8-acre oak-hickory woodland (with a prairie to boot)! Pulling invasive weeds with NAP will be easy and rewarding and have lasting effects for the local ecosystem.

Meet at the park entrance on Sunset Rd, at the end of Brooks St. Volunteers will pull invasive weeds from the ground by hand. Workday sites have unpaved trails and require going off-trail. Preregister through VolunteerHub so NAP can plan on enough staff and supplies for a safe and successful event. For your safety, wear long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes. All minors should be accompanied by a guardian. More information: How to prepare for a NAP workday (PDF).
 
 
Stewardship Workday
Miller Nature Area
Sunday, May 5
1-4 p.m.
If you've been a fan of Miller Park for even a few years, you'll know how much work is done there year after year to improve the health and habitat. And if you're really paying attention, you'll know the friendly (if determined) faces of the Park Stewards who are performing these feats of conservation. Lend a hand to these fierce defenders of Miller Park's nature and help remove invasive weeds.

 
Meet at the Arborview Blvd entrance, just east of Wildwood Ave. Volunteers will pull invasive weeds from the ground by hand. Workday sites have unpaved trails and require going off-trail. Preregister through VolunteerHub so NAP can plan on enough staff and supplies for a safe and successful event. For your safety, wear long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes. All minors should be accompanied by a guardian. More information: How to prepare for a NAP workday (PDF).
 
 
Stewardship Workday
World Migratory Bird Day
Marshall Nature Area
Saturday, May 11
9 a.m.-noon
This #MigratoryBirdDay, let's give bugs a chance! Migratory birds depend on insects for energy during the breeding season and on their long journeys. Natural areas that migratory birds have depended on for mid-journey food are being transformed into agriculture, housing developments, and even parking lots. Give migratory birds a chance to complete their cross-continent expedition by supporting insect habitat.

Meet at the parking lot off Dixboro Rd. (additional parking on Church St, across Dixboro). Volunteers will pull invasive weeds from the ground by hand. Workday sites have unpaved trails and require going off-trail. Preregister through VolunteerHub so NAP can plan on enough staff and supplies for a safe and successful event. For your safety, wear long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes. All minors should be accompanied by a guardian. More information: How to prepare for a NAP workday (PDF).
 
 
Stewardship Workday
World Migratory Bird Day
Huron Parkway Nature Area
Saturday, May 11
1-4 p.m.
Why highlight the connection between birds and insects on #MigratoryBirdDay? If you're a bird, you're thinking, “I eat them to stay alive and give me energy to migrate across the world!" If you're a farmer, land manager, homeowner, or backpacker, you're thinking, “I need birds to help control insect pests!" And if you're an insect, well, thank you for your service—we literally could not survive without you. If you're a volunteer, come celebrate birds and bugs by pulling invasive weeds for a Saturday afternoon!

Meet at the Park Steward's house—3470 Woodland Rd, off East Huron River Dr. Volunteers will pull invasive weeds from the ground by hand. Workday sites have unpaved trails and require going off-trail. Preregister through VolunteerHub so NAP can plan on enough staff and supplies for a safe and successful event. For your safety, wear long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes. All minors should be accompanied by a guardian. More information: How to prepare for a NAP workday (PDF).
 
 
Stewardship Workday
Molin Nature Area
Sunday, May 12
9 a.m.-noon
“Springtime. As the view from the window is getting greener and greener, my heart is getting stronger and stronger." Let this lyric from Yoko Ono bring you out to strengthen your heart through conservation. A spring morning at Molin Nature Area with NAP offers fresh air, greening nature, and rewarding work supporting natural habitat.

Meet at the corner of Powell Rd and Columbia Ave. Volunteers will pull invasive weeds from the ground by hand. Workday sites have unpaved trails and require going off-trail. Preregister through VolunteerHub so NAP can plan on enough staff and supplies for a safe and successful event. For your safety, wear long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes. All minors should be accompanied by a guardian. More information: How to prepare for a NAP workday (PDF).
 
 
Stewardship Workday
Berkshire Creek Nature Area
Sunday, May 12
1-4 p.m.
This nature area does a lot for the health of the Malletts Creekshed and the Huron River Watershed. The rocks and native plants that makeup the natural shoreline along the creek help control stormwater runoff. Stormwater runoff is a big deal - pollution, flooding, and sediments are all threats to clean water for humans and wildlife alike. Help keep the watershed flowing by making space and freeing up nutrients for native plants. 

Volunteers will pull invasive weeds from the ground by hand. Workday sites have unpaved trails and require going off-trail. Preregister through Volunte​erHub so NAP can plan on enough staff and supplies for a safe and successful event. For your safety, wear long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes. All minors should be accompanied by a guardian. More information: How to prepare for a NAP workday (PDF).
 

K-5 Nature Crafts
Build a Dragonfly
Wednesday, May 15
3:00-4:30 p.m.
Island Park Shelter A
Learn about Michigan dragonflies and damselflies! Take a hike to find them in the park, then use natural materials to build your own! Remember to wear your closed-toe shoes and long pants!

Meet at Island Park Shelter A, the first shelter you'll see when arriving at the park. For K-5 students accompanied by an adult. Please dress to be prepared for all weather. Binoculars will be provided for kids, but feel free to bring your own! Preregistration through VolunteerHub is required. NAP uses VolunteerHub to manage participant waivers – please create individual accounts for each child. (Adults can use their own email address for child accounts). Feel free to call NAP for assistance, 734.794.6627.   ​

Stewardship Workday
Endangered Species Day
Narrow Gauge Way
Saturday, May 18
9 a.m.-noon
If you're ready to “walk the walk" and directly help #EndangeredSpecies, come out for a morning of habitat conservation at Narrow Gauge Way! Exotic plants can take space and nutrients from the native plants our wildlife depend on for food, shelter, and breeding. Join other volunteers and NAP staff for #EndangeredSpeciesDay to remove invasive weeds.

Meet at the corner of Narrow Gauge Way and Watershed Dr. Volunteers will pull invasive weeds from the ground by hand. Workday sites have unpaved trails and require going off-trail. Preregister through VolunteerHub so NAP can plan on enough staff and supplies for a safe and successful event. For your safety, wear long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes. All minors should be accompanied by a guardian. More information: How to prepare for a NAP workday (PDF).
 
 
Stewardship Workday
Endangered Species Day
Ruthven Nature Area
Saturday, May 18
1-4 p.m.
The Michigan DNR points out, “many threatened and endangered species rely on high-quality natural areas that benefit all of us by providing clean water, clean air and places for us to enjoy nature. When species are struggling, it can indicate declines in the functioning of those natural areas, which in turn can impact our quality of life." Join NAP for #EndangeredSpeciesDay to protect natural habitat!

Meet at the park entrance off Huron Parkway. If driving: park at the Gallup Boat Dock parking lot, then follow the park path and use the crosswalk to get to the Ruthven Huron Parkway entrance (look for the NAP truck). Volunteers will pull invasive weeds from the ground by hand. Workday sites have unpaved trails and require going off-trail. Preregister through VolunteerHub so NAP can plan on enough staff and supplies for a safe and successful event. For your safety, wear long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes. All minors should be accompanied by a guardian. More information: How to prepare for a NAP workday (PDF).
 
 
Stewardship Workday
International Day for Biological Diversity
Black Pond Woods
Sunday, May 19
9 a.m.-noon
Celebrate and protect Black Pond Woods for the UN #InternationalDayforBiodiversity! As the UN explains, “When human activities produce greenhouse gases, around half of the emissions remain in the atmosphere, while the other half is absorbed by the land and ocean. These ecosystems – and the biodiversity they contain – are natural carbon sinks, providing so-called nature-based solutions to climate change."

Meet at the park entrance on Tibbits Ct, off Pontiac Trail. Volunteers will pull invasive weeds from the ground by hand.  Workday sites have unpaved trails and require going off-trail. Preregister through VolunteerHub so NAP can plan on enough staff and supplies for a safe and successful event. For your safety, wear long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes. All minors should be accompanied by a guardian. More information: How to prepare for a NAP workday (PDF).
 
 
Weekday Stewardship Workday
Bird Hills Nature Area
Friday, May 31
1-4 p.m.
Weekday conservationists, here's another Friday afternoon of removing invasive plants for you! Bring a friend or neighbor and close out the week (and the month!) with NAP amongst the beautiful blooming slopes at Bird Hills. You're sure to spy some lovely wildflowers (and make more space for them!) while pulling bittercress and Dame's rocket.

Meet at the Newport Rd parking lot entrance, just north of M-14. Volunteers will pull invasive weeds from the ground by hand. Workday sites have unpaved trails and require going off-trail. Preregister through VolunteerHub so NAP can plan on enough staff and supplies for a safe and successful event. For your safety, wear long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes. All minors should be accompanied by a guardian. More information: How to prepare for a NAP workday (PDF).

​June 2024

Stewardship Workday
National Trails Day
Bird Hills Nature Area
Saturday, June 1
9 a.m.-noon
Celebrating #NationalTrailsDay with a public workday at Bird Hills is a NAP tradition! Volunteers have been showing up for Bird Hills since 1994 at NAP's very first public workday. And it's no surprise that one of Ann Arbor's most loved natural areas keeps bringing volunteers back year after year! Keep the stewardship tradition going and help improve the trails with NAP for National Trails Day.

Meet at the Newport Rd parking lot entrance, just north of M-14. Volunteers will perform trail maintenance by cutting back shrubs using hand pruners and loppers. Workday sites have unpaved trails and require going off-trail. Preregister through VolunteerHub so NAP can plan on enough staff and supplies for a safe and successful event. For your safety, wear long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes. All minors should be accompanied by a guardian. More information: How to prepare for a NAP workday (PDF).

 
Stewardship Workday
Bird Hills Nature Area
Saturday, June 1
1-4 p.m.
Pulling invasive weeds supports the natural habitat of insects and other invertebrates, which are one of the most important sources of energy for our furry and feathery, smooth and leathery, scaly and prickly friends! This will be two days in a row of volunteer events at Bird Hills and everyone is excited to see the transformation! Probably the most excited will be the wildlife of this nature area who benefit from the immense effort from volunteers.

Meet at the Newport Rd parking lot entrance, just north of M-14. Volunteers will pull invasive weeds from the ground by hand. Workday sites have unpaved trails and require going off-trail. Preregister through VolunteerHub so NAP can plan on enough staff and supplies for a safe and successful event. For your safety, wear long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes. All minors should be accompanied by a guardian. More information: How to prepare for a NAP workday (PDF).

Stewardship Workday
National Trails Day
Bluffs Nature Area
Sunday, June 2
1-4 p.m.
Calling all hiking enthusiasts (and anyone who likes a stroll or roll through nature) for a rewarding trail maintenance event on National Trails Day! No prior experience is necessary – just bring your enthusiasm and a willingness to get your hands dirty! Together, we'll enhance pathways for hikers, bikers, and outdoor lovers to explore and enjoy for years to come. Embrace the spirit of stewardship and adventure by signing up now to help build a better trail for all to enjoy!

Meet at the park entrance on Orkney Dr. Volunteers will perform trail maintenance by cutting back shrubs using hand pruners and loppers. Workday sites have unpaved trails and require going off-trail. Preregister through VolunteerHub so NAP can plan on enough staff and supplies for a safe and successful event. For your safety, wear long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes. All minors should be accompanied by a guardian. More information: How to prepare for a NAP workday (PDF).

Stewardship Workday
World Environment Day
Fuller Park
Saturday, June 8
9 a.m.-noon
Celebrate World Environment Day and take action with NAP! This invasive weed pulling event will help restore and protect our local natural habitats. This is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to environmental conservation efforts and learn more about the native flora and fauna. Join in a community of like-minded individuals committed to making a difference for our planet. Let's pull together to promote biodiversity and support a healthier ecosystem!

Meet at the Island Park parking lot, at the end of Island Dr. Volunteers will pull invasive weeds from the ground by hand. Workday sites have unpaved trails and require going off-trail. Preregister through VolunteerHub so NAP can plan on enough staff and supplies for a safe and successful event. For your safety, wear long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes. All minors should be accompanied by a guardian. More information: How to prepare for a NAP workday (PDF).
 
 
Stewardship Workday
Dolph Nature Area
Sunday, June 9
9 a.m.-noon
Help reclaim our native landscapes! Join this upcoming invasive weed pulling event and make a direct impact on preserving biodiversity in our community. No prior experience is necessary – just bring your enthusiasm and willingness to get your hands dirty. With other volunteers, work to eradicate harmful invasive species, allowing native plants to thrive and supporting a healthier ecosystem for all. Sign up today and be a part of the solution to protect our environment for future generations!

Meet at the trailhead off Parklake Ave, just south of Lakeview Dr. Volunteers will pull invasive weeds from the ground by hand. Workday sites have unpaved trails and require going off-trail. Preregister through VolunteerHub so NAP can plan on enough staff and supplies for a safe and successful event. For your safety, wear long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes. All minors should be accompanied by a guardian. More information: How to prepare for a NAP workday (PDF).
 
 
Stewardship Workday
Pollinator Week
Brokaw Nature Area
Saturday, June 22
9 a.m.-noon
Get involved this National Pollinator Week by volunteering for an invasive weed pulling event! This hands-on activity is one of NAP's tools for maintaining the health of our local ecosystem, providing a safer habitat for pollinators, and enhancing native plant life. No experience is needed, just a willingness to help and a love for the outdoors. Come make new friends, and take a stand for the environment and our pollinator pals!

Meet at the parking lot off West Huron River Dr, just southeast of Wagner Rd. Volunteers will pull invasive weeds from the ground by hand. Workday sites have unpaved trails and require going off-trail. Preregister through VolunteerHub so NAP can plan on enough staff and supplies for a safe and successful event. For your safety, wear long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes. All minors should be accompanied by a guardian. More information: How to prepare for a NAP workday (PDF).
 
 
Stewardship Workday
Pollinator Week
Olson Nature Area
Sunday, June 23
1-4 p.m.
Looking for a meaningful volunteering opportunity AND want to help our local ecosystem? Why not dedicate just a few hours of your time to preserving the natural habitat of essential pollinators like bees and butterflies? Whether you're a seasoned environmentalist or simply eager to make a positive impact, this event welcomes all skill levels and ages. Come connect with nature and fellow community members while making a tangible difference – together, let's ensure a thriving environment for our precious pollinators!

Meet at the entrance on Dhu Varren Rd, just east of Pontiac Trail. Volunteers will pull invasive weeds from the ground by hand. Workday sites have unpaved trails and require going off-trail. Preregister through VolunteerHub so NAP can plan on enough staff and supplies for a safe and successful event. For your safety, wear long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes. All minors should be accompanied by a guardian. More information: How to prepare for a NAP workday (PDF).
 
 
Weekday Stewardship Workday
Bird Hills Nature Area
Friday, June 28
1-4 p.m.
Kick off your weekend with a purpose this Friday afternoon by joining this invasive weed pulling event! It's a perfect chance to enjoy the outdoors, meet new friends, and make a tangible impact on our local ecosystem. No experience? No problem! NAP provides all the guidance and tools you need to help native plants flourish and keep our green spaces healthy. Sign up now and be part of a community dedicated to environmental stewardship!

Meet at the Newport Rd parking lot entrance, just north of M-14. Volunteers will pull invasive weeds from the ground by hand. Workday sites have unpaved trails and require going off-trail. Preregister through VolunteerHub so NAP can plan on enough staff and supplies for a safe and successful event. For your safety, wear long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes. All minors should be accompanied by a guardian. More information: How to prepare for a NAP workday (PDF).
 
 
Stewardship Workday
Bluffs Nature Area
Sunday, June 30
9 a.m.-noon
Join in the fight against invasive species at this volunteer event! This hands-on activity is a crucial part of NAP's efforts to protect our local ecosystems and ensure the health of native plant communities. Whether you're a green thumb or just looking to lend a hand, we welcome everyone to sign up now to contribute to this vital cause.

Meet at the entrance on Sunset Rd, just east of the cemetery. Volunteers will pull invasive weeds from the ground by hand. Workday sites have unpaved trails and require going off-trail. Preregister through VolunteerHub so NAP can plan on enough staff and supplies for a safe and successful event. For your safety, wear long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes. All minors should be accompanied by a guardian. More information: How to prepare for a NAP workday (PDF).​