Volunteers needed in late October for park stewardship in southeastern Michigan

There's still a few opportunities left this October to volunteer for stewardship workdays at state parks in southeast Michigan.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources seeks volunteers who are needed to cut invasive, non-native shrubs or collect seeds from native prairie plants to restore high-quality natural areas. Finding non-native invasive shrubs is easier this time of year since they generally stay green longer than their native counterparts. These activities are a great way to enjoy time outdoors in the beautiful autumn weather while restoring unique prairies and wetlands.

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

Workday dates, locations (counties) and times include:

• Saturday, Oct. 22: Belle Isle State Park (Wayne), 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• Sunday, Oct. 26: Algonac State Park (St. Clair), 10 a.m. to 1 p.m..
• Saturday, Oct. 29: Waterloo Recreation Area (Jackson), 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• Sunday, Oct. 30: Island Lake Recreation Area (Livingston), 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Volunteers help remove invasive species at Belle Isle Park.
Volunteer efforts at these workdays are critical in helping
to protect Michigan's natural areas. (DNR photo)

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 the 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.

All volunteers are asked to register using the form available on the DNR website or via email. Any questions should be directed to Echo Prafke-Marson at 517-719-2285 orprafkemarsone@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 atwww.michigan.gov/dnrvolunteers and clicking on the Calendar of Volunteer Stewardship Workdays.