Volunteers needed in October for stewardship in southwestern Michigan

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources recently announced the October schedule of volunteer stewardship workdays at state parks in southwest Michigan.

Volunteers are needed to cut invasive, non-native shrubs like autumn olive, multi-flora rose and others, as well as collect seeds from native prairie plants at Fort Custer Recreation Area. These activities are a great way to enjoy the fall weather and time outdoors while restoring high-quality, unique ecosystems and learning more about them.

No experience is necessary, and training and equipment are provided. 

Workday dates, locations (counties) and times include:

• Saturday, Oct. 8: Fort Custer Recreation Area (Kalamazoo), 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• Saturday, Oct. 15: Muskegon State Park (Muskegon), 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• Sunday, Oct. 16: Fort Custer Recreation Area (Kalamazoo), 1 to 4 p.m.
• Saturday, Oct. 22: Fort Custer Recreation Area (Kalamazoo), 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• Sunday, Oct. 23: Yankee Springs Recreation Area (Barry), 1 to 4 p.m.
• Saturday, Oct. 29: Fort Custer Recreation Area (Kalamazoo), 10 a.m. to 1 p.m

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 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 at517-202-1360 orfreih@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 by going to www.michigan.gov/dnrvolunteers and clicking on Calendar of Volunteer Stewardship Workdays under Restore & Clean Up.