Go green by protecting and cleaning green spaces in honor of Earth Day: Join Five Rivers MetroParks’ 27th annual Adopt-A-Park event from 9 to 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, April 19. Register online by April 7 at www.metroparks.org/adopt.
A diverse crew of volunteers of all ages, accessibility levels and backgrounds join forces during this event to make our parks and river corridors healthier, more attractive and friendlier places to visit. Volunteers will participate in projects aimed at improving the environment at more than two dozen sites throughout the Dayton area.
Volunteers will receive a free T-shirt and lunch at RiverScape MetroPark, and project supplies will be provided. Groups are encouraged to register early to ensure space at available sites.
“With this year’s high water and snow, cleanup along our rivers and bikeways will be especially important,” said Kevin Kepler, volunteer services manager for Five Rivers MetroParks. “We’ve seen some incredible wildlife during past clean ups, including beavers, otters, red fox and numerous interesting birds. You never know what you’re going to come across.”
In addition to cleanup, volunteers will plant trees, prepare garden beds, remove invasive species and paint. This year’s Adopt-A-Park volunteers also will help with conservation efforts to restore our forests by checking on tree seedlings that have been planted in past years, repairing protective tubes and making sure the seedlings are growing as planned.
“Environmental stewardship is a top of priority at Five Rivers MetroParks,” Kepler said. “We do this work year-round to help protect our environment, and the Adopt-A-Park volunteers help us create cleaner parks and natural spaces. Plus, it’s a great way to get back outside after winter, celebrate Earth Day and welcome spring.”
In 2013, more than 2,000 people volunteered at 37 sites located throughout Montgomery County to remove trash and invasive species, maintain trails, and prepare garden beds. Roughly 28,000 pounds of litter and 300 tires were removed; 13,500 pounds of recyclable materials were collected; and 6,000 trees were planted.
ABOUT FIVE RIVERS METROPARKS
Celebrating 50 years of preserving green space and natural areas, Five Rivers MetroParks is a nationally renowned park system composed of natural area parks, gardens, high-quality river corridors, urban parks and a network of recreation trails. Five Rivers MetroParks protects the region’s natural heritage and provides outdoor experiences that inspire a personal connection with nature. Educational programs and recreational opportunities are offered year-round for all ages. To learn more about Five Rivers MetroParks, log onto www.metroparks.org or call
937-275-PARK.
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