Protect and clean green spaces in honor of Earth Day during Five Rivers MetroParks’ 30th annual Adopt-a-Park from 9 to 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, April 22. Register online by Monday, April 7, at www.metroparks.org/adopt. Groups are encouraged to register early to ensure space at available sites.
A diverse crew of volunteers of all ages, accessibility levels and backgrounds join forces during Adopt-a-Park to make parks and river corridors healthier, more attractive and friendlier places to visit. At more than two dozen sites throughout the Dayton area, volunteers will participate in projects aimed at improving the environment.
Volunteers will receive a free T-shirt and lunch at RiverScape MetroPark, and project supplies will be provided.
In 2016, almost 2,000 people volunteered at 50 sites to remove trash and invasive species, maintain trails, and prepare garden beds. Roughly 47,000 pounds of litter and 486 tires were removed, 31 miles of rivers were cleaned, and 3,500 trees were planted.
In addition to cleanup, volunteers will plant trees, prepare garden beds, remove invasive species and paint. Adopt-a-Park volunteers also will help with conservation efforts to restore local forests by checking on tree seedlings that were planted in past years, repairing protective tubes and making sure the seedlings are growing as planned.
“One of Five Rivers MetroParks’ priorities is protecting the region’s natural heritage year-round,” said Kevin Kepler volunteer services manager for Five Rivers MetroParks. “Residents value clean parks and natural spaces, and Adopt-a-Park is the perfect occasion for the community to come together and celebrate all the amazing natural resources in Montgomery County with a day of service.”
Gloves and trash bags will be provided. Participants should bring water and wear weather-appropriate clothing.
“So much is accomplished during Adopt-a-Park, and we wouldn’t be able to tackle these projects without volunteers,” Kepler said. “We want participants to have a fun, fulfilling experience with their families, friends and co-workers, and keep returning to their favorite park or facility with a sense of pride that lasts all year long.”
Adopt-a-Park 2017 is supported by DP&L, Vectren and Barrett Paving Materials Inc.
ABOUT FIVE RIVERS METROPARKS
Celebrating more than 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. Five Rivers MetroParks is accredited by the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies. To learn more about Five Rivers MetroParks, log onto www.metroparks.org or call 937-275-PARK (7275).