Published March 5, 2024
Just 3 hours can make a difference this Earth Day
Celebrate Earth Day by protecting and cleaning the region’s parks and waterways during Five Rivers MetroParks’ 36th annual Adopt-A-Park.
From 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, April 20, hundreds of volunteers from across the region will come together to spruce up these green spaces to prepare the parks for the warm weather months. Registration is required and available online at metroparks.org/adopt.
Volunteers of all ages, accessibility levels and backgrounds will tackle 22 projects at 16 different MetroParks locations. Projects will include litter pick up, invasive species removal, tree planting, garden maintenance, and more. These projects will improve the environment and beautify the region’s natural areas.
“It’s the perfect occasion for folks to welcome spring by spending a day outdoors with their friends or family giving back to the environment,” said Jenny Hymans, MetroParks volunteer services manager.
Volunteers will be provided with project supplies and gloves. Participants should bring a reusable water bottle and wear weather-appropriate clothing. All participants will receive a light snack and a small gift of appreciation for volunteering.
Groups are encouraged to register early to ensure space at available sites.
A limited number of Adopt-A-Park Service Kits – pre-assembled kits for participants to safely clean greenspaces on their own time – will be offered to groups of volunteers who wish to take on their own local litter removal projects. To learn more and request a kit, visit metroparks.org/adopt.
In 2023, more than 252 pounds of landfill litter was cleared from area greenspace parks. Additionally, 100 pounds of recycled materials were collected and diverted from the landfill.
“Volunteers are critical to helping MetroParks meet its mission to protect the region’s natural heritage and provide outdoor experiences that inspire a personal connection with nature,” said Hymans. “We have so many opportunities beyond Adopt-A-Park for people to explore, too, it’s a great way to make friends, learn new skills, and spend time outside.”
Learn more about MetroParks’ volunteer opportunities at metroparks.org/volunteer.
Adopt-A-Park is sponsored by Montgomery County Environmental Services, Keep Montgomery County Beautiful and QEI Engineers.
