Description
This old oxbow in the Chicago River's North Branch is a combination of low, wet prairie soils and slightly higher mesic prairie soils. A small open savanna lies northwest of Bunker Hill savanna. The mesic prairie had an abundance of Eurasion grasses, Queen Anne's lace, and tall goldenrod. With management, the more conservative prairie plants such as northern dropseed, stiff goldenrod, golden alexanders and big bluestem grass are returning. Join North Branch Restoration Project volunteers and enjoy a different view here.
Visit us on Facebook!
Youth under 18 must be accompanied by a legal parent/guardian or attend with a chaperoned organized youth group (school, scouts, church). Volunteers under age 18 must have their volunteer waiver signed by a parent or legal guardian.
Schedule
Unlimited Positions available!
Location
N Caldwell Ave & N Tonty Ave
Chicago IL, 60646
The parking lot entrance is on the west side of Caldwell between Devon and Touhy, just opposite Tonty Street. For Bunker Hill workdays, we meet in the first section of the parking lot. For Oxbow Prairie workdays, follow the drive until it turns north, then park along the west side.
If you are a GROUP of 10 or more, please contact the steward before signing your group up for a workday. It helps insure workdays that are safe and enjoyable for all. Thanks!
Contact Info
Contact person for opportunity
Contact person:
Mike Andrews
mike61950@aol.com
Secondary contact:
Cammy Fortuna
tonyandcammy11@gmail.com
Website:
https://www.northbranchrestoration.org/index.html
Requirements & Documents
Requirements
Requirements
All volunteers need to complete the volunteer agreement and waiver form in order to participate. Be prepared for variable weather, uneven terrain, standing and/or walking for two or more hours, working near a fire, and hazardous insects and plants. Youth under 18 must be accompanied by a legal parent/guardian or attend with a chaperoned organized youth group (school, scouts, church). Volunteers under age 18 must have their volunteer waiver signed by a parent or legal guardian.
What to Expect
Stewardship volunteers help to restore natural habitat by performing seasonal restoration tasks. The work may include removing weeds and invasive vegetation, cutting and burning invasive woody plants, collecting and spreading native seed, and collecting trash. These tasks may incorporate the use of tools, including hand saws, loppers, pruning shears, trowels, shovels, rakes, and other hand tools (manual). All necessary tools, supplies, gloves, and training will be provided.
Safety
While we strive to create the safest environment possible, it is impossible to eliminate all potential hazards when working outside in nature. Volunteers are advised to wear long pants, sturdy closed-toe shoes and other seasonally appropriate clothing that can get dirty. Bring a water bottle. Hazards may include stinging or biting insects, poison ivy, walking on uneven terrain, a fire to burn cut brush, and inclement weather.
All individuals should consider their level of risk for the COVID-19 virus prior to engaging in any volunteer service. Review the Forest Preserve's COVID-19 page each day before volunteering for important updates and safety precautions. DO NOT attempt to volunteer if in the last 14 days you: 1. have any of the symptoms related to COVID-19 as identified by the Centers for Disease Control 2. have traveled to any foreign country or states with a high incidence of COVID-19 infections.
