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Mill Creek runs through the eastern, lowland portion of McClaughrey Springs. To the west are densely wooded ridges and ravines. The preserve is a popular destination for hikers and birders. Restoration activities focus on the removal of invasive species like honeysuckle and buckthorn, and the collection and distribution of seeds of desirable native 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.
Schedule Slots Available!
1 Dec 2024
Stewardship Volunteer Days
Meeting Place: Front of Lot east side of Kean Ave, just south of Rte 83/CalSag Rd. This is also north of 119th & east of Rte 45/LaGrange Rd.
Contact: Diana Krug
Phone: (312) 504-6473
9:00 am - 12:00 pm
Sign Up Individual Sign Up Group
5 Jan 2025
2 Feb 2025
Meet at Palos Parks Woods North parking lot, on the east side of Kean Avenue about a block south of Route 83.
Contact person for opportunity
Contact person: McClaughrey Springs Steward Diana Krug restorepalos@gmail.com
Secondary contact: Jan Pietrzak janaugust@sbcglobal.net 708-439-1767
Website:https://www.restorepalos.com/
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.
