Description
Take a few steps into Pioneer Woods on one of the numerous trails and you're into the hilly terrain and woodlands typical of the Palos Preserves. Restoration activities focus on the removal of invasive plants species like honeysuckle and barberry. Collection and distribution of seeds may also be done in season. Main tools used are loppers and hand saws. Weather permitting, we may build and burn brush piles.
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!
Frequency:
Saturday: Mornings
Location
10198 W 107th St
Willow Springs IL, 60480
Meet at Pioneer Woods parking lot, on the north side of 107th Street about a half-mile west of La Grange Road (Route 45). We normally park at the far end of the parking lot, up the hill and around several curves.
Contact Info
Contact person for opportunity
Contact person:
Regional Steward Joe Neumann
restorepalos@gmail.com
(773) 434-1415
Secondary contact:
Jan Pietrzak
janaugust@sbcglobal.net
708-439-1767
Website:
https://www.restorepalos.com/
Requirements & Documents
Requirements
ARequirements
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.
