Please join us for one of these free events! Drop-ins are welcome, but it’s best if you email or call Ben VanderWeide in advance (bvanderweide@oaklandtownship.org, 248-651-7810 ext. 401). If you RSVP you will receive information about last minute changes or cancellations. You can also use the form at the bottom of the page to RSVP.
If you’d like to volunteer, but these days don’t work for you, consider getting involved in our volunteer programs for nest box monitoring, vernal pool monitoring, prescribed fire, native gardens, and more! Email Ben VanderWeide, bvanderweide@oaklandtownship.org.
Fall Seed Collecting and Cleaning
Many native plant seeds are only available for collecting for a few weeks in the fall, so we need as much help as possible during harvest! Seed collecting is a fun, relaxing way to learn new native plant species while experiencing unique natural areas. We use the seed to restore areas where we have removed invasive plants. All workdays are 12:30 – 3:30 pm.
- Seed Collecting. Meet at the Paint Creek Cider Mill, 4480 Orion Rd, before heading to our site for the day. October 8, 17, 24 & 31 from 12:30 pm to 3:30 pm.
- Seed Cleaning. Meet at Watershed Ridge Park, 1720 W. Buell Rd. December 3 from 12:30 pm to 3:30 pm.
Invasive Shrub Workdays
October 18, November 12 and 19, 9 am to 12 pm
- October 18 – Bear Creek Nature Park, 740 W. Snell Rd. We will be partnering with Six Rivers Land Conservancy to remove invasive shrubs such as buckthorn and autumn olive to help native species thrive in the northern marsh at Bear Creek Nature Park.
- November 12 and 19 – Paint Creek Heritage Area Wet Prairie. Meet at the Silverbell Rd parking lot along the Paint Creek Trail, approximately 1103 Silverbell Rd. We will be removing invasive shrubs from this high quality natural area.
Wear solid boots, long pants, and a long-sleeved shirt and bring water and a snack. Tools and training will be provided. All workdays are 9 am to 12 pm.
What to Bring
Please remember to wear long pants and closed-toe shoes suitable for uneven terrain. Please dress for the weather and bring gloves if you have them. We provide tools, light snacks, water, and know-how. All minors must have a waiver signed by a guardian, and minors under 14 must be accompanied by a guardian.
Volunteers Needed! Would you like to learn new skills, work with a great team, and get more involved in local conservation? Our natural areas stewardship volunteers help with bluebird nest box monitoring, native seed collecting, prescribed fire, invasive species control, photo monitoring, pollinator garden maintenance, outreach, and more! We fit opportunities to your availability and interests. No special skills required. We’ll provide all training and tool you’ll need. To learn more contact Natural Areas Stewardship Manager Ben VanderWeide (bvanderweide@oaklandtownship.org).
