Please come out and join us for one of these free events!
How do I sign up to volunteer?
Pre-registration through
VolunteerHub is encouraged for workdays, so we can be as prepared as possible. Links to to register are in each event listed below, or go directly to our VolunteerHub page.
What if I have a large group?
If you have a large group (more than five people) interested in attending a volunteer workday, please contact our
Workday Coordinator at least two weeks in advance of the event.
- Wear
LONG SLEEVES, LONG PANTS,
TALL SOCKS, and closed-toe
SHOES OR BOOTS.
-
Dress for the weather – layers recommended.
- Bring a water bottle.
Nature happens, so please be aware of hazards:
- Natural areas may have thorns, poison ivy, ticks, and mosquitoes.
- Work locations may be in full sun or have minimal shade.
- Conditions in the park may be snowy or muddy.
- Terrain may be hilly or steep.
March 2024
Stewardship Workday for UN International Day of ForestsHansen Nature AreaSaturday, March 169 a.m. – noonDo your part to protect our watershed and natural habitats by celebrating
the UN's International Day of Forests with NAP. The United Nation's Department of Economic and Social Affairs reports, “it is estimated that 75% of the world's accessible freshwater comes from forested watersheds and 80% of all land-based species depend on forests for their habitat. When forests are healthy, they can act as protective buffers against the impacts of storms and other natural hazards."
Meet in the
Grace Bible Church additional parking lot at 1300 South Maple Rd, 1/3 mile south of West Liberty. Volunteers will use hand tools to cut small-to-medium shrubs. Workday sites have unpaved trails and require going off-trail. Preregister through
VolunteerHub so NAP can plan on enough staff and supplies for a
safe and successful event. For your safety, wear long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes. All minors should be accompanied by a guardian. More information:
How to prepare for a NAP workday (PDF).
Stewardship Workday for UN International Day of ForestsBluffs Nature AreaSunday, March 171-4 p.m.From The United Nation's Department of Economic and Social Affairs: “Forests make our lives better in countless ways. They sustain us – from clean air and water, to food and fuel, to medicines and income. Being near trees helps boost our immune systems, lower blood pressure, reduce stress, and improve mood. When forests are healthy and well-managed they safeguard the health of our planet, by mitigating climate change, protecting biodiversity, and building resilience to natural disasters." In honor of
the UN's International Day of Forests, help NAP manage Ann Arbor's forests to keep them healthy for generations to come.
Meet at
the park entrance on Orkney Dr. Volunteers will use hand tools to cut small-to-medium shrubs. Workday sites have unpaved trails and require going off-trail. Preregister through
VolunteerHub so NAP can plan on enough staff and supplies for a
safe and successful event. For your safety, wear long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes. All minors should be accompanied by a guardian. More information:
How to prepare for a NAP workday (PDF).
Diversity in the Outdoors Speaker SeriesSunday, March 173-5 p.m.Cobblestone Farm, 2781 Packard St, Ann Arbor, MI 48108Accessible by bus line 24Detroiter Zwena Gray will be at Cobblestone Farm for a talk on 'Black on the Bruce', her experience hiking the Bruce Trail as a Black woman. After the talk, join Zwena and NAP across Packard for a
Queer Ecology Hike at Mary Beth Doyle Park. Preregister through
VolunteerHub. Meet at
the barn at Cobblestone Farm, 2781 Packard St, Ann Arbor. Dress for the weather and a hike in the woods. All minors should be accompanied by a guardian.
Weekday Stewardship Workday for UN World Water DayBandemer Nature AreaFriday, March 221-4 p.m.You can make a difference for the global water cycle on World Water Day! Wetlands do so much, like controlling sediment, pollution, and erosion. They are also nature’s own flood mitigation program. The wet meadow at Bandemer contributes to the health of the Huron River and its watershed, which everyone in Ann Arbor depends on. Our watershed a small but mighty part of the global water cycle, help NAP protect it.
Meet at
the parking lot at the end of Lake Shore Drive, off Main Street. Volunteers will use hand tools to cut small-to-medium shrubs. Workday sites have unpaved trails and require going off-trail. Preregister through
VolunteerHub so NAP can plan on enough staff and supplies for a
safe and successful event. For your safety, wear long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes. All minors should be accompanied by a guardian. More information:
How to prepare for a NAP workday (PDF).
Stewardship Workday for UN World Water DayFurstenberg Nature AreaSaturday, March 231-4 p.m.Furstenberg Nature Area stretches along the Huron River, and the natural communities in the park play essential roles in the health of the river – and in turn, the Huron River watershed. Freshwater ecosystems are facing devastation globally, and communities that depend on fresh water (that’s everyone!) are in danger of losing this precious resource. World Water Day calls on us to protect the global water cycle and you can help by joining NAP at Furstenberg.
Meet at
the parking lot off Fuller Rd. Volunteers will use hand tools to cut small-to-medium shrubs. Workday sites have unpaved trails and require going off-trail. Preregister through
VolunteerHub so NAP can plan on enough staff and supplies for a
safe and successful event. For your safety, wear long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes. All minors should be accompanied by a guardian. More information:
How to prepare for a NAP workday (PDF).
Nest Box Monitor TrainingSaturday, March 3010 a.m.-noon This new Community Science program monitors bird nest boxes in Ann Arbor's parks. Volunteers keep track of which species are nesting in park boxes and check on the health of the nest and nestlings. Nest box monitors also help keep invasive House Sparrows from breeding in the parks by removing House Sparrow nests and possibly their eggs. Training is provided on nest identification, cavity nesting birds like Bluebirds, how NAP monitors nest boxes, and how to remove House Sparrow nests if necessary.
Preregister through VolunteerHub.
Monitoring nest box sites requires walking on unpaved trails, going off trail, and some sites only offer street parking. For more information contact [email protected].
April 2024
K-5 Forest Fridays
Watching for Waterfowl
Friday, April 5
4:30-6 p.m.
Gallup Park Meeting Room
Look for waterfowl along the Huron River including ducks, geese and swans. There may even be some birds migrating through!
For K-5 students accompanied by an adult. Please dress to be prepared for all weather. Binoculars will be provided for kids, but feel free to bring your own! Preregistration through VolunteerHub is required. NAP uses VolunteerHub to manage participant waivers – please create individual accounts for each child. (Adults can use their own email address for child accounts). Feel free to call NAP for assistance, 734.794.6627.
Diversity in the Outdoors
Persian Picnic Party
Saturday, April 6
Noon-2 p.m.
County Farm Park
2230 Platt Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Learn about the history of Nowruz! Nowruz literally means “new day" in and is celebrated as the beginning of the new year by more than 300 million people all around the world. Nowruz begins on the vernal equinox (this year, March 21), and in the Persian tradition, the 13th and final day of festivities marks The Persian New Year, and Persian Nature Day! On this last day of celebrations, everyone goes outside to share a picnic with family and friends and enjoy nature together.
There will be a short presentation and then we will enjoy a picnic together in one of the County Farm Park Pavilions. Please bring your own meal, and blanket if you'd like to eat on the grass. Water and restrooms available.
Stewardship Workday
Braun Nature Area
Sunday, April 7
1-4 p.m.
Malletts Creek runs through Braun Nature Area on its way to South Pond and the Huron River. The Huron River Watershed Council describes the Mallets creekshed as having less than 8% natural lands! Braun's natural areas protect the creek – and the Huron River – from the negative effects of stormwater runoff like excess phosphorus and other pollutants. Volunteer to remove exotic plants with NAP and help native plants thrive so they can soak up #rainwater and #runoff, filter pollutants, and provide wildlife habitat.
Meet at the park entrance on Chalmers Dr. Depending on the weather, volunteers will use hand tools to cut small-to-medium shrubs or pull herbaceous weeds from the ground. Workday sites have unpaved trails and require going off-trail. Preregister through VolunteerHub so NAP can plan on enough staff and supplies for a safe and successful event. For your safety, wear long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes. All minors should be accompanied by a guardian. More information: How to prepare for a NAP workday (PDF).
K-5 Nature Crafts
Build a Wildflower
Wednesday, April 10
3:00-4:30 p.m.
Burns Park
Learn about local wildflowers! Take a hike to find them in the park, then use natural materials to build your own flower! Remember to wear your closed-toe shoes and long pants!
Meet at the Burns Park shelter. For K-5 students accompanied by an adult. Please dress to be prepared for all weather. Preregistration through VolunteerHub is required. NAP uses VolunteerHub to manage participant waivers – please create individual accounts for each child. (Adults can use their own email address for child accounts). Feel free to call NAP for assistance, 734.794.6627.
Stewardship Workday
Folkstone Park
Saturday, April 13
9 a.m.-noon
The undeveloped area that comprises Folkstone Park was set aside by developers as the surrounding area was being built up with housing. Fairly wet and heavily wooded, we can be thankful that it was unattractive for development. Despite being disturbed by the installation of utilities, this little haven still holds valuable habitat for wildlife and provides a bit of nature for neighbors. Join NAP for a morning in the woods to remove exotic plants that don't serve the remaining #naturalcommunities.
Meet at the park entrance at the north end of Folkstone Ct. Depending on the weather, volunteers will use hand tools to cut small-to-medium shrubs, and pull herbaceous weeds from the ground. Workday sites have unpaved trails and require going off-trail. Preregister through VolunteerHub so NAP can plan on enough staff and supplies for a safe and successful event. For your safety, wear long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes. All minors should be accompanied by a guardian. More information: How to prepare for a NAP workday (PDF).
Stewardship Workday
Riverwood Nature Area
Sunday, April 14
1-4 p.m.
It's a somewhat small park at fewer than 5 acres, and it lies between residential areas and M-14, so how much nature can be found at Riverwood? A beautiful display of blossoms from spring to fall, a collection of mature native trees, and wildlife that enjoy the habitat they provide. Controlled burns are one of the management tools NAP engages to keep this spot healthy, along with work from volunteers like you removing #invasiveplants.
Meet at the park sign on Riverwood Dr, just west of Newport Rd. Depending on the weather, volunteers will use hand tools to cut small-to-medium shrubs, and pull herbaceous weeds from the ground. Workday sites have unpaved trails and require going off-trail. Preregister through VolunteerHub so NAP can plan on enough staff and supplies for a safe and successful event. For your safety, wear long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes. All minors should be accompanied by a guardian. More information: How to prepare for a NAP workday (PDF).
Stewardship Workday
Earth Day
Bird Hills Nature Area
Saturday, April 20
9 a.m.-noon
Bird Hills Nature Area was the site of NAP's first workday in 1994 and work there continues to keep the 146 acres healthy. The hilly terrain features several different plant communities. Join the effort in honor of #EarthDay2024 to restore this previously logged and farmed woodland by removing invasive species such as garlic mustard. Hardcore volunteers can stick around for the double-header event in the afternoon!
Meet at the entrance on Bird Road, west of Huron River Drive (add'l parking in Barton Nature Area-Dam Entrance). Volunteers will pull invasive weeds from the ground by hand. Workday sites have unpaved trails and require going off-trail. Preregister through VolunteerHub so NAP can plan on enough staff and supplies for a safe and successful event. For your safety, wear long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes. All minors should be accompanied by a guardian. More information: How to prepare for a NAP workday (PDF).
Stewardship Workday
Earth Day
Bird Hills Nature Area
Saturday, April 20
1-4 p.m.
Join nature lovers, volunteering enthusiasts, and hardcore Bird Hills fans for the second of two work events today! In honor of #EarthDay2024, NAP is hosting a double-header at the largest natural area in the parks system. The wildlife and native plants at this quiet oasis will be well on their way to thriving after volunteers remove invasive plants like dames rocket.
Meet at the entrance on Bird Road, west of Huron River Drive (add'l parking in Barton Nature Area-Dam Entrance). Volunteers will pull invasive weeds from the ground by hand. Workday sites have unpaved trails and require going off-trail. Preregister through VolunteerHub so NAP can plan on enough staff and supplies for a safe and successful event. For your safety, wear long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes. All minors should be accompanied by a guardian. More information: How to prepare for a NAP workday (PDF).
Turtle Steward Kickoff & Training
Saturday, April 20
1:30-3:30 p.m.
Help NAP search for turtles and maintain nesting habitat! At least 6 species of turtles live and nest in the city, maybe more! Help us maintain and protect nest sites, monitor populations, and look for turtles in habitats along the Huron River and nearby waters! We'll help you learn species identification, nest maintenance and monitoring, and how to report your turtle observations. And yes, you can survey for turtles while paddling down the river on a sunny morning!
Register through VolunteerHub. Open to anyone who can look for turtles. Suitable for families. Surveys can be done from the water. This training will also be recorded.
Stewardship Workday
Earth Day
Mary Beth Doyle Park
Sunday, April 21
9 a.m.-noon
It's another #EarthDay at Mary Beth Doyle Park! NAP will be out this morning to celebrate nature and all its wonders while putting in the work to help protect the natural oasis that is Mary Beth Doyle Park. Join other volunteers in the forest to pull invasive weeds to make way for the explosion of native spring wildflowers and honor the planet that gives them to us.
Meet at the corner of Butternut St and Cardinal Ave. Volunteers will pull invasive weeds from the ground by hand. Workday sites have unpaved trails and require going off-trail. Preregister through VolunteerHub so NAP can plan on enough staff and supplies for a safe and successful event. For your safety, wear long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes. All minors should be accompanied by a guardian. More information: How to prepare for a NAP workday (PDF).
Stewardship Workday
Earth Day
Cedar Bend Nature Area
Sunday, April 21
1-4 p.m.
The #EarthDay2024 celebration continues at Ann Arbor's oldest park! The Ann Arbor community has enjoyed this “natureful" public resource since 1900, and it's our job to make sure it stays vibrant and thriving. Alongside other volunteers, you can show your commitment to the health of the global ecosystem by removing invasive weeds by hand.
Meet us at the Island Park parking lot, at the end of Island Drive. Volunteers will pull invasive weeds from the ground by hand. Workday sites have unpaved trails and require going off-trail. Preregister through VolunteerHub so NAP can plan on enough staff and supplies for a safe and successful event. For your safety, wear long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes. All minors should be accompanied by a guardian. More information: How to prepare for a NAP workday (PDF).
Earth Day Celebration
Leslie Science and Nature Center
Sunday, April 21
This free, family-friendly event features displays from local environmental, nonprofit, and governmental organizations. For more information please visit www.lesliesnc.org/a2earthday.
Weekday Stewardship Workday
Lakewood Nature Area
Friday, April 26
1-4 p.m.
Another Friday afternoon of volunteering, this time at Lakewood Nature Area! Got some time to give to nature at the end of your week? The #nativeplants and wildlife at Lakewood would love to have your help. These 7 acres will be host to a lovely display of native wildflowers (they may be already popping up!) as long as you and other volunteers show up to make space by removing invasive weeds like dames rocket.
Meet at the park entrance on Sunnywood Dr. Volunteers will pull invasive weeds from the ground by hand. Workday sites have unpaved trails and require going off-trail. Preregister through VolunteerHub so NAP can plan on enough staff and supplies for a safe and successful event. For your safety, wear long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes. All minors should be accompanied by a guardian. More information: How to prepare for a NAP workday (PDF).
Stewardship Workday
Global Youth Service Days
Argo Nature Area
Saturday, April 27
9 a.m.-noon
Bring your young family members and friends out to volunteer for this #GlobalYouthServiceDays event at Argo Nature Area! This volunteer opportunity is for all ages, especially the young-at-heart. NAP will be at this beautiful riverside natural area removing invasive weeds by hand. This action directly impacts the natural habitat for native wildlife and supports the health of the Huron River.
Meet on Longshore Dr at Amherst Ave. Volunteers will pull invasive weeds from the ground by hand. Workday sites have unpaved trails and require going off-trail. Preregister through VolunteerHub so NAP can plan on enough staff and supplies for a safe and successful event. For your safety, wear long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes. All minors should be accompanied by a guardian. More information: How to prepare for a NAP workday (PDF).
Stewardship Workday
Global Youth Service Days
Huron Hills Golf Course Woods
Saturday, April 27
1-4 p.m.
Everyone is welcome to join NAP for environmental service during Global Youth Service Days! Spend some time in the woods with other members of the community called to serve, and help NAP remove invasive weeds. Exotic plants take up the space and nutrients that native plants need to provide habitat for wildlife. #GYSD is a great time to help your local ecosystem.
Meet on Hunting Valley off Provincial Dr Volunteers will pull invasive weeds from the ground by hand. Workday sites have unpaved trails and require going off-trail. Preregister through VolunteerHub so NAP can plan on enough staff and supplies for a safe and successful event. For your safety, wear long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes. All minors should be accompanied by a guardian. More information: How to prepare for a NAP workday (PDF).
May 2024
Breeding Bird Survey Kickoff
Thursday, May 2
7-9 p.m.
Learn how to put your birding skills to use and survey for breeding birds in Ann Arbor's parks! Volunteer to help NAP with Ann Arbor's Breeding Bird Survey. Learn how NAP uses eBird to record survey results, sign up to survey your favorite park, hear about last year's survey, and access the survey materials. Note that experience in bird identification is necessary, and you must be able to identify birds by sight and sound to participate in this survey. This training will also be recorded. Register through VolunteerHub.
K-5 Forest Fridays
Searching for Salamanders
Friday, May 3
4:30-6 p.m.
Bird Hills Nature Area
Learn about native salamanders, what they're up to in spring, and then go for a one-mile hike to try to find some!
Meet at the Newport Rd parking lot entrance, just north of M-14. For K-5 students accompanied by an adult. Please dress to be prepared for weather. Preregistration through VolunteerHub is required. NAP uses VolunteerHub to manage participant waivers – please create individual accounts for each child. (Adults can use their own email address for child accounts). Feel free to call NAP for assistance, 734.794.6627.
Stewardship Workday
Sunset Brooks Nature Area
Sunday, May 5
9 a.m.-noon
Wildflowers are picking up speed this time of year at parks like Sunset Brooks. This means a lovely morning for volunteers in this 8-acre oak-hickory woodland (with a prairie to boot)! Pulling invasive weeds with NAP will be easy and rewarding and have lasting effects for the local ecosystem.
Meet at the park entrance on Sunset Rd, at the end of Brooks St. Volunteers will pull invasive weeds from the ground by hand. Workday sites have unpaved trails and require going off-trail. Preregister through VolunteerHub so NAP can plan on enough staff and supplies for a safe and successful event. For your safety, wear long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes. All minors should be accompanied by a guardian. More information: How to prepare for a NAP workday (PDF).
Stewardship Workday
Miller Nature Area
Sunday, May 5
1-4 p.m.
If you've been a fan of Miller Park for even a few years, you'll know how much work is done there year after year to improve the health and habitat. And if you're really paying attention, you'll know the friendly (if determined) faces of the Park Stewards who are performing these feats of conservation. Lend a hand to these fierce defenders of Miller Park's nature and help remove invasive weeds.
Meet at the Arborview Blvd entrance, just east of Wildwood Ave. Volunteers will pull invasive weeds from the ground by hand. Workday sites have unpaved trails and require going off-trail. Preregister through VolunteerHub so NAP can plan on enough staff and supplies for a safe and successful event. For your safety, wear long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes. All minors should be accompanied by a guardian. More information: How to prepare for a NAP workday (PDF).
Stewardship Workday
World Migratory Bird Day
Marshall Nature Area
Saturday, May 11
9 a.m.-noon
This #MigratoryBirdDay, let's give bugs a chance! Migratory birds depend on insects for energy during the breeding season and on their long journeys. Natural areas that migratory birds have depended on for mid-journey food are being transformed into agriculture, housing developments, and even parking lots. Give migratory birds a chance to complete their cross-continent expedition by supporting insect habitat.
Meet at the parking lot off Dixboro Rd. (additional parking on Church St, across Dixboro). Volunteers will pull invasive weeds from the ground by hand. Workday sites have unpaved trails and require going off-trail. Preregister through VolunteerHub so NAP can plan on enough staff and supplies for a safe and successful event. For your safety, wear long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes. All minors should be accompanied by a guardian. More information: How to prepare for a NAP workday (PDF).
Stewardship Workday
World Migratory Bird Day
Huron Parkway Nature Area
Saturday, May 11
1-4 p.m.
Why highlight the connection between birds and insects on #MigratoryBirdDay? If you're a bird, you're thinking, “I eat them to stay alive and give me energy to migrate across the world!" If you're a farmer, land manager, homeowner, or backpacker, you're thinking, “I need birds to help control insect pests!" And if you're an insect, well, thank you for your service—we literally could not survive without you. If you're a volunteer, come celebrate birds and bugs by pulling invasive weeds for a Saturday afternoon!
Meet at the Park Steward's house—3470 Woodland Rd, off East Huron River Dr. Volunteers will pull invasive weeds from the ground by hand. Workday sites have unpaved trails and require going off-trail. Preregister through VolunteerHub so NAP can plan on enough staff and supplies for a safe and successful event. For your safety, wear long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes. All minors should be accompanied by a guardian. More information: How to prepare for a NAP workday (PDF).
Stewardship Workday
Molin Nature Area
Sunday, May 12
9 a.m.-noon
“Springtime. As the view from the window is getting greener and greener, my heart is getting stronger and stronger." Let this lyric from Yoko Ono bring you out to strengthen your heart through conservation. A spring morning at Molin Nature Area with NAP offers fresh air, greening nature, and rewarding work supporting natural habitat.
Meet at the corner of Powell Rd and Columbia Ave. Volunteers will pull invasive weeds from the ground by hand. Workday sites have unpaved trails and require going off-trail. Preregister through VolunteerHub so NAP can plan on enough staff and supplies for a safe and successful event. For your safety, wear long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes. All minors should be accompanied by a guardian. More information: How to prepare for a NAP workday (PDF).
Stewardship Workday
Berkshire Creek Nature Area
Sunday, May 12
1-4 p.m.
This nature area does a lot for the health of the Malletts Creekshed and the Huron River Watershed. The rocks and native plants that makeup the natural shoreline along the creek help control stormwater runoff. Stormwater runoff is a big deal - pollution, flooding, and sediments are all threats to clean water for humans and wildlife alike. Help keep the watershed flowing by making space and freeing up nutrients for native plants.
Meet at Exmoor Rd, just past Stonehaven St. Volunteers will pull invasive weeds from the ground by hand. Workday sites have unpaved trails and require going off-trail. Preregister through VolunteerHub so NAP can plan on enough staff and supplies for a safe and successful event. For your safety, wear long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes. All minors should be accompanied by a guardian. More information: How to prepare for a NAP workday (PDF).
K-5 Nature Crafts
Build a Dragonfly
Wednesday, May 15
3:00-4:30 p.m.
Island Park Shelter A
Learn about Michigan dragonflies and damselflies! Take a hike to find them in the park, then use natural materials to build your own! Remember to wear your closed-toe shoes and long pants!
Meet at Island Park Shelter A, the first shelter you'll see when arriving at the park. For K-5 students accompanied by an adult. Please dress to be prepared for all weather. Binoculars will be provided for kids, but feel free to bring your own! Preregistration through VolunteerHub is required. NAP uses VolunteerHub to manage participant waivers – please create individual accounts for each child. (Adults can use their own email address for child accounts). Feel free to call NAP for assistance, 734.794.6627.
Stewardship Workday
Endangered Species Day
Narrow Gauge Way
Saturday, May 18
9 a.m.-noon
If you're ready to “walk the walk" and directly help #EndangeredSpecies, come out for a morning of habitat conservation at Narrow Gauge Way! Exotic plants can take space and nutrients from the native plants our wildlife depend on for food, shelter, and breeding. Join other volunteers and NAP staff for #EndangeredSpeciesDay to remove invasive weeds.
Meet at the corner of Narrow Gauge Way and Watershed Dr. Volunteers will pull invasive weeds from the ground by hand. Workday sites have unpaved trails and require going off-trail. Preregister through VolunteerHub so NAP can plan on enough staff and supplies for a safe and successful event. For your safety, wear long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes. All minors should be accompanied by a guardian. More information: How to prepare for a NAP workday (PDF).
Stewardship Workday
Endangered Species Day
Ruthven Nature Area
Saturday, May 18
1-4 p.m.
The Michigan DNR points out, “many threatened and endangered species rely on high-quality natural areas that benefit all of us by providing clean water, clean air and places for us to enjoy nature. When species are struggling, it can indicate declines in the functioning of those natural areas, which in turn can impact our quality of life." Join NAP for #EndangeredSpeciesDay to protect natural habitat!
Meet at the park entrance off Huron Parkway. If driving: park at the Gallup Boat Dock parking lot, then follow the park path and use the crosswalk to get to the Ruthven Huron Parkway entrance (look for the NAP truck). Volunteers will pull invasive weeds from the ground by hand. Workday sites have unpaved trails and require going off-trail. Preregister through VolunteerHub so NAP can plan on enough staff and supplies for a safe and successful event. For your safety, wear long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes. All minors should be accompanied by a guardian. More information: How to prepare for a NAP workday (PDF).
Stewardship Workday
International Day for Biological Diversity
Black Pond Woods
Sunday, May 19
9 a.m.-noon
Celebrate and protect Black Pond Woods for the UN #InternationalDayforBiodiversity! As the UN explains, “When human activities produce greenhouse gases, around half of the emissions remain in the atmosphere, while the other half is absorbed by the land and ocean. These ecosystems – and the biodiversity they contain – are natural carbon sinks, providing so-called nature-based solutions to climate change."
Meet at the park entrance on Tibbits Ct, off Pontiac Trail. Volunteers will pull invasive weeds from the ground by hand. Workday sites have unpaved trails and require going off-trail. Preregister through VolunteerHub so NAP can plan on enough staff and supplies for a safe and successful event. For your safety, wear long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes. All minors should be accompanied by a guardian. More information: How to prepare for a NAP workday (PDF).
Weekday Stewardship Workday
Bird Hills Nature Area
Friday, May 31
1-4 p.m.
Weekday conservationists, here's another Friday afternoon of removing invasive plants for you! Bring a friend or neighbor and close out the week (and the month!) with NAP amongst the beautiful blooming slopes at Bird Hills. You're sure to spy some lovely wildflowers (and make more space for them!) while pulling bittercress and Dame's rocket.
Meet at the Newport Rd parking lot entrance, just north of M-14. Volunteers will pull invasive weeds from the ground by hand. Workday sites have unpaved trails and require going off-trail. Preregister through VolunteerHub so NAP can plan on enough staff and supplies for a safe and successful event. For your safety, wear long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes. All minors should be accompanied by a guardian. More information: How to prepare for a NAP workday (PDF).
June 2024
Stewardship Workday
National Trails Day
Bird Hills Nature Area
Saturday, June 1
9 a.m.-noon
Celebrating #NationalTrailsDay with a public workday at Bird Hills is a NAP tradition! Volunteers have been showing up for Bird Hills since 1994 at NAP's very first public workday. And it's no surprise that one of Ann Arbor's most loved natural areas keeps bringing volunteers back year after year! Keep the stewardship tradition going and help improve the trails with NAP for National Trails Day.
Meet at the Newport Rd parking lot entrance, just north of M-14. Volunteers will perform trail maintenance by cutting back shrubs using hand pruners and loppers. Workday sites have unpaved trails and require going off-trail. Preregister through VolunteerHub so NAP can plan on enough staff and supplies for a safe and successful event. For your safety, wear long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes. All minors should be accompanied by a guardian. More information: How to prepare for a NAP workday (PDF).
Stewardship Workday
Bird Hills Nature Area
Saturday, June 1
1-4 p.m.
Pulling invasive weeds supports the natural habitat of insects and other invertebrates, which are one of the most important sources of energy for our furry and feathery, smooth and leathery, scaly and prickly friends! This will be two days in a row of volunteer events at Bird Hills and everyone is excited to see the transformation! Probably the most excited will be the wildlife of this nature area who benefit from the immense effort from volunteers.
Meet at the Newport Rd parking lot entrance, just north of M-14. Volunteers will pull invasive weeds from the ground by hand. Workday sites have unpaved trails and require going off-trail. Preregister through VolunteerHub so NAP can plan on enough staff and supplies for a safe and successful event. For your safety, wear long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes. All minors should be accompanied by a guardian. More information: How to prepare for a NAP workday (PDF).
Stewardship Workday
National Trails Day
Bluffs Nature Area
Sunday, June 2
1-4 p.m.
Calling all hiking enthusiasts (and anyone who likes a stroll or roll through nature) for a rewarding trail maintenance event on National Trails Day! No prior experience is necessary – just bring your enthusiasm and a willingness to get your hands dirty! Together, we'll enhance pathways for hikers, bikers, and outdoor lovers to explore and enjoy for years to come. Embrace the spirit of stewardship and adventure by signing up now to help build a better trail for all to enjoy!
Meet at the park entrance on Orkney Dr. Volunteers will perform trail maintenance by cutting back shrubs using hand pruners and loppers. Workday sites have unpaved trails and require going off-trail. Preregister through VolunteerHub so NAP can plan on enough staff and supplies for a safe and successful event. For your safety, wear long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes. All minors should be accompanied by a guardian. More information: How to prepare for a NAP workday (PDF).
Stewardship Workday
World Environment Day
Fuller Park
Saturday, June 8
9 a.m.-noon
Celebrate World Environment Day and take action with NAP! This invasive weed pulling event will help restore and protect our local natural habitats. This is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to environmental conservation efforts and learn more about the native flora and fauna. Join in a community of like-minded individuals committed to making a difference for our planet. Let's pull together to promote biodiversity and support a healthier ecosystem!
Meet at the Island Park parking lot, at the end of Island Dr. Volunteers will pull invasive weeds from the ground by hand. Workday sites have unpaved trails and require going off-trail. Preregister through VolunteerHub so NAP can plan on enough staff and supplies for a safe and successful event. For your safety, wear long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes. All minors should be accompanied by a guardian. More information: How to prepare for a NAP workday (PDF).
Stewardship Workday
Dolph Nature Area
Sunday, June 9
9 a.m.-noon
Help reclaim our native landscapes! Join this upcoming invasive weed pulling event and make a direct impact on preserving biodiversity in our community. No prior experience is necessary – just bring your enthusiasm and willingness to get your hands dirty. With other volunteers, work to eradicate harmful invasive species, allowing native plants to thrive and supporting a healthier ecosystem for all. Sign up today and be a part of the solution to protect our environment for future generations!
Meet at the trailhead off Parklake Ave, just south of Lakeview Dr. Volunteers will pull invasive weeds from the ground by hand. Workday sites have unpaved trails and require going off-trail. Preregister through VolunteerHub so NAP can plan on enough staff and supplies for a safe and successful event. For your safety, wear long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes. All minors should be accompanied by a guardian. More information: How to prepare for a NAP workday (PDF).
Stewardship Workday
Pollinator Week
Brokaw Nature Area
Saturday, June 22
9 a.m.-noon
Get involved this National Pollinator Week by volunteering for an invasive weed pulling event! This hands-on activity is one of NAP's tools for maintaining the health of our local ecosystem, providing a safer habitat for pollinators, and enhancing native plant life. No experience is needed, just a willingness to help and a love for the outdoors. Come make new friends, and take a stand for the environment and our pollinator pals!
Meet at the parking lot off West Huron River Dr, just southeast of Wagner Rd. Volunteers will pull invasive weeds from the ground by hand. Workday sites have unpaved trails and require going off-trail. Preregister through VolunteerHub so NAP can plan on enough staff and supplies for a safe and successful event. For your safety, wear long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes. All minors should be accompanied by a guardian. More information: How to prepare for a NAP workday (PDF).
Stewardship Workday
Pollinator Week
Olson Nature Area
Sunday, June 23
1-4 p.m.
Looking for a meaningful volunteering opportunity AND want to help our local ecosystem? Why not dedicate just a few hours of your time to preserving the natural habitat of essential pollinators like bees and butterflies? Whether you're a seasoned environmentalist or simply eager to make a positive impact, this event welcomes all skill levels and ages. Come connect with nature and fellow community members while making a tangible difference – together, let's ensure a thriving environment for our precious pollinators!
Meet at the entrance on Dhu Varren Rd, just east of Pontiac Trail. Volunteers will pull invasive weeds from the ground by hand. Workday sites have unpaved trails and require going off-trail. Preregister through VolunteerHub so NAP can plan on enough staff and supplies for a safe and successful event. For your safety, wear long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes. All minors should be accompanied by a guardian. More information: How to prepare for a NAP workday (PDF).
Weekday Stewardship Workday
Bird Hills Nature Area
Friday, June 28
1-4 p.m.
Kick off your weekend with a purpose this Friday afternoon by joining this invasive weed pulling event! It's a perfect chance to enjoy the outdoors, meet new friends, and make a tangible impact on our local ecosystem. No experience? No problem! NAP provides all the guidance and tools you need to help native plants flourish and keep our green spaces healthy. Sign up now and be part of a community dedicated to environmental stewardship!
Meet at the Newport Rd parking lot entrance, just north of M-14. Volunteers will pull invasive weeds from the ground by hand. Workday sites have unpaved trails and require going off-trail. Preregister through VolunteerHub so NAP can plan on enough staff and supplies for a safe and successful event. For your safety, wear long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes. All minors should be accompanied by a guardian. More information: How to prepare for a NAP workday (PDF).
Stewardship Workday
Bluffs Nature Area
Sunday, June 30
9 a.m.-noon
Join in the fight against invasive species at this volunteer event! This hands-on activity is a crucial part of NAP's efforts to protect our local ecosystems and ensure the health of native plant communities. Whether you're a green thumb or just looking to lend a hand, we welcome everyone to sign up now to contribute to this vital cause.
Meet at the entrance on Sunset Rd, just east of the cemetery. Volunteers will pull invasive weeds from the ground by hand. Workday sites have unpaved trails and require going off-trail. Preregister through VolunteerHub so NAP can plan on enough staff and supplies for a safe and successful event. For your safety, wear long pants, tall socks, and closed-toe shoes. All minors should be accompanied by a guardian. More information: How to prepare for a NAP workday (PDF).