A partnership of The Conservation Foundation and the City of Ottawa created the Dayton Bluffs Preserve, which features 100 acres of prairie, 150 acres of woodlands, rugged ravines, water cascades, and the beautiful Fox River. Work activities vary throughout the year and include collecting native seeds, removal of invasive trees and shrubs, trail maintenance, planting and seeding native species, and controlling weeds. If you plan to bring a group, please contact us at restore@theconservationfoundation.org.
What is the main goal of the workday and how can I be most effective while volunteering?
The workday helps restore and protect Dayton Bluffs' prairies, woodlands, ravines and the Fox River by removing invasives, maintaining trails, planting natives and collecting seed. Be most effective by arriving ready to work, following the crew leader's instructions, focusing on targeted tasks (e.g., pulling specific invasive species or collecting seed from marked plants), and staying with a crew so effort is coordinated. Consistency matters more than intensity — small, careful actions (not overharvesting seed, removing roots when possible, or cutting and treating woody invasives as instructed) have big long-term benefits for habitat recovery.
What should I bring and wear to maximize my productivity and comfort?
Wear sturdy, closed-toe boots, long pants and long sleeves to protect against thorny plants, poison ivy and ticks. Bring work gloves (leather or nitrile liners), a hat, layered clothing for changing weather, sunscreen and a reusable water bottle. Optional useful items: pruning shears or loppers (if you own them and can label them), a small hand trowel, knee pads, and a snack. The Conservation Foundation supplies common tools and training, but bringing personal gloves and water speeds you into productive work.
Will I get training on how to identify native plants and invasive species?
Yes — volunteers receive an orientation and on-site guidance from experienced staff or volunteer leaders. If you want to help more effectively, pay close attention during the ID briefing, ask questions, and use photos or markings leaders provide. Avoid removing plants unless directed. If unsure about a plant, take a photo and ask rather than removing it; that prevents accidental damage to native species.
Are tools and disposal methods provided, and are there safety tips for using them?
Organizers provide shovels, rakes, loppers, hand clippers and bags or bins for green waste. Use tools only after a quick safety demo, keep a firm stance when cutting, wear eye protection if using long-handled tools, and never swing tools near others. For invasives: follow leader instructions about whether to pull, cut, or bag; do not leave cut material on-site where it can resprout or spread seed. The team will direct proper disposal — do not compost invasive material unless instructed.
What health and safety precautions should I take (ticks, weather, group participation)?
Take tick precautions (wear long clothing, tuck pants into socks, use repellent, do a full tick check afterward). Bring water and snacks and know your limits in hot or cold weather; dress in layers and take breaks. If bringing a group, email restore@theconservationfoundation.org ahead of time so the team can coordinate supervision and tasks. If you have allergies, mobility limits, or medical needs, tell organizers at check-in so they can assign appropriate tasks.
Did you know?
Hands-on habitat restoration—planting natives and removing invasives—measurably improves ecosystem function and resilience, helping streams, prairies, and forests recover from disturbance.
https://www.epa.gov/ecological-restoration
Removing invasive plants gives native species a better chance to establish and increases food and cover for native wildlife; early volunteer removal is one of the most cost‑effective ways to protect ecosystems.
Restoring native prairie and wildflower plantings supports pollinators—native bees, butterflies, and many bird species—by providing diverse nectar and nesting resources throughout the season.
https://www.xerces.org/pollinator-conservation
Volunteering outdoors boosts mental and physical health: people who spend time helping restore green space report reduced stress, increased physical activity, and stronger community connections.
Using locally sourced native seed and plant material improves restoration success because local genotypes are better adapted to site conditions and support local wildlife.
Community volunteer restoration builds long-term stewardship—regular volunteers help monitor, maintain, and protect natural areas so improvements last for years.
FAQ
Did you know?