Join The Conservation Foundation and Friends of O’Hara Woods volunteers to improve the ecological health of this State Nature Preserve.
Work may include trash clean-up, removal of invasive shrubs and plants, creating/burning brush piles, and harvesting native seeds. Please dress for the weather and conditions, which includes long pants, long-sleeves, and sturdy shoes. Bring a water bottle and work gloves if you have them. Safety glasses, extra gloves, and tools will be provided.
What kinds of tasks will we be doing and how can I best prepare to be effective?
Tasks may include trash clean-up, cutting and removing invasive shrubs/plants, creating or burning brush piles, and harvesting native seeds. To be most effective: arrive on time, wear long pants, long sleeves, and sturdy closed-toe shoes; bring a refillable water bottle and work gloves if you have them; consider pruning shears or loppers if you know how to use them (tools and extras will be provided); listen to crew leaders for instructions and task assignments; and come ready to work at a steady, safe pace.
How can I remove invasive species without damaging native plants?
Follow the crew leader’s guidance on which species to target and removal methods. Common best practices: work slowly and deliberately to avoid disturbing nearby natives; cut or pull from the base and remove roots when possible; bag or pile removed material in designated areas to prevent re-rooting; avoid using heavy machinery near sensitive plants; and ask for help when encountering uncertain plants so leaders can identify and instruct.
What should I bring and know about harvesting native seeds responsibly?
Bring small paper bags or breathable containers and labels if you have them (plastic can trap moisture and mold seeds). Only collect seeds that are mature and abundant, and follow leader directions about which species and quantities are appropriate—do not collect from rare or protected plants. Keep different species separated and clearly labeled by area/patch if asked. Clean hands and tools between species to avoid cross-contamination.
Are there safety or weather precautions I should take?
Dress in layers for changing weather and wear long sleeves/pants to reduce scratches and ticks. Use sun protection and insect repellent (do a tick check after). Bring plenty of water and don’t push past your comfort level—take breaks as needed. Safety glasses, extra gloves, and tools will be provided; follow all instructions around brush piles and controlled burns and keep a safe distance if burning occurs.
I can’t make the workday — how else can I support O’Hara Woods and The Conservation Foundation?
You can help by spreading the word and recruiting volunteers, donating or lending tools and supplies (e.g., loppers, gloves, tarps), joining or donating to the organizer’s programs, or signing up for newsletters to learn about future volunteer opportunities. For specific ways to help or to coordinate supplies, email Renae Frigo at rfrigo@theconservationfoundation.org.
Did you know?
Restoring native plant communities increases pollinator abundance and diversity—helping food webs and native wildlife rebound—so your seed‑collecting and planting work has measurable ecological benefits.
https://pollinator.org/
Removing invasive shrubs (like buckthorn or nonnative honeysuckle) allows native tree and wildflower seedlings to regenerate, improving long‑term forest resilience—volunteer removal accelerates that recovery.
https://www.fs.usda.gov/learn/invasive-species
Collecting and using locally sourced native seed preserves local genetic diversity and is one of the most cost‑effective ways to restore habitat; community seed harvests directly supply restoration projects.
https://xerces.org/
Picking up litter in natural areas prevents plastics and other debris from harming wildlife and from washing into streams and rivers, protecting water quality downstream.
https://www.epa.gov/trash-free-waters
Participating in a community restoration day increases long‑term stewardship: volunteers are more likely to continue caring for and advocating for local green spaces after hands‑on involvement.
https://www.nps.gov/subjects/volunteer/index.htm
Working outdoors on habitat projects reduces stress and improves mood and physical activity—so volunteering benefits both the land and your well‑being.
FAQ
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