Alexandria
Chinquapin Park
corner of Timber Branch Pkwy and Braddock Rd., Alexandria
Organization: City of Alexandria
Contact: Ford Nature Center (703-746-5559, Jane.Yeingst@alexandriava.gov)
Directions: Directions: Shirley Highway (395) to King St. (Rt. 7) east exit. Continue east on King St. past intersection of Braddock Road and Quaker Lane and just past T.C. Williams High School to Chinquapin Dr. on right. Turn right onto Chinquapin Dr. and immediately left into small parking lot facing King St. Walk from parking lot to entrance of Chinquapin Park at edge of woods (visible from parking area). Meet at entrance sign.
Time: 10:00am - 12:00pm
Number of volunteers needed: 40
City of Alexandria is again focusing on hand-pulling Garlic Mustard (Alliaria petiolata) at a number of City parks because it is a serious problem weed throughout our parks and natural areas; it is easily recognizable; it is easily pulled and therefore appropriate for a variety of volunteers and ages; and a lot can be accomplished in the way of removing it because it is so easy to pull (each plant pulled and bagged prevents hundreds to thousands of seeds from germinating into future years' crops). Bags will be provided. Please bring gloves and wear sturdy shoes (we will have gloves on hand for those who don't have them). Sandals, shorts, and short-sleeved shirts are not recommended.
Dora Kelley Nature Park
5750 Sanger Ave., Alexandria
Organization: City of Alexandria
Contact: Ford Nature Center (703-746-5559, Jane.Yeingst@alexandriava.gov)
Directions: Shirley Highway (395) to King St. (Rt. 7) west exit. Gradually move to left lane after exiting and take left onto Beauregard St. at bottom of hill (Beauregard St. becomes Walter Reed Dr. at this intersection at edge of City of Alexandria and Arlington County). Follow Beauregard St. south and uphill past Seminary Rd. and downhill to Sanger Ave. Take right onto Sanger Ave. and continue to its end. Turn left into parking area and proceed to parking lot at woods edge and park. Meet at Ford Nature Center, 5750 Sanger Ave.
Time: 10:00am - 12:00pm
Number of volunteers needed: 40
City of Alexandria is again focusing on hand-pulling Garlic Mustard (Alliaria petiolata) at a number of City parks because it is a serious problem weed throughout our parks and natural areas; it is easily recognizable; it is easily pulled and therefore appropriate for a variety of volunteers and ages; and a lot can be accomplished in the way of removing it because it is so easy to pull (each plant pulled and bagged prevents hundreds to thousands of seeds from germinating into future years' crops). Bags will be provided. Please bring gloves and wear sturdy shoes (we will have gloves on hand for those who don't have them). Sandals, shorts, and short-sleeved shirts are not recommended.
Holmes Run Park
Corner of N. Pickett and Holmes Run Parkway, Alexandria, 22304
Organization: Holmes Run Park Committee
Contact: Elizabeth Wright (703-370-9463, eliz.wright@alumni.umw.edu)
Directions: Meet across the "Beatley Bridge" near the park information kiosk. Shirley Highway (I-395) to Duke St. (Rt. 236) east exit. Continue east on Duke St. past Landmark Mall and gradually move to left lane and take left onto N. Pickett St. (CVS and Beatley Library on corner). Park along right side of N. Pickett St. and All Veterans Park. Meet at the pedestrian bridge (Beatley Bridge) that spans Holmes Run. If there'ÃÂs no parking along N. Pickett St., then park at Beatley Library or proceed along N. Pickett St. (becomes Holmes Run Pkwy) to N. Van Dorn St. Turn right onto N. Van Dorn St. and take next right onto Taney Ave. and proceed to Pegram St. Take right onto Pegram St. and follow to Holmes Run Pkwy. Park along the Pkwy (dead-ends at Holmes Run Park) and walk along asphalt path to bridge.
Time: 9:00am - 2:00pm
Number of volunteers needed: 50
Volunteers will be pulling mustard garlic. Please wear long sleeves, long pants, and bring gloves. Plastic bags for discarding will be provided.
It's recommended that volunteers bring smiles and energy/enthusiasm, work gloves, water bottles (refillable & earth-friendly, please), snacks, sunscreen, insect repellent. We will do a quick training on site. No special skills are needed other than the ability to bend over, stretch, and bag.
Timber Branch Park
corner of Timber Branch Pkwy and Braddock Rd., Alexandria
Organization: City of Alexandria
Contact: Ford Nature Center (703-746-5559, Jane.Yeingst@alexandriava.gov)
Directions: Shirley Highway (395) to King St. (Rt. 7) east exit. Stay in right lane of King St. after exiting and take first right onto Menokin Dr. (church on corner). Take immediate next right onto N. Van Dorn St. and follow to intersection of Braddock Road. Take left onto Braddock Road at light and proceed east past Episcopal High School and past intersection with King St. and Quaker Lane and continue east to Timber Branch Parkway on right (TB Pkwy is a long, linear loop). Turn right onto Pkwy and continue along park about half-way down its length to bridge. Park and meet at bridge.
Time: 10:00am - 12:00pm
Number of volunteers needed: 25
City of Alexandria is again focusing on hand-pulling Garlic Mustard (Alliaria petiolata) at a number of City parks because it is a serious problem weed throughout our parks and natural areas; it is easily recognizable; it is easily pulled and therefore appropriate for a variety of volunteers and ages; and a lot can be accomplished in the way of removing it because it is so easy to pull (each plant pulled and bagged prevents hundreds to thousands of seeds from germinating into future years' crops). Bags will be provided. Please bring gloves and wear sturdy shoes (we will have gloves on hand for those who don't have them). Sandals, shorts, and short-sleeved shirts are not recommended.
Annandale
Annandale Community Park
Lafayette Village Drive, Annandale, VA 22003
Organization: Fairfax County Park Authority Invasive Management Area (IMA) Program
Contact: Katherine Frederick (703-324-8681, katherine.frederick@fairfaxcounty.gov)
Directions: From Rte. 66, south on 495 Beltway exit 52B (Little River Turnpike Rte 236) east to left at 1st light at Hummer Rd, take the immediate left onto the access road. Parking is along the street.
Time: 9:00am - 12:00pm
Number of volunteers needed: 20
Volunteers will be participating at Invasive Management Areas, portions of parkland designated for habitat restoration. Volunteers will assist with the ongoing removal of invasive plants, tree protection and increasing native plant biodiversity. The focus of May 7th will be removing garlic mustard.
It's recommended that volunteers bring water, sun screen & insect repellant. Wear sturdy shoes. Wear long pants & long sleeved shirts & closed-toed shoes; workday will continue in light rain. Volunteers need to have the ability to pull & bag invasives. Site Leaders will show how to identify the targeted species and proper removal technique at the start of the workday.
Holmes Run Stream Valley
3816 Chanel Road, Annandale, 22003
Organization: Fairfax County Park Authority Invasive Management Area (IMA) Program
Contact: Katherine Frederick (703-324-8681, katherine.frederick@fairfaxcounty.gov)
Directions:495 exit onto Little River Road east, left onto Backlick, go one block and turn right onto Columbia Pike, pass Gallows Road and turn left directly across from Mason District Park followed by an immediate right onto the access road, pass Victoria Oaks and turn left onto Wyndhill. This road turns into Chanel Road and the park is located along the bend in the road on the left. Parking is along the street.
Time: 10:00 am-12:00 pm
Number of volunteers needed: 20
Volunteers will be participating at Invasive Management Areas, portions of parkland designated for habitat restoration. Volunteers will assist with the ongoing removal of invasive plants, tree protection and increasing native plant biodiversity. The focus of May 7th will be removing English ivy.
It's recommended that volunteers bring water, sun screen & insect repellant. Wear sturdy shoes. Wear long pants & long sleeved shirts & closed-toed shoes; workday will continue in light rain. Volunteers need to have the ability to pull & bag invasives. Site Leaders will show how to identify the targeted species and proper removal technique at the start of the workday.
Mason District Park
Columbia Pike, Annandale, VA
Organization: Fairfax County Park Authority Invasive Management Area (IMA) Program
Contact: Katherine Frederick (703-324-8681, katherine.frederick@fairfaxcounty.gov)
Directions: From 495 exit onto Little River Road east, left to Columbia Pike (follow signs for 244); Mason District Park will be on your right. Take the road to the right that leads to the amphitheater/tennis court parking lot.
Time: 9:00 am-12:00 pm
Number of volunteers needed: 20
Volunteers will be participating at Invasive Management Areas, portions of parkland designated for habitat restoration. Volunteers will assist with the ongoing removal of invasive plants, tree protection and increasing native plant biodiversity. The focus of May 7th will be removing garlic mustard.
It's recommended that volunteers bring water, sun screen & insect repellant. Wear sturdy shoes. Wear long pants & long sleeved shirts & closed-toed shoes; workday will continue in light rain. Volunteers need to have the ability to pull & bag invasives. Site Leaders will show how to identify the targeted species and proper removal technique at the start of the workday.
Arlington
Fort C.F. Smith Park
2411 24th St N, Arlington, VA 22207
Organization: Arlingtonians for a Clean Environment
Contact: Jenn Truong (703-228-6406, volunteer@arlingtonenvironment.org)
Directions: The main parking lot is just past the main house. If you arrive late, please park and then come around to the back of the main house where we'll be working.
Time: 10:00 am-12:00 pm
Number of volunteers needed: 50
Volunteers will assist in removing garlic mustard and mile-a-minute vine sprouts to rescue the historic property from invasives plant damage. It's recommended that volunteers bring water, sun screen & insect repellant. Wear sturdy shoes. Wear long pants & long sleeved shirts & closed-toed shoes; workday will continue in light rain. Volunteers need to have the ability to pull & bag invasives. Site Leaders will show how to identify the targeted species and proper removal technique at the start of the workday. Light snacks will be provided.
Gulf Branch Nature Center
3608 Military Road, Arlington, 22207
Organization: Gulf Branch Nature Center
Contact: Jennifer Soles (703-288-3403, jsoles@arlingtonva.us)
Directions: Our sign and driveway are right on Military Rd. Please park on Military Rd or 36th Rd, as our parking lot can only take a few cars. The nature center is ~150 feet down the driveway - we'll meet on the upper terrace.
Time: 2:30 pm- 4:30 pm
Number of volunteers needed: 50
Volunteers will be removing invasive plants and saving our park for native plants that support our native wildlife. It's recommended that volunteers bring water, a snack, sun screen & insect repellant. Wear sturdy shoes, long pants and long sleeves. Also bring work gloves and clippers if you have them. There will be gloves and equipment available to borrow as well. Onsite training will be provided for garlic mustard identification and removal techniques.
Haley Park/Gunston Middle School/Oakridge Elementary Woods
2400 S. Meade St., Arlington, VA 22202
Organization: Arlington County RiP program, Arlington Master Gardeners, Master Naturalists, and Tree Stewards
Contact: Sarah Archer (703-228-1862, sarcher@arlingtonva.us)
Directions: Limited parking at Haley Park, 2400 S. Meade St. Large amount of parking at Gunston Middle School, 2700 S. Lang Street, Arlington VA 22202. Enter off S. Lang Street, turn right (north) and proceed to the upper parking lot, closest to the wooded area.
Time: 9:00 am-12:00 pm
Number of volunteers needed: 10
We need 8-10 people with experience removing invasive plants. They are needed to supervise 80-100 enthusiastic but inexperienced young adults. The focus will be on removing English ivy and bush honeysuckle. Wear gloves, long sleeved shirts and long pants. Wear closed-toe shoes with rugged soles. The terrain is hilly and uneven and can be slippery with fallen leaves. Bring clippers, loppers and pruning saws if you have them. Volunteers should have experience with invasive removal and some knowledge of native plants.
Hume School
1805 S. Arlington Ridge Road, Arlington, VA 22202
Organization: Arlington Remove Invasive Plants (RIP)
Contact: Sarah Archer (703-228-1862, sarcher@arlingtonva.us)
Directions: Parking is available at the school.
Time: 9:00 pm - 12:00 pm
Number of volunteers needed: 8-10 experienced leaders
We need 8-10 people with experience removing invasive plants and knowledge of native plants. They are needed to supervise 80-100 enthusiastic but inexperienced young adults. The focus will be on removing English ivy and bush honeysuckle. Wear gloves, long sleeved shirts and long pants. Wear closed-toe shoes with rugged soles. The terrain is hilly and uneven and can be slippery with fallen leaves. It's also recommended that volunteers bring water, a snack, sun screen & insect repellant. Please bring clippers, loppers and purning saws if you have them.
Fort Scott Park
2800 S. Fort Scott Drive, Arlington, VA 22202
Organization: Arlington Remove Invasive Plants (RIP)
Contact: Sarah Archer (703-228-1862, sarcher@arlingtonva.us)
Directions: Parking is available in a lot off of Fort Scott Drive.
Time: 9:00 pm - 12:00 pm
Number of volunteers needed: 8-10 experienced leaders
We need 8-10 people with experience removing invasive plants and knowledge of native plants. They are needed to supervise 80-100 enthusiastic but inexperienced young adults. The focus will be on removing English ivy and bush honeysuckle. Wear gloves, long sleeved shirts and long pants. Wear closed-toe shoes with rugged soles. The terrain is hilly and uneven and can be slippery with fallen leaves. It's also recommended that volunteers bring water, a snack, sun screen & insect repellant. Please bring clippers, loppers and purning saws if you have them.
Long Branch Nature Center
625 S. Carlin Springs Road, Arlington, VA 22204
Organization: Arlington Remove Invasive Plants (RIP)
Contact: Long Branch Nature Center (703-288-6535) to register
Directions: Meet at the Long Branch Nature Center parking lot. To get there, take S. Carlin Springs Rd south of Arlington Blvd/US Route 50 and north of Columbia Pike. The access road is on the east side and is shared with the 611 S. Carlin Springs Rd medical offices complex at the bottom of the hill. Keep going past the medical offices until you come to the nature center parking lot (additional parking the medical center parking garage is free). Metro accessible via the Orange Line to Ballston and 25A bus toward Pentagon; get off at stop next to medical offices and walk about 400 yards east to parking lot.
Time: 2:00 pm- 5:00 pm
Number of volunteers needed: 10
We will be pulling up and bagging Garlic Mustard plants around the 17 acre park. Please bring workgloves. long sleeves and pants and a hat recommended as well as water and a snack. Ability to recognize Garlic Mustard plants and pull them up without damaging non-target plants is needed. No children under 12 please unless with parent or guardian.
Thrifton Hill Park
N. Lorcom Lane & N. Edgewood St., Arlington, VA
Organization: Arlingtonians for a Clean Environment
Contact: Jenn Truong (703-228-6406, volunteer@arlingtonenvironment.org)
Directions: Please park in the Lyon Village Shopping Center on the end by the Giant. Follow sidewalk to the end of the parking lot and go under the I-66 overpass bridge. Take a left onto the trail going into the park. Follow it to the end of the trail where we will meet for sign-in and supplies.
Time: 10:00 am-12:00 pm
Number of volunteers needed: 40
Volunteers will assist in removing garlic mustard and mile-a-minute vine sprouts to help restore the park and stream health. It's recommended that volunteers bring water, sun screen & insect repellant. Wear sturdy shoes. Wear long pants & long sleeved shirts & closed-toed shoes; workday will continue in light rain. Volunteers need to have the ability to pull & bag invasives. Site Leaders will show how to identify the targeted species and proper removal technique at the start of the workday. Light snacks will be provided.
Burke
Pohick Stream Valley
Mason Bluff Drive, Burke, VA
Organization: Fairfax County Park Authority Invasive Management Area (IMA) Program
Contact: Katherine Frederick (703-324-8681, katherine.frederick@fairfaxcounty.gov)
Directions: From Fairfax County Parkway, turn onto Burke Lake Road; turn left onto Coffer Woods Road and right onto Mason Bluff Drive (Burke Overlook neighborhood). Parking is along the street 1/2 mile down the road within a circular road area near paved park entrance.
Time: 10:00 am-12:00 pm
Number of volunteers needed: 20
Volunteers will be participating at Invasive Management Areas, portions of parkland designated for habitat restoration. Volunteers will assist with the ongoing removal of invasive plants, tree protection and increasing native plant biodiversity. The focus of May 7th will be removing garlic mustard.
It's recommended that volunteers bring water, sun screen & insect repellant. Wear sturdy shoes. Wear long pants & long sleeved shirts & closed-toed shoes; workday will continue in light rain. Volunteers need to have the ability to pull & bag invasives. Site Leaders will show how to identify the targeted species and proper removal technique at the start of the workday.
Charlottesville
Loft Mountain
NOTE: THIS EVENT IS ON SATURDAY, APRIL 30
Skyline Drive (MP 79.5), Shennandoah National Park
Organization: Rivanna Master Naturalists
Contact: Jackie Heath (434-293-5422, jackieheath@comcast.net)
Directions: I64 East or West to Exit 100, north on Skyline Drive to MP 79.5 or Rt. 250 East or West to Afton exit, north on Skyline Drive to MP 79.5; or Rt. 33 East or West to Swift Run Gap near MP 65 on Skyline Drive, then South to MP 79.5. Park at Loft Mountain Wayside
Time: 10:00 am-2:00 pm
Number of volunteers needed: Any
Volunteers will assist with the removal of garlic mustard along the paved path to the camping area. It's recommended that volunteers bring gloves, water, sun screen & insect repellant. Volunteers may want to bring a lunch if working they intend to work through the day.
Delaplane
Sky Meadows State Park
11012 Edmonds Lane, Delaplane, VA
Organization: Sky Meadows State Park
Contact: Christa Kermode (540-592-3556, Christa.Kermode@dcr.virginia.gov)
Time: 11:00 am-3:00 pm
Number of volunteers needed: 100
Community members who are looking for a way to give back are encouraged to come out to the park and get involved in our Invasive Species Removal Day. Join Trish Bartholomew, the park’s Natural History Interpreter, at the Historic Mount Bleak House at 11:00 a.m. Trish will talk briefly about the invasive species in the park and give instruction on proper plant removal. Then, you’ll spend the day out in the park removing some of the invaders while enjoying the beauty of Sky Meadows State Park. The focus will be on garlic mustard, Japanese stiltgras, and Oriental bittersweet. Volunteers should bring work gloves, clippers, lopping shears, and garbage bags.
Fairfax
Rutherford Park
4710 Guinea Rd., Fairfax, VA 22032
Organization: Fairfax County Park Authority Invasive Management Area (IMA) Program
Contact: Katherine Frederick (703-324-8681, katherine.frederick@fairfaxcounty.gov)
Directions: Beltway exit 52 (Little River Turnpike Rte. 236) west to left turn onto Guinea Rd. Park entrance on right prior to Braddock Road.
Time: 10:00 am-2:00 pm
Number of volunteers needed: 10
Volunteers will be participating at Invasive Management Areas, portions of parkland designated for habitat restoration. Volunteers will assist with the ongoing removal of invasive plants, tree protection and increasing native plant biodiversity. The focus of May 7th will be removing garlic mustard.
It's recommended that volunteers bring water, sun screen & insect repellant. Wear sturdy shoes. Wear long pants & long sleeved shirts & closed-toed shoes; workday will continue in light rain. Volunteers need to have the ability to pull & bag invasives. Site Leaders will show how to identify the targeted species and proper removal technique at the start of the workday.
Woodglen Lake Park
Zion Road, Fairfax
Organization: Fairfax County Park Authority Invasive Management Area (IMA) Program
Contact: Katherine Frederick (703-324-8681, katherine.frederick@fairfaxcounty.gov)
Directions: From Ox Road (Route 123), turn onto Zion Road and the park entrance will be on your right. Parking is along the nearby streets.
Time: 9:00 am-12:00 pm
Number of volunteers needed: 20
Volunteers will be participating at Invasive Management Areas, portions of parkland designated for habitat restoration. Volunteers will assist with the ongoing removal of invasive plants, tree protection and increasing native plant biodiversity. The focus of May 7th will be removing garlic mustard.
It's recommended that volunteers bring water, sun screen & insect repellant. Wear sturdy shoes. Wear long pants & long sleeved shirts & closed-toed shoes; workday will continue in light rain. Volunteers need to have the ability to pull & bag invasives. Site Leaders will show how to identify the targeted species and proper removal technique at the start of the workday.
Hillsville
Beaver Dam Trail
Hillsville, VA
Organization: New River Valley and Beagle Ridge Master Naturalists
Contact: Brian Kreowski (276-608-6349, brian_kreowski@yahoo.com)
Directions: Participants will meet at the trail's North parking lot on Trot Town Rd. (Rt. 1021) about half mile East of Main Street (Rt. 52) on Beaver Dam Rd (Rt. 886), or 1.3 miles West of Sylvatus Highway (Rt. 100).
Time: 9:00 am-12:00 pm
Number of volunteers needed: 10
We will be removing invasive plants from along the trail right-of-way. Some participants may be gathering trash as well. The focus of May 7th will be removing garlic mustard, honeysuckle, and multiflora rose.
It's recommended that volunteers bring gloves, loppers, pruning saws, trash bags, insect repellent, other protective clothing (rain gear, hat, boots, etc.), water, snacks. The ability to identify invasive plants is helpful, but a brief identification will occur at the start of the day. Volunteers must be physically fit to cut and move plants and trash along a two mile trail. Be prepared to get muddy.
Lancaster
Chilton Woods State Forest & Belle Isle State Park
Northern Neck of Virginia, Lancaster County, VA
Organization: Virginia Master Naturalists & Virginia Native Plant Society
Contact: Earline Walker (804-529-9362, earlinedickinson@aol.com)
Directions: Please call Earline Walker for directions
Time: 9:30am - 3:30 pm
Number of volunteers needed: 10
Volunteers at Belle Isle State Park will eradicate Autumn Olive from 9:30 until 11:30 AM. Volunteers at Chilton Woods State Forest will view Japanese Stiltgrass sites and discuss identification, characteristics, eradication, timing, etc. from 1:30 until 3:30 PM. Other invasives will be visited and eradicated. Please bring water, insect repellent, sunscreen, gloves, pruners and loopers.
Leesburg
Banshee Reeks Nature Preserve
21085 The Woods Road, Leesburg, VA 20175
Organization: Banshee Reeks Nature Preserve Invasive Alien Plant Removal
Contact: Dave Hellums (703-507-5165, groundhog0369@msn.com)
Directions: Follow signs to Annex and parking will be on the marked parking lot on the left.
Time: 9:00am - 12:00 pm
Number of volunteers needed: 20
The invasive removal team (Weed Bees) and Banshee Reeks Nature Preserve will be providing all tools and equipment. We will be hand pulling small Autumn Olive and Japanese Honeysuckle where found. Larger Autumn Olive plants will be cut to the ground using loppers and hand pruners. The Weed Bees will treat the stumps with herbicide. Volunteers will need to bring work gloves, tick spray, drinks, and snacks. Long sleeve shirts, trousers and sturdy boots/shoes are highly recommended. The Weed Bees will provide instructions on plant ID and best removal process
Lexington
Chessie Nature Trail
Lexington, VA
Organization: Rockbridge Master Naturalists
Contact: Bernadette Bowen (540-463-6177, bbowen00@gmail.com)
Directions: * From the juncture of Route 60 and the East Lexington Bridge turn onto Old Buena Vista Road. Go .6 miles. Immediately after the water treatment plant and Lincoln Road will be a small gravel parking area on the left
Access to the Chessie Nature Trail is directly across the street
Time: 9:00am - 11:30 pm
Number of volunteers needed: 10
We will be cutting English ivy vines encircling trees, removing Japanese honeysuckle along rocks and trail, removing garlic mustard from along sides of trail, and removing Ailianthus on the trail. Volunteers should bring gardening gloves, clippers, water, and a willingness to make a difference!
Linden
Appalachian Trail (Northern Virginia)
NOTE: THIS EVENT IS ON SATURDAY, MAY 21
1000 Fiery Run Road, Linden, VA
Organization: National Park Service
Contact: James Akerson(540-999-3500 x3496, james_akerson@nps.gov)
Directions: If travelling along I-66, take exit-13, then drive east on Johm Marshall Hwy (VA-55) 1.3-miles to Linden, Va. Turn south along Fiery Run Rd (VA-638) for 0.8-mile to the second stone and iron gate. Pull into the meadow for event parking.
Time: 10:00am - 2:00pm
Number of volunteers needed: 40
The event will focus on pulling/uprooting garlic mustard, yellow rocket, and mullein, all highly invasive exotic plants. We will work both southerly and northerly along the Trail from the event parking. This event is sponsored by the Defenders of Wildlife who will also provide literature for the event. We hope you will join us for a day of helping make a difference on the world famous Appalachaian National Scenic Trail. Volunteers should bring long pants, shoes and socks, and drinking water. Volunteers should have the ability to walk on steep trail sections and the ability to bend down to uproot invasive plants.
Lorton
Bureau of Land Management's Meadowood Recreation Area
10406 Gunston Rd., Lorton
Organization: Earth Sangha
Contact: Lisa Bright (703-764-4830, lbright@earthsangha.org)
Directions: This site is not metro accessible. Carpooling is recommended. Take Route 1 to Lorton and turn east (left if you’re traveling south) onto Gunston Road. Stay on Gunston Road for about 2 miles; shortly after Gunston Elementary School, turn right into a fenced in area called the “Lower Potomac Field Station”. Drive slowly and park in the grass along the fence, just before the entrance to the parking lot with the large barn. Please do not touch or feed the horses. From the parking area the site is about a half-mile into the woods.
Time: 10:00am - 1:00pm
Number of volunteers needed: 20
Volunteers will be removing exotic invasive vines in a wooded area along Thompson Creek, as well as doing some native plant installation. The target invasive plants will be Japanese honeysuckle and mile-a-minute. We will provide all of the tools and supplies necessary to perform the work. Volunteers need only to bring a water bottle, work gloves, insect repellent, and wear appropriate clothing (long pants and sturdy, close-toed shoes). No prior knowledge or skills needed; we will orient the volunteers on the local ecology, exotic plant identification and removal, and proper native plant installation.
Martinsville
J. Frank Wilson Park
502 E. Church Street, Martinsville
Organization: Southwestern Piedmont Master Naturalists
Contact: Glenda Hairston(276-634-4141 extension 4318,
Glenda.hairston@vmnh.virginia.gov )
Directions: Google Map for directions
Time: 9:00am - 3:00pm
Number of volunteers needed: 20
In partnership with Friends of Wilson Park, master naturalists will participate in a stewardship project to benefit J. Frank Wilson Park. There will be an invasive species removal, gardening, trash pick-up, a picnic lunch, a stream quality survey, and more. Join us for the entire day or drop in for a little while! Bring your favorite gardening tool and meet at the old stone shelter at 9 am. We will be in the Park until 3 pm. Focal plants will be kudzu and english ivy, as well as poison ivy. Volunteers should bring vine cutters, garden rake, and gloves.
McLean
Falstaff Park
Falstaff Road, McLean, VA
Organization: Fairfax County Park Authority Invasive Management Area (IMA) Program
Contact: Katherine Frederick (703-324-8681, katherine.frederick@fairfaxcounty.gov)
Directions: Beltway exit 46A (Dolley Madison / Rte 123 north) to left onto Lewinsville Rd. Turn left onto Falstaff Road. Park will be on the left. Parking is along the street.
Time: 9:00am - 12:00pm
Number of volunteers needed: 20
Volunteers will be participating at Invasive Management Areas, portions of parkland designated for habitat restoration. Volunteers will assist with the ongoing removal of invasive plants, tree protection and increasing native plant biodiversity. The focus of May 7th will be removing garlic mustard.
It's recommended that volunteers bring water, sun screen & insect repellant. Wear sturdy shoes. Wear long pants & long sleeved shirts & closed-toed shoes; workday will continue in light rain. Volunteers need to have the ability to pull & bag invasives. Site Leaders will show how to identify the targeted species and proper removal technique at the start of the workday.
Pembroke
Jefferson National Park
NOTE: THIS EVENT IS ON SATURDAY, APRIL 30
11550 Glade Drive, Reston, VA
Organization: Potomac Highlands Cooperative Weed and Pest Management Area
Contact: Andrea Brandon (304-637-0160, abrandon@tnc.org)
Directions: Take exit 118 I-81 north on US-460, making sure to use the bypasses around Christiansburg
and Blacksburg. After 26.6 miles turn right on Cascade Dr (SR-T623) in Pembroke. The entrance is in 3.3 miles.
Time: 10:00am
Number of volunteers needed: 60
Bring yourself and your friends! Please bring water to drink, boots, and a desire to eradicate invasive species! Volunteers will focus their efforts on removal of Garlic Mustard.
Reston
Old Trail Natural Area Restoration
11550 Glade Drive, Reston, VA
Organization: Reston Association
Contact: Ha Brock and Patricia Greenberg (703-435-7986, ha@reston.org)
Directions: Please park at Glade Pool or along Glade Drive. We will meet near the the tot-lot next to the pool parking lot and head down the asphalt path behind the pool into the woods behind the houses. From Fairfax County Parkway 7100: Take the Sunrise Valley exit east (make a right if you are coming from the south). Make a right at the first light onto Glade Drive, cross over Reston Parkway and continue on Glade Drive until you reach the Glade pool on your left. From Dulles Toll Road 267: Take the Wiehle Avenue Exit #13, heading south (make a left at the light if you are coming from the east). Make a right onto Sunrise Valley Drive and a left at the next light onto Soapstone Drive. Glade pool will be on your right at the corner of Glade Drive and Soapstone Drive.
Time: 9:00am - 12:00pm
Number of volunteers needed: 60
Volunteers will pull Garlic Mustard (Alliaria petiolata) in the woods near Snakeden branch, which is the site of a recent stream restoration project. Volunteers will also work along the asphalt path that starts at the Glade Pool and loops around the Old Trail Drive neighborhood. Water, gloves, snacks, pre-poison ivy wipes and tools will be provided. Please wear long sleeve shirts and long pants. There is poison ivy at this site. RA will provide pre-poison ivy protective wipes.
Richmond
Joseph Bryan Park
4308 Hermitage Rd., Richmond, VA
Organization: Riverine Master Naturalists
Contact: Sally Chamberlin (804-262-8861, salchamberlin@gmail.com)
Directions: Please visit friendsofbryanpark.org for directions and a map to the site.
Look for directional signs with the Friends of Bryan Park logo once you enter the park. We will park at the first lot on the right as you enter the Azalea Loop Road. Don't worry. Just follow the signs. Friends of Bryan Park is "my other hat" but this is a VMN event.
Soccer players will be using the fields while we are there.
Time: 9:00am - 12:00pm
Number of volunteers needed: 10
We will be clearing a kiosk display/two table picnic area near the Bryan Park soccer fields. Being on the edge of the woods the site is overrun with invasive non-native vines, and Japanese Knotweed. Our work will make this area an integral part of this beautiful park once again. There is very, very little poison ivy here. Bring work gloves, pruners, loppers, a strong back, water, snack (or bring a picnic lunch and enjoy the park and nearby Azalea Garden!) I like the protection of rubber boots when removing honeysuckle since I can't see my feet through the vines. I will bring bags for the honeysuckle which can reroot. The plants are easily recognizable, but we will review our non native invasive plant targets before we begin. You will learn about Japanese Knotweed (very hard to permanently eradicate), a plant which many are unfamiliar with, but is rapidly making its mark in the region.
Forest Hill Park
42nd Street parking lot, Richmond, VA
Organization: Riverine Master Naturalists
Contact: Emily Gianfortoni (804-240-9580, riverinechapter@verizon.net)
Directions: Park at the far end of the lot in the 42nd St. parking lot.
Time: 9:00am - 12:00pm
Number of volunteers needed: 20
Volunteers will be cutting English ivy from around the trunks of trees in the park. This will be a continuation of two previous invasive ivy removal days. Volunteers should wear long pants and shirt and covered shoes as there is some poison ivy in the area. Bring gloves, loppers, pruners, pruning saws. Some will be provided by Richmond City Parks. Ability to identify English ivy and poison ivy would be helpful.
Forest Hill Park
Forest Hill Ave & 41st Street, Richmond, VA
Organization: Friends of Forest Hill Park
Contact: Suzette Lyon (slyon10@yahoo.com)
Directions: Meet at the Stone House (clearly visible from the intersection listed above). Street parking is available near the Stone House.
Time: 12:00am - 3:00pm
Number of volunteers needed: 20
Volunteers will be removing English Ivy on the ground and cutting from the base of trees.
Removal of privet using a Weed Wrench. Some Japanese honeysuckle and ailanthus is present as well and will be removed where needed. Volunteers may stay later than 3 pm! There is some poison ivy present. Wear long pants and long sleeves. Bring gloves. Bring loppers and pruners if you have them.
We will have some tools available for those who do not have their own. If you are not familiar with invasive plants and removal, we will gladly provide on the spot training.
Vienna
Nottoway
9601 Courthouse Road, Vienna, VA
Organization: Fairfax County Park Authority Invasive Management Area (IMA) Program
Contact: Katherine Frederick (703-324-8681, katherine.frederick@fairfaxcounty.gov)
Directions: From Rte 66 exit onto Rte. 243 (Nutley Street north), turn left onto Courthouse Rd. Entrance on left. Park in the lot by Field 4 (rectangular field). Enter Fitness Trail behind Field 4, and walk past picnic tables/Fitness Station 2; continue past Fitness Stations 3 & 13; continue right at the fork in the path; and meet by the wooden kiosk near walking path on right.
Time: 9:00am - 12:00pm
Number of volunteers needed: 40
Volunteers will be participating at Invasive Management Areas, portions of parkland designated for habitat restoration. Volunteers will assist with the ongoing removal of invasive plants, tree protection and increasing native plant biodiversity. The focus of May 7th will be removing garlic mustard.
It's recommended that volunteers bring water, sun screen & insect repellant. Wear sturdy shoes. Wear long pants & long sleeved shirts & closed-toed shoes; workday will continue in light rain. Volunteers need to have the ability to pull & bag invasives. Site Leaders will show how to identify the targeted species and proper removal technique at the start of the workday.