Dig Your Natives: Spring Garden Cleanup at Jester Park

Embrace the season of renewal this spring in PCC native gardens. Gardens utilizing plants that are native to a region provide many benefits for biodiversity, wildlife, water quality, and positively impact our community. Timely spring garden cleanup sets up our rain and pollinator gardens for success during the growing season. 

During this event, volunteers will receive a mini-lesson on garden spring cleanup. After the lesson, volunteers will get their hands dirty and dig into early season gardening tasks. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a beginner, these events provide valuable insights for caring for rain gardens and native plantings as both a volunteer in Polk County parks and for your native gardens at home. 

ACTIVITY: Gardening - weeding, mulching, vegetation removal 

PHYSICAL DIFFICULTY: Easy – Moderate. This task involves bending at the knees and other similar movements required for typical gardening activities. 

REGISTRATION: Required 

DEADLINE: Register by noon the day prior. If registration is closed, please contact Volunteer Coordinators to inquire about attendance. 

By registering for this event, I acknowledge I am filling an open position. In the event that I and/or members of my group are unable to attend, I will cancel my registration to allow for others to join this event. 

COST: Free 

GROUPS ALLOWED: Yes 

AGES: This event is appropriate for ages 8+. No experience necessary. 

• Ages 12+ will be permitted use of hand tools 

WHAT TO BRING: Dress for the weather. Required - closed-toe footwear. Recommended – long pants, long socks, work gloves, and clothes you don’t mind getting dirty. Gloves provided for those without. Additionally: 

• Bring a reusable water bottle in an effort to promote sustainability. 
• Headphones to listen to your favorite music, podcast, book, etc. are welcome for this type of activity.  
• Each event participant will be provided proper personal protective equipment and training as needed.  

LOCATION DETAILS & SCHEDULE: 

Jester Park Nature Center | Park Map | Meet outside main entrance  

Date: April 1st & April 4th @ 10 AM - 12 PM & 1PM - 3 PM 

*Come for the morning, afternoon, or both – participants are encouraged to come and go per their desired hours. 

CONTACT: ConservationVolunteers@polkcountyiowa.gov 

Polk County Conservation strives to host inclusive, accessible events and meetings that enable all individuals to participate. If you anticipate needing a modification due to a disability or have questions about accessibility, please contact us at 515-323-5300 or pccb_info@polkcountyiowa.gov.