Earth Day in Action: Brown's Woods

More than a day and bigger than a movement, Earth Day invites individuals, businesses, governments, and everyone in between to join together in celebration of Planet Earth. A sustainable and thriving future across the globe and generations begins right here at home by combating climate change, protecting biodiversity, and ecosystem preservation through habitat restoration in our favorite parks and trails.

We invite you to celebrate alongside PCC staff at Brown’s Woods as we continue our mission to protect and preserve our woodlands. At this event, volunteers will participate in restoration work by learning how to properly identify invasive plant species and the techniques to remove them, *how to identify early spring wildflowers and harvest their seed, and about the resulting benefits of this important conservation work in Brown's Woods, Iowa's largest urban forest situated along the Raccoon River.

This activity is led by members of our very own Stewards of Brown’s Woods, a community-based volunteer group dedicated to ecological restoration of this park. Dedicated volunteers and neighbors join together on a weekly basis to eliminate invasive plant species threatening the forest ecosystem.

Lunch is provided for all registered participants.

*In the absence of harvest-ready spring ephemeral plants, we will focus on invasive species removal.

ACTIVITY: Woodland habitat restoration - invasive plant species removal & seed harvest

ECOLOGICAL IMPACT AREAS: Woodland ecosystem, wildlife habitat, water quality, soil health

PHYSICAL DIFFICULTY: Moderate

REGISTRATION: Required

By registering for this event, I acknowledge I am filling an open position with a provided meal. 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.

DEADLINE: Register by noon the day prior. If the event is at capacity, contact Volunteer Coordinators to inquire about participation.

COST: Free – lunch provided for all registered participants.

GROUPS ALLOWED: Yes

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

• Ages 12+ will be permitted use of hand tools
• Ages 18+ will be permitted use of power tools and equipment

WHAT TO BRING: It is recommended to dress for the weather. Wear long pants and closed-toe shoes. Bring a pair of gloves, if you have them - gloves provided for those without.

In alliance with the 2024 Earth Day theme this year and earthday.org’s commitment to end plastics for the sake of human and planetary health, please bring a refillable water bottle.

Each event participant will be provided proper personal protective equipment and training as needed.

LOCATION DETAIL & SCHEDULE: Brown's Woods | Park Map | Meet in the gravel overflow parking lot

10 AM – 12 PM: Invasive species removal | 12 – 1 PM: Lunch provided for all registered participants

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.