Calling all volunteers! Get ready to roll up your sleeves and help plant 500 shrubs near Camp Tomo Chi-Chi Knolls in celebration of Earth Day at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 26.
Volunteers are needed to help plant hundreds of hazelnuts, nannyberries, and various shrubs near Camp Tomo Chi-Chi Knolls, within Freeman Kame – Meagher Forest Preserve at 40W095 Freeman Road in Gilberts.
The planting process is simple: Volunteers will plant shrubs in pre-dug holes, tamp down dirt, add water, and mulch. Whether you plant one tree or a dozen, every contribution counts towards a greener future.
The event will start at 10 a.m., and aims to have all shrubs in the ground by noon. Volunteers can stick around after the planting for a naturalist-led hike at 11 a.m. and explore the beauty of the preserve firsthand.
Throughout the morning, enjoy an informative pop-up naturalist exhibit, as well as an exciting traveling science center curated by the Illinois Natural History Survey. Volunteers will also have the pleasure of listening to folk singer-songwriter Mark Dvorak, who will provide live accompaniment during the event.
Forest Preserve director of Natural Resources Patrick Chess has celebrated 14 Earth Days with the Forest Preserve District, and totes the importance of the annual event.
“Every day is Earth Day for us, of course, but for the general public, it’s a special reminder to put in the work and do your part,” Chess said.
“The former tree planting in this area helped establish a future canopy, while this upcoming shrub planting will increase diversity and habitat structure throughout the emerging midstory.”
This volunteer opportunity is ideal for individuals, families, scout troops, youth groups, and organizations alike. Don’t forget to bring your own work gloves for planting, and a lawn chair or blanket if you plan to stay and enjoy the band.
For groups of 10 or more, contact our Volunteer Coordinator at 630-762-2741 or email CleaveRobb@kaneforest.com to register. Groups of less than 10 are welcome to join without RSVP.
Parking is available at the southern lot off entrance 40W095 Freeman Road, in Gilberts. Overflow parking is available near the lodge. ADA-accesible parking and bathrooms are available on site.
For more information about the Earth Day shrub planting event, visit www.kaneforest.com, call 630-232-5980, or find us on social media @forestpreserve.
—Forest Preserve District of Kane County