Poplar Creek - Schaumburg Rd. Grasslands - Stewardship Volunteer Days

About

We are restoring prairies and groves of oak-hickory woodlands at this site. It is home to numerous rare grassland birds, including Bobolinks, Eastern Meadowlarks, Henslow's Sparrows, Grasshopper Sparrows. We are removing invasive plants and restoring the native vegetative biodiversity while increasing the habitats for birds. No experience is necessary: just an interest in working with others to protect and restore our natural areas. Activities may include seed collection, planting, cutting brush, or pulling invasive species, depending on the season.

The Poplar Creek Prairie Stewards have transformed agricultural fields and farm homesteads into healthy native habitats- tallgrass prairie, oak woodland, savanna and wetland. Their efforts have seen native plants, birds and animals thrive. They also protect a jewel on the site: the Shoe Factory Nature Preserve, a remnant gravel hill prairie formed thousands of years ago by glacial deposits. Outdoor workdays are held every weekend all year. Volunteers receive training and tools for all activities and are supervised by knowledgeable personnel. You just need a willingness to get involved and learn!

Groups use the RESERVE button to request a group reservation. Completing this form does not guarantee slots. We will reach out regarding availability.

Requirements

Youth under age 18 must be accompanied by a legal parent/guardian or attend with a chaperoned organized youth group (school, scouts, church).

All volunteers need to complete the volunteer agreement and waiver form in order to participate. For volunteers under age 18, a parent or legal guardian must sign the waiver and attend the stewardship day. Be prepared for variable weather, uneven terrain, standing and/or walking for two or more hours, working near a fire, and hazardous insects and plants.

What to Expect
Stewardship volunteers help to restore natural habitat by performing seasonal restoration tasks. The work may include removing weeds and invasive vegetation, cutting and burning invasive woody plants, collecting and spreading native seed, and collecting trash. These tasks may incorporate the use of tools, including hand saws, loppers, pruning shears, trowels, shovels, rakes, and other hand tools (manual). All necessary tools, supplies, gloves, and training will be provided.

Safety
While we strive to create the safest environment possible, it is impossible to eliminate all potential hazards when working outside in nature. Volunteers are advised to wear long pants, sturdy closed-toe shoes and other seasonally appropriate clothing that can get dirty. Bring a water bottle. Hazards may include stinging or biting insects, poison ivy, walking on uneven terrain, a fire to burn cut brush, and inclement weather.