Leopold's Preserve offers volunteer events on the third Saturday morning of each month, from February through November.
Volunteers are welcome to stay as long as they'd like - drop in for an hour, or stay for the full event. Our volunteer activities are suitable for ages 13 and up, but volunteers under 18 years old must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. If you are interested in a volunteer event for younger children, please contact us.
The October 18th workday will focus on clearing invasive vines from a planting site where we plan to install a new native meadow. Invasive vines can rapidly out-compete native seedlings, so we need to clear these plants out of the area before we sow native seeds later this fall. This workday will involve using hand clippers or loppers to cut back the vines. Our staff will provide all necessary training for those who are not familiar with invasive plants.
This power line meadow installation project is generously supported by the Northern Virginia Electric Cooperative. Thank you!
Parking directions: This event will NOT begin from the Leopold's Preserve public parking lot. The approximate parking location is 16134 Thoroughfare Rd. When you arrive on Thoroughfare Road, please follow the directional signage that will be posted on the side of the road. It will lead you to a small mowed parking area located under power lines.
Attire: all volunteers must wear closed-toe shoes and long pants to protect against thorns, insect bites, and poison ivy. Anyone who is dressed inappropriately (shorts, sandals, etc.) will not be allowed to volunteer. To keep yourself comfortable, we recommend bringing a hat, sunscreen, and bug spray.
Equipment: please bring your own pair of protective work gloves. The gloves should be made of a sturdy material such as leather. If you can, please bring a pair of garden clippers (pruners or similar). There is no running water available on site - you must bring your own bottle of water to drink.
Keep an eye on your inbox on the day before the event. We'll send you details about where to meet and what to expect.
