What to expect: Prepare to work outside for several hours and get dirty. It’s always possible to encounter ticks, poison ivy, and temperature extremes. (Hey… it’s nature! She’s sometimes unpredictable.)
Dates: Spring (April/May/June) and Fall (September/October/November) are ideal times for volunteer projects. We plan 6-12 weeks in advance and schedule events on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.
Time: Projects generally start at 9:00 am, and last about three hours.
Locations: Binky Lee, Bryn Coed, ChesLen, Stroud, and Willisbrook Preserves (Chester County); Hildacy Preserve (Delaware County); Gwynedd Preserve and Stoneleigh: a natural garden (Montgomery County); and more.
Who can volunteer: All are welcome, ages 12 and up. Note, trails are not ADA accessible. Minors (youth ages 12 to 17) must be accompanied by an adult.
Group size: Minimum 20 registrants, Maximum 25 people; capacity is determined by tools, parking, staff, and general property impact.
What to bring: Dress in seasonal layers with long pants and long-sleeved shirt, and wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes for walking on uneven ground. No shorts, flip-flops or sandals, please. Water bottles, a hat, insect repellent (that deters ticks), and sunscreen are all suggested.
Supplies: Tools are provided by Natural Lands; volunteers are also welcome to bring their own. Bring your own work gloves.
Cancellation policy: The scheduled workday may be cancelled in case of rain or extreme weather. Sorry, no rain dates.
Arranging a Group: Our Corporate Sponsor Partners receive priority for volunteer opportunities as a benefit of their support. We strive to schedule other groups when possible, though there is ample demand to fill most spaces in spring and fall. More information about Natural Lands Corporate Sponsor Program is found here.