A Day At the “Beech” in January! Sebert Woods Workday with La Porte County Parks

Sebert Woods is an amazing park in rural Michigan City. Like our own Ambler Flatwoods, Sebert is a relict boreal forest featuring plant species that normally range much farther north. The property is operated by La Porte County Parks, who works to maintain and preserve the native habitat and its species in perpetuity. Part of that is maintaining the delicate ecological balance that makes forests like Sebert, Ambler, and the adjacent Wintergreen Woods unique. There are currently a host of beech saplings that are overtaking the understory in sections of the woods. American beech is a native species, but their abundant proliferation threatens some of the boreal species these relict communities are known for. This imbalance will eventually change the entire character of the forest if left unchecked.

Shirley Heinze is joining forces with La Porte County Parks to help remove these surplus beeches. This isn’t just any volunteer workday, it’s a “Beech Day!” And what day at the “beech” would be complete without beach balls and tiki torches in the sand? LPCP will also be providing chili and warm refreshments. Come out for a meaningful service experience, have some fun, and help protect the delicate harmony that locally rare species depend upon!

Be prepared to work outside and dress appropriately for the weather. Conditions on the workday may be wet and will likely be cold.  All the necessary gear and water will be provided, although we encourage you to bring your own reusable water bottle!

Please RSVP through the website form below. Question? Call the office at 219-242-8558 or email volunteer@heinzetrust.org.

Please fill out our online Volunteer Application prior to attending. Come lend a hand, enjoy some time out in the woods with fellow volunteers, and learn about other meaningful opportunities with La Porte County Parks and Shirley Heinze Land Trust!