Volunteer Workday @ Beverly Shores

The Great Marsh is an ecologically unique habitat that helps filter surface water as it travels on its journey to eventually drain into Lake Michigan. Be a significant part of the marsh restoration efforts of Shirley Heinze Land Trust by collecting seeds from native plants at our Beverly Shores Project Area. This volunteer workday will focus on gathering seeds from one or more of several species that will be ready for collection. These species include arrowhead, seed box, great water dock, rattlesnake mannagrass, sensitive fern, and spotted joe-pye weed.

We’ll meet at the corner of Wells Road and Beverly Drive at 9 am Central Time.  Shirley Heinze team members will help you identify the relevant plant species and show you how to collect the seeds.

Safety Information: Volunteers will be going off-trail in a marshy area with tall grass. The terrain may be uneven or retain standing water. Please wear sturdy shoes or boots, and take precautions against ticks and mosquitos by wearing long pants, socks, and optionally, gaiters. Protective gear, including gloves and safety glasses, will be provided. Bug spray will be available on-site. Please note that restrooms are not available at this location. Volunteers are encouraged to take breaks and work at their own pace—the Beverly Shores Marsh is a gorgeous area with plenty of incredible sedges, wildflowers, and waterfowl to admire!

Be prepared to work outside and dress appropriately for the weather. Conditions on the workday may be wet, warm, or even chilly. Volunteer workdays are held in all types of weather, although if conditions become hazardous during or leading into the workday, we may be forced to cancel abruptly. Your safety is our first concern!

If you have not volunteered with Shirley Heinze before, please sign up to be a volunteer and fill out our liability waiver online. Contact (219) 242-8558 if you have questions.