Orland Grassland Volunteers To Celebrate Earth Day With Creek Cleanup

ORLAND PARK, IL — Orland Grassland Volunteers organization will celebrate Earth Day by clearing a creek of old farm debris, the group announced Tuesday.

On Saturday, April 26, from 9 a.m. to noon, the Orland Grassland Volunteers will gather at Orland Grassland Land and Water Reserve, IBA, FPCC. Parking is in the parking lot on 167th about 1/4 block west of La Grange in Orland Park. The event takes place across 167th Street at the Orland Grassland pole barn. Volunteers will work on the creek just east of the barn. This event is for those 18 years old and older.

"Last year we were amazed at what we pulled out of there from days of old and more recent times," said Pat Hayes, Site Steward. "Back in the day, our farms didn’t have garbage pick up like we do today. We’ve found that frequently the edges of creeks on the farms served the purpose."

Gloves, tools and guidance will be provided. Boots are recommended with socks that cover the ankles, jeans are best and long-sleeved shirts. There will be refreshments and cool water for drinking.

The Orland Grassland Volunteers will also be at the Tinley Park Earth Day Fair on April 26 from 10 a.m. til 2 p.m. at the Tinley Park Village Hall. You can visit them at the fair for more information about the site, its history and current eco-health status, and how to volunteer.

For more information, contact Pat Hayes at 708-220-9596 or ptihys@yahoo.com. Visit the volunteer website at http://www.orlandgrassland.org. Follow the group on Facebook at Orland Grassland Volunteers group, https://www.facebook.com/groups/435748.