Volunteers Sought For Earth Day Tree Planting In Kane Co.

KANE COUNTY, IL — The Kane County Forest Preserve District is seeking volunteers to hep plant trees at Elburn Forest Preserve on Earth Day on April 20.

Volunteers are needed to help plant hundreds of bur oak trees at Elburn Forest Preserve. The forest preserve is located at 1N750 Reed Street in Elburn, according to a news release.

All trees will be planted in a couple of hours, and we can use as many helpers as possible. The planting process is simple — volunteers will plant trees in pre-dug holes, tamp down dirt, add water and mulch.

The event kicks off at 9 a.m. and volunteers will aim to have all trees in the ground by 11 a.m. The event will also include a naturalist-led hike at 10:30 a.m.

Throughout the morning, volunteers can enjoy a pop-up naturalist exhibit, test their luck with the wheel of prizes game and stop by the Kane Forest Preserve Foundation table for valuable information and giveaways. Donations are graciously accepted, with proceeds directly supporting the Forest Preserve District of Kane County, according to a news release

Forest Preserve Natural Resources Manager Jason Johnson has celebrated 25 Earth Days with the district and continues to tout the importance of the annual event.

“Our Earth Day celebration is a great way to give back to your local preserve and the environment,” Johnson said. “Your contribution will help convert a 7-acre hay field, previously used for agriculture, back into a thriving woodland."

“Earth Day serves as a reminder to us all that it's everyone’s responsibility to take care of our planet if we would like it to continue to take care of us,” he added.

This volunteer opportunity is ideal for individuals, families, scout troops, youth groups, and organizations alike, according to a news release. Whether you plant one tree or a dozen, every contribution counts towards a greener future.

Don’t forget to bring your own work gloves for planting, and a lawn chair or blanket if you plan to stay and enjoy the band, according to a news release.

Those planning to stop out with groups of ten or more should contact the volunteer coordinator at 630-762-2741 or email CleaveRobb@kaneforest.com to register. Groups of less than 10 are welcome to join without RSVP.

Parking is available at the main lot at 1N750 Reed Street as well as at Elburn American Legion Post #630 and the back lot at Obscurity Brewing. There will be tractor-pulled wagon rides located at Shelter A to bring you to the planting site.

For more information about the Earth Day tree planting event at Elburn Forest Preserve, visit www.kaneforest.com, call 630-232-5980, or find us on social media @forestpreserve.