Volunteer Mornings Planned At Keepataw Preserve Near Lemont

LEMONT, IL — The Forest Preserve District of Will County is hosting volunteer mornings at various preserves throughout the fall, including at Keepataw Preserve near Lemont.

The Volunteer Morning program schedule has been released for October through December, the preserve said in a release. During the programs, volunteers will join staff from the Forest Preserve’s conservation department for preserve restoration activities.

“Because each preserve is unique, so is the management plan,” said Emily Kenny, the Forest Preserve’s volunteer services supervisor. “Some preserves can be visited year-round, while others are best worked on during specific seasons or conditions. No matter where you live in the county, each quarter we try to have an opportunity near you.”

In November, most volunteer programs are held on the weekends because that is prescribed burn season and burns take place on weekdays, according to the preserve.

At Keepataw Preserve, volunteer mornings will be held Oct. 2 and Nov. 19. There is no planned date in December.

Programs are from 8 a.m. to noon, recommended for ages 10 or older and they involve brush removal, according to the preserve. Here is the schedule:

Bringing water and snacks is recommended. Space is limited, and registration is required. To get started, complete a waiver online. For questions, contact Kenny at 815-722-7364 or volunteerservices@fpdwc.org.

Participants younger than 16 must be accompanied by an adult, the preserve said. Volunteers should wear clothes appropriate for the weather, getting dirty and being near a fire for brush control events.