Waltham Takes Part in Annual Park Serve Day

The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) encourages residents to lend a hand at state parks and beaches across the Commonwealth this Saturday, April 25, for the agency’s Annual Park Serve Day.

The Charles River Walkway in Waltham is one of the participating parks in the initiative.

Park Serve Day is a statewide day where volunteers pair up with staff from DCR to get Massachusetts parks and beaches ready for summer by cleaning coastlines, clearing trails, planting flowers, painting picnic tables, mowing, weeding and picking up litter.

“This effort is a true collaboration, in partnership with residents, friends groups and local officials, which will benefit the tens of thousands of visitors heading to DCR parks this season,” said DCR Commissioner Jack Murray in an announcement. “We all have a role to play in preserving and enhancing our forests and parks. Park Serve Day provides an opportunity for residents to experience our great resources first-hand and spread the word about what the Commonwealth has to offer.”

Events take place between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m., though hours vary by location and participants are encouraged to reach out to their local state parks to confirm event times.

DCR provides work gloves and equipment needed for the various projects, though participants may want to bring their own gloves or hand tools, clearly marked with the owner’s name and phone number. Power tools are not allowed. Wear sturdy shoes and work clothes, and bring sunscreen and insect repellent.