Volunteering
As with any volunteer group there are many tasks that need to be completed. If you have some time to direct toward helping to steward the Grand River then please consider applying by email. The following list includes tasks presently available:
Giant Hogweed Digging
Using a long-handled shovel, wearing boots and seasonal clothing in April. The task is to dig 6” (25 cm) deep and invert the plant material back into the hole - to retard or kill the plants. This is not easy work nor easy walking so set a comfortable goal of two hours per day until you find your strength. Locations of plants and ‘digging events’ will be shared.
Waiver: Required
Communications Coordinator
Establish mailing lists and assist in writing letters and emails.
Waiver: Not required
Scout
Search the shorelines by foot or by boat and report giant hogweed populations with photos and GPS coordinates. This task provides essential information for plant management and control. No tools are required for this other than a smartphone with data and location services activated.
Waiver: Not required
Giant Hogweed Seed Removal
Wearing a hazmat suit in hot conditions volunteers will cut seed heads from mature plants and carry the bagged seeds away for disposal. This task requires preparatory training in giant hogweed safety and in heat stress. Volunteers must be physically fit and healthy. Medical pre-screening may be required.
Waiver: Required
Landowner Liaison
Determine identity of landowners from address or GPS coordinates. Establish contact with landowners and include them in appropriate communications.
Waiver: Not required
Volunteering Opportunities
Volunteer Coordinator
Establish lists of volunteers - for communication and manage emails to keep the teams informed.
Waiver: Not required
Letter Writer
If the presence and expansion of giant hogweed concerns you or your loved ones then please consider writing letters to the people that can effect change. The pen can be mightier than the shovel and we need many letters to be written to many persons of authority. We can help by determining the party to address it to.
Waiver: Not required