(Radio Iowa) - Tens of thousands of people enjoy Iowa's state parks every year, and this weekend, Iowa's park system is asking for a little help in return.
Saturday is the annual Volunteer Day for Iowa's parks. Mary Runkel, the D-N-R's statewide volunteer and outreach coordinator, says 14 state parks and a state forest are hosting events -- and they could use a hand with a variety of chores. That could include things like picking up litter, planting trees, removing invasive plants or painting picnic tables. The 15 locations are spread across the state and it's likely a park near you could use a few more helpers who could spare two or three hours.
Runkel says to bring a water bottle, gloves, sunscreen, bug spray, snacks and wear clothes that can get dirty or stained. Learn more at Iowa DNR.gov/volunteer.