The Columbus Audubon Service in the Preserves program has been providing volunteers to help maintain Ohio’s nature preserves since 1982! Working with Ohio’s Division of Natural Areas and Preserves, groups of volunteers visit Ohio’s most scenic and important natural areas to perform critical maintenance tasks monthly. The work ranges from removing invasive species and planting natives to maintaining trails and building boardwalks.
Originally started by long-time Columbus Audubon leader Katryn Renard, the program is now headed by Natalia Nekrasova. Columbus Audubon currently has a list of over 80 volunteers who have participated in SiP work trips.
For more information about the program, see the Columbus Audubon web site. If your chapter is interested in similar work, you can join Columbus Audubon volunteers on a trip to your part of the state — or start your own Service program. Katryn Renard has generously shared two documents to help: a description and history of the SiP program, and a Quick Start guide.