Polk County Conservation
Join us at Iowa’s largest annual Earth Day event right here in the Des Moines Metro! A collaborative, metro‑wide tradition, Earth Day Trash Bash brings together partner organizations and thousands of volunteers across the Des Moines area to support a cleaner, healthier environment for central Iowa. Polk County Conservation staff will be on-site at Fort Des Moines Park, giving participants the chance to support meaningful habitat restoration in the woodlands and contribute to efforts that enhance local water quality and wildlife habitat. Volunteers can choose between removing invasive species along the shoreline to improve fishing access or joining a park‑wide litter cleanup. April 22nd @ 1 - 3 PM *Lunch will be provided for registered participants from 12 - 1 PM
-Remove invasive species including honeysuckle, buckthorn, round leaf bittersweet, and others to aid in the reestablishment of native trees, grasses, sedges, and wild flowers. -Promote the growth of native vegetation to improve wildlife habitat, biodiversity, water quality, and overall health of the woodland ecosystem. -Remove litter throughout the park to help improve water quality and support healthier wildlife habitat -Learn about the history and importance of Earth Day
For questions please contact: Conservationvolunteers@polkcountyiowa.gov For day of event questions please contact our volunteer coordinators: Julie Perreault | 515-323-5351 Melissa Dempsey | 515-323-5396 Polk County Conservation strives to host inclusive, accessible events and meetings that enable all individuals to participate. If you anticipate needing a modification due to a disability or have questions about accessibility, please contact us at 515-323-5300 or pccb_info@polkcountyiowa.gov.
This event is appropriate for ages 8+. No experience necessary. - Ages 12+ will be permitted the use of hand tools - Ages 18+ will be permitted the use of power tools and equipment. Physical difficulty: Moderate. As an invasive species volunteer you will use loppers, handsaws, and reciprocating saws to cut and remove trees, shrubs, and vines. This role will require bending at the knees, standing, kneeling, and dragging brush material into piles. What to Bring: Dress for the weather. Dress for the weather. Required - closed-toe footwear. Recommended – long pants, long socks, work gloves, and clothes you don’t mind getting dirty. Bring a lawn chair, blanket, etc. for the picnic. Gloves provided for those without. Support our commitment to sustainability by bringing a reusable water bottle to the event. Each event participant will be provided proper personal protective equipment and training as needed.
By registering for this event, I acknowledge I am filling an open position and signing up for a free meal. In the event that I and/or members of my group are unable to attend, I will cancel my registration to allow for others to join this event.
