Volunteer!

Homewood Izaak Walton Preserve has been 100% volunteer-run since its start. Everything that happens in the preserve is due to the dedication of its volunteers.Anyone who wishes to volunteer is highly encouraged to help out! Although it is recommended, you do not have to be a member to help. Stop by Senior Hall at 1100 Ridge Road and ask about volunteering options available. For example:

  • Trail Restoration and Maintenance

  • Grounds Management

  • Controlled Burns

  • Invasive Species Management

  • Specialized Projects

Trail Restoration and Maintenance

Trails require constant upkeep. Trail Restoration and Maintenance includes building up trails that are damaged due to erosion, managing vegetation growth surrounding the trails, and the general maintenance of bridges and fences within the preserve.

Grounds Management

The area around Senior Hall is known as "The Grounds." It takes a team of dedicated volunteers to help maintain what may be considered the heart of the preserve. Trash disposal, pavilion upkeep, grass and bush trimming, and flowerbed maintenance are just some of the many
tasks needed to maintain this area.

Controlled Burns

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The Homewood Izaak Walton Preserve in Homewood has been conducting controlled burns for many years. These burns help eliminate non-native vegetation and promote healthy prairie and wooded areas for all to enjoy, including the wildlife that lives in our preserve.

All of our efforts are accomplished with the generous help offered by those willing to volunteer their time. If you would like to help, or you have questions, please download the following PDF for more information.

Invasive Species Management

Invasive species management involves specialized weed management strategies to suppress invasive plant species on grazing land, conservation land and biologically diverse natural areas.

Invasive plant species grow and reproduce rapidly, causing major changes in vegetative cover wherever they become established. Left unchecked, "invasives" can overtake desirable plants and significantly degrade grasslands, wetlands, and woodlands.

Special Projects

Special projects include events like the annual 4th of July picnic or Thanksgiving turkey raffle, or specialized tradeswork needed to maintain the grounds, buildings, or natural areas of the preserve. These volunteers are generous enough to donate their time and skills to help improve
the preserve and make our events a success.