The Iowa Department of Natural Resources is putting out a call for volunteers to help clean up five state parks tomorrow. Linda King, volunteer coordinator for the DNR, says the work will involve picking up trash and sticks and possibly some painting.
The state park clean up is part of the national “9-11 Call to Service” — an effort to unite one million Americans through volunteering in honor of the victims of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.
King expects the parks will need a lot of attention. “We’re hoping for a big turnout. Over the last few three day holidays, our state parks have had a lot more garbage and litter left behind,” King said. “That’s why we’re doing it on Tuesday after the long Labor Day weekend to help our park rangers pick up the parks.”
Volunteers are urged to come prepared for some serious labor. King suggests volunteers bring gloves, wear closed toed shoes and bring something to drink.
The five parks involved in the volunteer effort are Lake Ahquabi near Indianola, Big Creek in Polk County, Backbone State Park near Dubuque, Lake of Three Fires in southwest Iowa’s Taylor County and Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area near Cedar Rapids.
Times and meeting locations:
· Big Creek State Park, 9 to 11 a.m. Meet at the beach parking lot
· Lake Ahquabi State Park, 9 to 11 a.m. Meet at the beach shelter
· Backbone State Park, 8 to 11 a.m. Meet at the beach shelter by the south gate
· Lake of Three Fires State Park, 9 to 11 a.m. Meet at the park office
· Pleasant Creek State Recreation Area, 2 to 4 p.m. Meet at the day use lodge on the south side of the lake
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