Volunteer workdays for invasive species removal

The volunteer workdays are available at the Long Island National Wildlife Refuge Complex. These workdays are a great opportunity for local residents to give back to the environment and help protect the native wildlife of Long Island.

Invasive species are a serious threat to the delicate ecosystems within the LIC. By volunteering to remove invasive plants, participants can help to:

Restore native habitats for birds, butterflies, and other wildlife.

Improve the overall health of the refuge ecosystem.

Learn about local plants and the importance of conservation.

The events are organized by The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service at the Long Island National Wildlife Refuge Complex (LIC). Workdays will be held at various locations including the Wertheim NWR (Shirley) on Saturday April 27 at 340 Smith Road in Shirley and 28 Meadow Lane in Brookhaven on Saturday, July 20 and Aug. 3. All workdays will run from 9 a.m. and noon. 

Volunteers will assist with tasks such as hand-pulling, digging, and cutting invasive plants. No former experience is necessary. All volunteers will receive training on invasive species identification and safe removal techniques. Tools and equipment will be provided.

Snacks, water refills, work gloves, insect repellent, and work tools will be supplied. Bring a refillable water bottle, sturdy close-toed shoes, light colored clothing, long pants, long socks, long sleeves, hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses. Ticks are prevalent.

Interested volunteers can sign up by contacting Biological Science Technician Brooke Shellman to RSVP at brooke_shellman@fws.gov or call 631-289-0485 ext. 2132.