Volunteer Marsh Planting - Cohort Registration Now Open

By Staff

May 26, 2025

BURLINGTON, ON

Volunteers will be required to attend a 1-hour virtual training session on May 29 @ 6:30PM

Register here: Marsh Volunteer Planting 2025

The first planting event is scheduled for May 31.

BARC is excited to launch our 2025 Marsh Volunteer Planting (MVP!) group for another fun summer of nature restoration!

Since the 1990s, volunteers have played an essential role in helping Bay Area Restoration Council (BARC) and Royal Botanical Gardens (RBG) plant native wetland species in Cootes Paradise and Grindstone Marshes to provide food and shelter for wildlife and improve water quality by stabilizing soil and reducing erosion.

We are excited to launch the 2025 Marsh Volunteer Planting group for another fun summer of nature restoration! Be aware that planting can get very muddy – it is messy but rewarding work! BARC provides rubber boots, hip waders, or chest waders depending on site requirements.

What is the time commitment for joining Marsh Volunteer Planting?

Volunteers will be required to attend a 1-hour virtual training session on May 29 from 6:30-7:30pm.

Three to four planting events will run throughout the summer, and we ask that you commit to attending at least one 2.5 hour planting event. There will be a mix of daytime, evening and weekend events.

The first planting event is scheduled for May 31.

How strenuous are Marsh Volunteer Planting events?

Marsh Volunteer Planting events require moderate to high activity levels. Planting sites are located in a wetland environment and the terrain can be rugged and difficult to navigate. Please consider your own physical fitness level and medical history to decide if this activity is right for you. If you have any questions about accessibility, please contact BARC staff and we will do our best to accommodate you.

How old do you need to be to attend an event?   Due to the nature and location of the planting sites, these events are not suitable for children. You must be at least 16 years old to participate. An adult guardian must sign a waiver for anyone under 18.

Why volunteer as a Marsh Volunteer Planter?   The Hands-on experience in planting native marsh vegetation is a chance to visit and learn about unique marsh ecosystems with BARC and RBG staff

The opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals who care about the environment

Refreshments and all necessary equipment provided by BARC

Sign-off for volunteer hours if requested.

A Certificate of Completion is available to volunteers who complete the orientation session and attend a minimum of 2 marsh planting events in one summer.

Interested in joining this cohort of MVPs? Please complete the registration form: Marsh Volunteer Planting 2025

Questions? Please email kaeley@bayarearestoration.ca