Volunteer

Invasive Species Removal

Restoring degraded or eroding river banks, removing invasive species from on land and in the waterways, and putting in more native species, SMRF works with numerous volunteers to help restore the river and its watershed. Healthy native plants not only absorb and retain large amounts of rainfall but they can create a filter during storm events which limits the amount of sediment, debris and trash from going into the river. From planting cypress saplings along the riverbanks to removing water hyacinth, SMRF hopes to create an environment around the river which protects water quality, allows native species to thrive and makes our natural areas better able to handle and absorb heavy rainfall.

SMRF currently holds permits to remove water hyacinth from Spring Lake & the river, and holds removals once a month where volunteers are given the opportunity to help remove invasive species.

For 2026, this project currently occurs on the 3rd Saturday of each month between March-November, from 8 am noon either at Spring Lake or Sewell Park (depending on needs).

For more information or to register, contact: