Cleveland Metroparks offers drop-in service opportunities to community members without the commitment of becoming an ongoing volunteer.
These seasonal one-time service projects are perfect for individuals, families or for students looking to fulfill school service hour requirements. Drop-in service projects generally last 2-3 hours. Our drop-in service projects typically take place between April - October. Please sign up for one of our service days below by clicking on the appropriate event registration link and completing the appropriate registration form for each participant. Any youth registrations must be completed by a parent or legal guardian. If a volunteer is under the age of 16, they must be accompanied by an adult parent or guardian. Registration is available for events 60 days into the future only.
Exotic Mantid Removal
Help Natural Resources staff with the removal of non-native mantid species in Cleveland Metroparks! Two aggressive, non-native mantid species- the Chinese and European Mantids—are established throughout the area, preying on native bees and butterflies, including monarchs. Volunteers can help protect native insects by locating and removing their egg cases (oothecae) from the parks to reduce their populations.
Volunteers will work off trail through meadows and fields, carefully walking through tall grass and light brush to identify, collect, and remove exotic mantid egg cases. This role requires patience, attention to detail, and a drive to protect native species. Meeting location details will be emailed one day before the project.
Tuesday, December 16 @ Monarch Bluff Picnic Area, West Creek Reservation | 2 pm - 4 pm
Invasive Shrub Removal
Lend a hand and help with invasive plant management! The Natural Resources team will is seeking volunteer assistance in Lakefront Reservation. Volunteers will be helping staff cut back and remove invasive shrubs. Come prepared with sturdy work boots, long pants, gloves, and plenty of water. Hand tools and hearing coverage will be provided. This is a physically demanding project and due to the nature of the tasks, is only permitted for adult volunteers (age 18+).
Thursday, December 11 @ Lakefront Reservation | 9 am - 12 pm
Trails Work Days
Help our Trails team with restoration across Cleveland Metroparks! Projects include digging, moving dirt, branches, and logs, clearing debris, and restoring natural areas around new trails. Come prepared with sturdy work boots, long pants, gloves, and plenty of water. Hand tools and snacks will be provided. Meeting location directions will be emailed one day before the project.
Stay tuned for potential December dates to be posted soon!
Watershed Volunteer Program Public Events
If you are interested in attending one of our public volunteer events hosted by the Watershed Volunteer Program, please sign up via their Events page.