Four ways to learn, lean in, and love Franklin Park and Fairfax

Oh deer, oh deer…

Master Gardeners of Northern Virginia will host a seminar on deer populations.

Are too many deer threatening our native flora and fauna…and what can be done about it? Master Gardeners of Northern Virginia host Prof. Bernd Blossey, Cornell University, Wednesday, February 22; 7 pm-8:30 pm.

Invasive plants are degrading our neighborhoods, our backyards, and park lands. These are non-native plants that can aggressively take areas decreasing biodiversity, impacting water quality, destroying habitat, killing trees, intensifying fires, and damaging agriculture. Many groups host invasives removal sessions. Volunteering is a great way to learn more and meet like-minded folks who want to lend a hand helping restore our environment.

The problem of invasive plants…how can I help? Volunteer with one of the following:

Earth Sangha

Fairfax County Park Authority

UFA/FACA Community Workdays

Earth Sangha - This is a nonprofit public charity based in the Washington, DC, region. They operate a volunteer-based program to propagate local native plants, restore native plant communities, and control invasive alien plants. One important project is restoring Marie Butler Leven Preserve located at 1501 Kirby Road, McLean. Volunteer slots are available every Wednesday.

Fairfax County - The Park Authority hosts days during which nearly anyone can get involved in helping restore our park lands. McLean Central Park has openings, as well as other local parks. Check out their webpage and their calendar, below.

UFA - FACA - Last, but not least is the work we are doing RIGHT HERE IN FRANKLIN PARK!! There are two Restoration Gardens that we are stealing back from invasive vines and other nasties! Look for upcoming workdays on either the ‘Vermont Ave Project’ or the Birch Road Restoration Garden. The link below talks about our latest gathering on January 28. Keep posted for upcoming Community Workdays!