Thank you for your interest in joining the award-winning Anne Arundel County Bay Invaders project!
This unique project partners park rangers, volunteers, and AACPS teachers who work together to support 9th grade Environmental Science students from public high schools to learn about invasive plant species, develop a removal plan, and conduct a removal project in Anne Arundel County community and regional parks.
Project Timeline: February to April 2024
Minimum Volunteer Commitment: 15 hours
Benefitting High Schools: Annapolis, Crofton, Northeast, Severna ParkBenefitting Parks: Cool Pond Park, Crofton Park, Broad Creek Park, Tick Neck ParkVolunteer roles:
1) Classroom Presenter
- Present on invasive plant identification and management in 9th grade classrooms (PowerPoint, handout, and other materials provided)
2) Management Plan Reviewer
- Review invasive species management plans created by the students and submit feedback that will be reviewed in class by the teachers
- Provide insight on practical land management to enhance the student outcome
- This work can be completed at home and emailed in to the teacher
3) Field Assistant
- Continually engage students at removal locations and facilitate project outcomes
- Assist in identifying natives from non-native invasives
- Ensure use of proper non-native invasive plant removal techniques
- Supervise and motivate students
All project participants are asked to join an in-person orientation and training event on
Tuesday February 20th, 2024 from 4:30pm-7:30pm at Arlington Echo Outdoor Education Center, Great Room.
Please answer the following questions to gauge your experience and best place you with an opportunity. Experience is not required to participate in this project but baseline knowledge of local invasive plant species or experience working with high school students can be helpful.
Please note that all volunteers must pass a background check through Anne Arundel County Public Schools. Background checks from any other organization do not apply.
