Volunteer at Mary S. Young Park to remove invasive species, coordinate trails building and repair. Volunteers assist with removal of clematis, blackberries, tree ivy and holly and do ongoing trail work and reapair throughouthe year.
Frequently asked questions about Mary S. Young Volunteers:
Who are “Mary S. Young Volunteers” and what do they do?
We are dedicated to the restoration of the riparian habitat for citizen education, recreation and enjoyment. We work in cooperation with the City of West Linn, Parks and Recreation. With this vision to return the park to its native habitat we take several approaches. With the removal of invasive plants, the reintroducing of appropriate native plants, and the restoration of streambeds, the flora and fauna may return to its near original state. We also promote the development of excellent walking trails and general park maintenance.
What is an invasive plant?
A non-native plant that establishes easily and spreads aggressively into new areas and environments, often with detrimental effects on native plant species.
What are native plants?
A native (indigenous) species is one that occurs in a particular region, ecosystem, and habitat without direct or indirect human actions. Species native to North America are generally recognized as those occurring on the continent prior to European settlement.
What is a riparian habitat?
Areas adjacent to rivers and streams with a differing density, diversity, and productivity of plant and animal species relative to nearby uplands. Habitat that is next to, or affected by, water sources such as rivers, creeks, lakes and springs. These areas often shelter plants and animals that couldn't survive in nearby areas.
What is flora and fauna?
The plant and animal life of a specific ecosystem.
What is the flora and fauna of the northern Willamette Valley?
The region was once covered by rolling prairies, oak savanna, coniferous forests, extensive wetlands, and deciduous riparian forests. Today, it contains the bulk of Oregon’s population, industry, commerce, and agriculture. Productive soils and a temperate climate make it one of the most important agricultural areas in Oregon.
How can I help?
Help with monthly plant removal
Donate money to support the funding of work crews
Volunteer to be a resource advisor for our board
This is an on going challenge and we need your energy and help to reclaim and restore. We cannot do this without you. We need to pull together! Can you dig it?
In 1969 Congress passed the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) that provides statutory protection of natural ecosystems on federal lands, and also offers the public the opportunity to consider the environmental implications of revegetating federal landscaped with introduced versus native plants (Richards 1998). Then in 1995, 9 federal agencies and 53 organizations created the Native Plant Conservation Initiative National Strategy for the protection of native plants. Work on the National Strategy is continued today by the Plant Conservation Alliance.
The Mary S Young Volunteers have formed a non-profit organization to align with their mission of eradicating Mary S Young Park of invasive species. This group, in cooperation with the Parks and Recreation Department, provides oversight and coordination of volunteer projects at Mary S Young.
Please consider donating to this volunteer group by sending your tax deductible donation to: Mary S Young Park Volunteers, c/o Parks and Recreation, 22500 Salamo Road, West Linn Oregon 97068.
We hope to see you at the park or on the trails!