Once farmland and woodlots, more than 50 years of natural succession have created rich areas of forests, thickets, meadows, and prairies to explore at Carriage Hill. Farm life in the 1880s comes alive at the historical farm, complete with period farm animals. There are also acres of peaceful beauty to enjoy on foot or horseback. The park has been a favorite place for families to spend quality time together for generations. Come and join us for a spell. Your participation in a Make a Difference Day volunteer service project allows MetroParks to continue its mission to protect the region's natural heritage and provide outdoor experiences that inspire a personal connection with nature.
Impact
Protecting open space and natural areas is a priority for Five Rivers MetroParks, which protects nearly 16,000 acres of land — 90 percent of it in its natural state. Conservation volunteers are a part of our regional conservation story by assisting in implementing a variety of natural area management plans.
Tasks
Under the supervision of the assigned staff, volunteers will support and assist with the following:
- improving and maintaining a field replanted in native trees. These trees are still growing and need some assistance with tree tube removal and the introduction of capsaicin tablets to help prevent animal browsing.
Eligibility
- This opportunity is open to the following volunteers: Long-Term, Short-Term, Public Service, Youth, and Groups. Learn more about our types of service here.
- Background Check: We do not require a background check for our public volunteer opportunities; however, persons with a criminal record may be disqualified and prohibited from service. Please review our background check policy here. For those required to complete Court Appointed Community Service, please click here.
Additional Notes
- Parking & Meeting Instructions: Click here for a map of Carriage Hill MetroPark. Volunteers should park at the Visitor Center: 7800 E. Shull Rd., Dayton, OH 45424, and look for the 'Volunteer Event' signage.
- Cancelation: If you need to cancel a shift last minute or are running late, please call the project staff lead, Nick Wheeler, at (937) 508 9833.
- Environment & Physical Demands: This project takes place outdoors - Please be aware of outdoor exposure risks (i.e. sun, poison ivy, insects, etc.). Volunteers should be aware of seasonal allergies (i.e. grass, pollen, bees, etc.). We will be working in recently mowed area but be prepared for tall grass work. Volunteers can expect to participate in routine bending, kneeling, pulling, lifting, and cutting.
- Dress: Volunteers should dress for the weather, wear long pants, long sleeves, and closed-toe shoes, and have their favorite work gloves, water bottle, sunscreen, and bug spray.