The St. Louis Forestry Division’s Natural Land Management Team is looking for mulching volunteers!

Back in November, we planted over 500 trees and shrubs with help from volunteers! Now we are going back to mulch as many as we can before Spring. Mulching helps discourage weed growth and keeps soil temperatures and moisture levels regulated so the new tree/shrub can thrive.

We will meet at the Livingston Dr/Holly Hills Dr intersection off Holly Hills Blvd. Volunteers are asked to wear sturdy footwear, dress in layers (February weather can be unpredictable!), and bring their own gloves and water bottles.

Project Background:

The Natural Land Management (NLM) team works to establish and restore native habitat within city parks. In 2024, certain areas of Carondelet Park were clear cut to remove excessive overgrowth and make way for a new recreational bike trail. The clearing of these areas brought an opportunity to establish new native habitat that would also allow for park user interface via the bike trail. Establishment of native habitat would also benefit the trail by providing shade, beauty, wildlife interest, and insulation from roadways. The NLM team has been working since May 2024 to continue invasive species removal while also adding beneficial natives species back into the environment.