Leave a trace by volunteering at your local park, Brunswick or beyond | Column

Maine Residents Invited to Lend a Hand in Local Parks

A new call to action is urging people across Maine to volunteer at their local parks, emphasizing how even a single afternoon can help keep green spaces healthy and encourage long‑term stewardship.

The invitation comes as the National Park Service reports a $24 billion backlog of deferred maintenance for the country’s 4,000 parks, a number that underscores the growing need for community help. Meanwhile, California’s state‑park system logged nearly 800,000 volunteer hours in 2024—worth an estimated $32 million—of which about 7 % went toward invasive‑species removal and habitat restoration.

Why Volunteers Matter

Local parks and recreation departments are on the front lines of maintaining public spaces. A survey by the National Recreation and Park Association found that 80 % of adults view their local park system as the natural place to volunteer. The most common tasks—picking up litter, planting trees, raking leaves for compost—may seem routine, but they have measurable benefits. In Portland, Oregon, a 2015 study of park stewards showed that those who returned six or more times a year practiced more pro‑environmental habits at home, while those with ten or more shifts were more likely to contact elected officials about conservation.

“Frequency of participation is key,” the study noted. “One shift is just the starting point, but the cumulative effect grows with each visit.”

Getting Involved Is Easy

Local park departments keep lists of volunteer opportunities on their websites or by phone. Residents can pick a morning or afternoon that fits their schedule—whether it’s trail maintenance, invasive‑species removal, or staffing a visitor desk. Bringing a friend or family member can double the enjoyment and sense of accomplishment. If the shift proves worthwhile, many volunteers schedule their next visit before leaving.

The National Park Service’s “Volunteers‑in‑Parks” program, for instance, mobilizes almost 300,000 people each year, contributing more than 6.5 million hours—an annual value exceeding $185 million. While the U.S. has a park for roughly every 2,400 residents, many still rely on volunteers to keep the grounds safe and welcoming.

What Volunteers Say

“Volunteering is a simple way to give back to the places we love,” said Fred Horch, co‑founder of Sustainable Practice. “Even a single afternoon of work—pulling weeds, painting a fence—helps create a healthier environment for everyone.”

Peggy Siegle, co‑author of Your Earth Share: Seven Pathways to Sustainable Living, added, “The more time you give, the more you’ll notice the difference it makes, not just in the park but in your own lifestyle and community.” She emphasized that “the time you give is entirely up to you, from a couple of hours to a lifetime.”

The Bigger Picture

Beyond immediate maintenance, volunteers help shape the long‑term health of parks. Invasive plants are a major threat to native ecosystems, and early removal can prevent costly, large‑scale cleanups later. Trees planted today provide shade, wildlife habitat, and carbon sequestration for generations to come. Volunteers also act as informal watchdogs, spotting nesting birds or potential hazards that might otherwise go unnoticed.

For those looking to make a tangible impact, the call is simple: start with the park nearest to you. Check the local recreation department’s website or give them a quick call. Sign up for a shift, bring a friend if the role allows, and consider scheduling your next visit if the experience feels rewarding. Over time, those small contributions can add up to significant environmental and community benefits.

Join the Movement

The Sustainable Practice organization invites Maine residents to take advantage of this opportunity. Whether you’re a seasoned volunteer or a first‑timer, your help can keep parks clean, safe, and inviting for future generations. To learn more about how to get involved and to read about other sustainable practices, visit SustainablePractice.Life or reach out to the organization for guidance.

Together, a handful of volunteers can transform a park—one shift at a time.