This spring, the Fairfax County Park Authority invites the community to roll up their sleeves and support native plants and habitats during hands-on volunteer events across the county.

As part of the 20th anniversary of the Invasive Management Area IMA Volunteer Program, volunteers can help remove invasive plants, restore native habitats and protect Fairfax County’s forests — no experience required. Participants will receive a free “Take Back the Forest” T-shirt while supplies last.

Since its launch in 2006, the IMA program has grown into one of the region’s most impactful volunteer conservation efforts, with more than 4,000 volunteers each year working alongside trained site leaders to restore parklands, improve water quality and protect wildlife habitats.

"The Park Authority is grateful to have the support of volunteers to care for the natural areas,” said Patricia Greenberg, invasive plant management program manager at Fairfax County Park Authority. “It’s incredible to see how enthusiastic volunteers get when they remove invasive plants and see how quickly they give native plants a chance to thrive.”

Volunteer events will take place throughout April and May at parks across Fairfax County, with flexible opportunities ranging from 90 minutes to three hours.

Be part of the next chapter. Join the movement, make a difference and help shape the future of Fairfax County’s natural spaces.

To learn more and sign up, visit the Invasive Management Area Volunteer Program website.

The Invasive Management Area Program is sponsored by the Fairfax County Park Foundation. The Fairfax County Park Foundation, a 501(c)(3), supports the Fairfax County Park Authority by raising private funds, obtaining grants, and creating partnerships that supplement tax dollars to meet our community’s needs for park land, facilities, and services. Visit the Fairfax County Park Foundation website for more information or call 703-324-8582.