Special REAP Eco-Restoration Kick-Off at Lyman Woods!

Hello, all!

On Saturday, February 7 from 1-3:30 PM, Lyman Woods Nature Center will be hosting an eco-restoration kick-off for our REAP (Restore, Educate, and Preserve) volunteer group, and we’d love you to join in!

Connecting with fellow community members and learning more about how we can care for this ecosystem together is what this event is all about! At the end of the workday, we’ll gather around a campfire to share snacks and s’mores.

RSVP for the Workday HERE.

What is an eco-restoration workday?

Lyman Woods is home to diverse plants, animals, and ecosystems—and like all natural areas, it needs a helping hand to stay healthy. Eco-restoration workdays give community members the chance to actively support the land through hands-on activities such as invasive species removal, seed collecting, and seasonal habitat care.

For this REAP kick-off, volunteers will focus on removing invasive species—sometimes called “ecosystem bullies,” like buckthorn and multiflora rose. These plants are not native to our region and tend to spread aggressively, crowding out the native plants that wildlife depends on. By removing them, volunteers help restore balance and create space for native species to thrive.

Why volunteer?

Community volunteers play a vital role in keeping Lyman Woods healthy and vibrant. Many volunteers find that restoration work fosters a strong sense of connection and ownership, especially when caring for nature close to home. By joining REAP, you become part of a community that truly cares about local land and wildlife.

When & where?

Saturday, February 7 at 1:00 PM until 3:30 PM--at 3 we will commune at the campfire pit for s'mores and snacks! Feel free to bring a snack to share among others.

Meet in front of the Lyman Woods Nature Center

901 31st Street, Downers Grove

Who can participate?

All are welcome!

• • Participants must complete a volunteer waiver (attached).
  • Volunteers under 14 years old must attend with an adult.
  • Volunteers under 18 years old need a parent/guardian signature on their waiver.

What should I wear?

Please wear comfortable clothes you don’t mind getting dirty. We recommend:

• • Sturdy, closed-toed shoes
  • Long pants
  • Layers for winter weather
  • Water bottle
  • Bug spray and sunscreen (weather-dependent)

Want to learn more or sign up?

RSVP for the Workday HERE. Feel free to reach out to volunteer@dgparks.org or cangarone@dgparks.org with any questions. You can also visit the Volunteer Calendar on the Downers Grove Park District website to view upcoming workdays and RSVP.

We hope you’ll join us for this cozy, meaningful, and community-driven start to the REAP season. Together, we can help Lyman Woods thrive—one workday at a time.

Warm Wishes,