Volunteers help at Five Rivers MetroParks 31st annual Adopt-a-Park

DAYTON — Five Rivers MetroParks held its 31st annual Adopt-a-Park cleanup event Saturday in honor of Earth Day.

Volunteers of all ages helped remove trash, plant trees, repair trails, and prepare flower beds at more than 2 dozen sites.

Volunteers received a free lunch at Riverscape and a T-shirt for their efforts.

"We see families, individuals, church groups, students and children participate in Adopt-a-Park,” said Kevin Kepler, volunteer services manager for Five Rivers.

“The community really comes out in full force, which is great because all this important work couldn't be accomplished without our dedicated volunteers. It's the perfect occasion to celebrate Earth Day with your fellow Daytonians,” Kepler said.

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Last year, more than 1,800 volunteers removed 65,000 pounds of trash, 32 miles of river ways were cleaned and more than 15 acres of invasive plants were removed, according to a press release.

"I think the success of this event reflects the community's support of MetroParks' mission to protect the region's natural heritage," said Kepler.

Adopt-a-Park is sponsored by Vectren and Barrett Paving Materials, Inc.

To find out more about Five Rivers MetroParks, log on to www.metroparks.org or call 937-275-PARK (7275).