Arboretum volunteers talking trees during next work day

”This is the second year of seasonal volunteer events we've hosted,” said Lucinda Mays, Chadron State College public horticulturist. “Chadron State College benefits from the help of the community to maintain the campus arboretum to its full potential and we want to give back to the community through ‘learn and do’ days like what we have planned for March 26. This event helps people learn how to take care of their trees at home.”

Doak Nickerson, Nebraska State Forestry district forester, will provide the tree pruning demonstration.

A coffee break seed swap is planned, so the group encourages those attending to bring along extra seeds from past seasons to swap with others and get a little jump start on their vegetable and flower gardens.

Work days are planned for each season throughout the year to provide the opportunity for community members to learn more about working with plants of the High Plains and landscape gardening techniques. Each work day begins with a mini-lesson and demonstration of the work to be done and is followed by up to two hours of work activities.

“These are family friendly activities, so we encourage volunteers of all ages. We hope folks will come for all or part of the day, and we commit to end promptly at noon,” Mays said.

Volunteers are asked to bring what they have of lopping shears, hand pruners, pruning saws, garden spades and rakes. People are reminded to dress for the weather and activity, including gloves and a hat. Snacks will be provided, but volunteers are asked to bring their own coffee and drinking water. For more information contact Mays at 308-430-4186.