February 28 & 29: Willow Staking Volunteer Opportunity

Join the Open Space Council for two volunteer workdays to harvest willow stakes from George Winter Park on Friday February 28th and then plant them on the riverbank at Lower Meramec Park the following day, Saturday February 29th. Willow staking is an innovative technique that helps stabilize eroding riverbank by providing a natural plant root system. Volunteers are welcome to attend one or both work days. Please note space is limited for these events; registration is required. 

This is an excellent hands-on learning opportunity for conservation professionals, land owners, and members of the public interested in the process of willow staking.  We highly recommend volunteers come dressed to get wet and muddy. Volunteers should dress for the weather and wear close-toed waterproof boots.

Willow Harvesting Friday February 28th 9am – 12pm – RSVP here. 

For the willow harvesting event, volunteers will meet at the Goode Shelter in George Winter Park (401 Allen Rd, Fenton, MO 63026 in the park) and will engage in willow harvesting activities including cutting of the stakes, sharpening of the stakes, and preparing the stakes for transport.

Willow Staking Saturday February 29th 9am – 12pm – RSVP here. 

For the willow staking event, volunteers will meet in the Lower Meramec Park Parking Lot (off 6841 Holzer Park Rd, St. Louis, MO 63128). Volunteers will install the willow stakes directly into the riverbank using a mallet.

Due to the terrain at the site, we ask that all volunteers are at least 18 years old. Work gloves and tools will be provided. In case of severe inclement weather, willow harvesting will be moved to Friday, March 6th and willow staking will be moved to Saturday March 7th.

Special thanks to our partners Great Rivers Greenway District, St. Louis County Parks, American Water Charitable Foundation and Open Space Council members for their support!

Have questions on the day of the event? Call the Open Space Council at 314-835-9225.