Community Invited to Join Native Plant Restoration Efforts This October

The St. Lawrence Eastern Lake Ontario Partnership for Regional Invasive Species Management (SLELO PRISM) invites community members to roll up their sleeves and help restore local habitats through a series of native planting events this October.

Whether you enjoy gardening, spending time outdoors, or contributing to hands-on conservation projects, these volunteer planting days offer a meaningful way to make a difference. Participants will help establish native plants at restoration sites across the region, supporting ongoing efforts to improve habitat health, strengthen ecosystem resilience, and protect the natural landscapes that make our communities such special places to live, work, and explore.

"Every native plant added to the landscape contributes to healthier ecosystems and stronger wildlife habitat," said SLELO PRISM. "These restoration projects are a chance for community members to directly support regional conservation efforts and help protect the waterways, wetlands, forests, and open spaces that define our area."

No experience is necessary. Volunteers of all skill levels are welcome, and all tools, materials, and guidance will be provided. Participants are encouraged to wear weather-appropriate clothing and be prepared for outdoor work.

Community members interested in participating are encouraged to register in advance online at sleloinvasives.org/events or contact the SLELO PRISM Education & Outreach Coordinator at 315-522-1258 for more information.

Restoration Planting Schedule:

October 15th, 2026

When: 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. (tentative)

Where: 269 Ouderkirk Road, Pulaski, NY

What: Sort and plant native species into raised beds

October 17th, 2026

When: 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. (tentative)

Where: El Dorado Preserve, Grand Jean Road, Henderson, NY

What: Plant native species at the preserve

By volunteering, participants will not only help establish native vegetation but also contribute to long-term conservation efforts that support clean water, wildlife habitat, and the health and beauty of the St. Lawrence Eastern Lake Ontario region for future generations.

About SLELO PRISM

SLELO PRISM (St. Lawrence–Eastern Lake Ontario Partnership for Regional Invasive Species Management) is part of New York State’s collaborative PRISM network, which works to prevent, detect, and manage invasive species to protect native habitats, biodiversity, and freshwater resources. Hosted by The Nature Conservancy, SLELO focuses its efforts in Oneida, Oswego, Jefferson, Lewis, and St. Lawrence counties in New York State (NYS).

The statewide PRISM network is funded by the NYS Environmental Protection Fund and administered by the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation and hosted by various organizations. Its mission is to provide a unified, statewide approach to invasive species management by coordinating local partners, training volunteers, conducting outreach, and implementing control and restoration efforts across eight regions.

Learn more about SLELO PRISM at www.sleloinvasives.org.