5 Volunteer Opportunities in May that Get You Outside

As spring and summer bring warmer weather, the draw of being outside more often can be an irresistible urge. But for some of us who may be shackled by the sedentary habits of pandemic life in winter, we may need a little push. That's one benefit of choosing to volunteer for outdoor nature projects like cleaning up garbage from the Jordan River, fighting invasive weeds, planting diverse and native vegetation, and otherwise beautifying our trails, canyons, parks, and open spaces. It's the kind of volunteer work that feels good and makes an impact, but it's also a great way to enjoy more time outside.

So if you need that gentle push to get outside and be service-oriented, or if any of those activities speak to your interests, then consider these five volunteer projects you can sign up for today with Salt Lake City's Trails and Natural Lands division.

May 6 - Weed Warriors at H-Rock Open

Thursday May 6 from 1:00-3:00 PM is the perfect afternoon escape to get some fresh air and do some good. Not only is tackling invasive weeds like Myrtle Spurge an important undertaking, it's also incredibly satisfying. Sign-up here to grab the few remaining volunteer slots for this event.

May 12 - Jordan River Garbage Grab

Wednesday May 12, from 10:00 AM to noon is the best way to work up a midweek lunch appetite cleaning up litter and garbage from the greenspace along the banks of the Jordan River. For the extra adventurous, yanking lodged debris straight from the river with a grappling hook is a particularly satisfying feat. Sign-up here to secure a spot in this limited capacity volunteer event.

May 13 - Weed Warriors at Ensign Peak

Thursday May 13 from 1:00 - 3:00 PM is another chance to tackle invasive weeds and uproot the biodiversity killer known as Myrtle Spurge. Long sleeves, gloves, and eye protection are key, but once you're ready to rock and roll, the plucking of the Spurge can be a rollicking good time. Take the afternoon off for some outside rejuvenation in the form of service, and earn that pre-weekend beverage that you're sure to crave afterwards. Sign-up here to join the effort.

May 20 - Weed Warriors at Parley's Historic Nature Park

It might sound weird, but be prepared to hear "hey look how much of the root system I got on this one!" from complete strangers, only to hear yourself saying it right back a minute later. The pride you'll feel is real, the work is compelling, and the impact you'll make is truly larger than you think. It's not glamourous, but get those gloves on because it's a holler of a good time. Sign-up here to check times and to nab a spot.

May 26 - Jordan River Garbage Grab Redux

With these Jordan River Clean-up events, not only are you helping to beautify the natural landscape, but you may learn something too. As you provide a critical service in keeping our river healthy, you can see firsthand what makes the Jordan River such a remarkable a biodiversity hotspot in our valley as well as prime recreation corridor/green ribbon. These volunteer events have been eye-opening for many folks who have returned again and again to clean, recreate and enjoy the Jordan River in a number of ways. Sign-up here to reserve a spot and to check times.

While you'll definitely want to bring your mask, and practice sensible behavior conducive to public health, keep in mind that it's easy to socially distance outside during these events and still have a socially engaging time with fellow community members working together for a greater good. It's social, it's safe, it's fun, it's outside, it's impactful. What could be better!