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Volunteers are needed through March to help remove invasive plants threatening trees and wildlife habitats in Fairfax City parks and woodlands.

The city’s Urban Forestry Stewardship Coordinator will lead Forest Rescue workdays at Kutner Park, Providence Park and Van Dyck Park. Participants will learn how to identify and remove non-native plants, including vines and dense brush that can overwhelm trees, displace native vegetation and contribute to declining songbird and wildlife populations.

Tools and training will be provided, along with educational materials volunteers can take home. Information will also be available about Forest Rescuer training workshops scheduled for Feb. 27 and March 10.

Upcoming volunteer workdays are Feb. 9, Feb. 22, March 1, March 5, March 15 and March 23. Groups may contact the Stewardship Coordinator to arrange another time by calling 703-223-5054.

Spring cleanup planned at Van Dyck Park

Fairfax City will hold its citywide Spring Community Cleanup from 9 a.m. to noon Sunday, April 6, 2025, at Van Dyck Park, 3720 Blenheim Blvd.

Individuals and groups are invited to help clear harmful debris from parks, forests, streams and neighborhoods. Volunteers can visit the park pavilion to receive snacks and supplies, including gloves, reflective vests, picker tools and trash bags, before heading to an assigned cleanup location. City refuse crews will collect the gathered litter after the event.

Participating households, homeowners associations, businesses and nonprofit organizations may apply for stormwater utility credits. City staff will be available at the pavilion to answer questions and assist with applications.

More information is available from city staff at stormwaterutility@fairfaxva.gov or 703-385-2578.