03-28-2012, 11:10 AM
WALSENBURG, CO. -Lathrop State Park will celebrate Earth Day this year with an opportunity for volunteers to get involved in the continuing effort to eradicate invasive Russian olive trees from the park shoreline and improve fishing access. Volunteers are needed for Saturday, April 21, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. to assist with moving and stacking pre-cut Russian olive stems and branches. Lunch, water, and snacks will be provided. If you are interested in helping, please call Brian Kerrigan at (719) 738-2376 or email brian.kerrigan@state.co.us to RSVP.
This family-friendly event will build upon previous years' eradication efforts. Since 2007, volunteers have contributed their time and effort to removing at least 8 acres of Russian olive trees around the shoreline of the park. Russian olives were introduced as ornamentals and wind breaks, but they compete with native trees that provide nesting and roosting for birds. They also consume water at a much higher rate than native trees.<br />
Join the Lathrop State Park staff for a fun-filled day and get involved with providing quality fishing access and improving habitat in the park. This will be the first of a series of Russian olive removal days throughout the summer.<br />
Lathrop State Park lies on a high plains grassland dotted with pinon and juniper and the majestic beauty of the Spanish Peaks. Lathrop is a popular place to enjoy summer boating, fishing, swimming, camping and hiking.<br />
Colorado Parks and Wildlife gets everyone outdoors! Attracting more than 12 million visitors per year, Colorado's 42 State Parks are a vital cornerstone of Colorado's economy and quality of life. Colorado State Parks encompass 224,447 land and water acres, offering some of the best outdoor recreation destinations in the state. Colorado Parks and Wildlife is a leader in providing opportunities for outdoor recreation, protecting the state's favorite landscapes, teaching generations about nature and partnering with communities. Colorado State Parks also manage more than 4,300 campsites, and 63 cabins and yurts. For more information on Colorado State Parks or to purchase an annual pass online, visit www.parks.state.co.us
This family-friendly event will build upon previous years' eradication efforts. Since 2007, volunteers have contributed their time and effort to removing at least 8 acres of Russian olive trees around the shoreline of the park. Russian olives were introduced as ornamentals and wind breaks, but they compete with native trees that provide nesting and roosting for birds. They also consume water at a much higher rate than native trees.<br />
Join the Lathrop State Park staff for a fun-filled day and get involved with providing quality fishing access and improving habitat in the park. This will be the first of a series of Russian olive removal days throughout the summer.<br />
Lathrop State Park lies on a high plains grassland dotted with pinon and juniper and the majestic beauty of the Spanish Peaks. Lathrop is a popular place to enjoy summer boating, fishing, swimming, camping and hiking.<br />
Colorado Parks and Wildlife gets everyone outdoors! Attracting more than 12 million visitors per year, Colorado's 42 State Parks are a vital cornerstone of Colorado's economy and quality of life. Colorado State Parks encompass 224,447 land and water acres, offering some of the best outdoor recreation destinations in the state. Colorado Parks and Wildlife is a leader in providing opportunities for outdoor recreation, protecting the state's favorite landscapes, teaching generations about nature and partnering with communities. Colorado State Parks also manage more than 4,300 campsites, and 63 cabins and yurts. For more information on Colorado State Parks or to purchase an annual pass online, visit www.parks.state.co.us