Earth Keepers in Essex County

Known nationally as the first park open to the public in the United States, local treasure Essex County Branch Brook Park needs you! Volunteers will work directly with trained Rutgers Master Gardeners on behalf of Care of The Park at Essex County Branch Brook Park in partnership with Community Foundation of New Jersey.

• Remove invasive species

• Plant native plants

• Create and maintain restoration projects

• Maintain historic trails

The specific task will change weekly but includes one or all of the options noted above.

Need To Know:

• Claudia Kolster is the Program Manager at Jersey Cares responsible for engaging volunteers in this opportunity. You may reach her via email (claudia@jerseycares.org) with questions or call the office at (973) 533-1993 ext. 29.​

• ​Waivers: There are two for each volunteer. Adults attending the project, please help us expedite the "day-of-project" registration process by printing the Jersey Cares Adult Waiver & Essex County Waiver in advance, sign and bring with you. If you meet the age restriction and are under 18, please have a parent or legal guardian complete the required Jersey Cares Youth Waiver & Essex County Waiver and bring with you to the project. Click the links in this paragraph to download the waiver.

• Registration cutoff is 24 hours in advance of each occurrence start time. If you see an open slot and its less than 24 hours out, you may call the Jersey Cares office and speak with Claudia at (973) 533-1993 ext. 29. Please note, the office is closed on weekends and holidays. 

• We love large groups! Please note you must assign a Team Captain who will keep everyone motivated to achieve the goals set for the day. When creating a team in your "My Account" section please provide real names when registering. Plan ahead, confirm the names, then reach out to Claudia at Jersey Cares to assist with registration if needed. 

• This volunteer opportunity is labor intensive and on most days during the season it's hot out.

• Make sure to bring sunscreen and you might want to wear a hat.

• Bring work gloves, we have a limited supply of used gloves to provide. 

• Always wear closed-toed shoes.

• Supply water for yourself and anyone with you.

• Consider wearing bug repellent. 

• We dig-in, get dirty and recommend wearing clothes you are comfortable getting damaged.

• This is a rain or shine project. In case of dangerous weather, the project may be cancelled. Please stay aware of incoming messages regarding updates to the occurrence. ​

• Also, look for this sign in the park, it's where you will find the Rutgers Master Gardeners and Care of The Park coordinator.
   

Orientation Video: Are you new to Jersey Cares? Watch our brief orientation video to learn more about who we are, what we do and how to sign-up for a project.

FAQ’s: For answers to our frequently asked questions, please visit the Help section of our website.