Care of the Park in 🌳 Branch Brook Park

Volunteer with Branch Brook Park Alliance — Help Us Make History!

Become a part of history by volunteering at Essex County Branch Brook Park, the nation's first county park open to the public. This local treasure thrives because of the hands-on support of volunteers like you!

Join the Branch Brook Park Alliance team in meaningful, weekly-changing projects that may include:

• Pruning, grooming, raking, cultivating, watering, and weeding

• Removing invasive plant species

• Assisting with restoration and conservation initiatives

• Maintaining sections of the historic Lenape Trail

• Removing general debris to beautify the park

Important Volunteer Information

Questions:
Please carefully read all the information below before reaching out. For additional inquiries, you may email us or call (973) 969-1189. Please note: registrations are not accepted via email or phone. 

Be on Time:
We get sarted promptly at the start time of the project and then move quickly to the project sites. If you are late, you won't find us at the meeting point and will likely be sent home. 

Registration:
Once you register, you will receive an automated email confirming your meeting location and project details. Only those who have registered will be permitted to participate.

Waivers:
All volunteers must complete two waivers and bring them on the day of service:

• Adults: Jersey Cares Adult Waiver & Essex County Waiver

• Minors (under 18): Jersey Cares Youth Waiver and Essex County Waiver (signed by a parent or legal guardian) Jersey Cares Youth Waiver & Essex County Waiver

Age Requirements:

• Minimum age 12 with an accompanying adult

• Minimum age 16 to volunteer independently

Registration Deadline:
All volunteers must register at least 48 hours in advance. Late registrations cannot be accommodated but you are welcome to sign up for future dates.

Group Volunteers:
Groups of up to 50 participants are welcome!
Each group must appoint a Team Captain to:

• Register the team using real names (tutorial available click here)

• Ensure all members review this page

• Communicate expectations around attire, arrival time, and project details as noted on this page. 

Please note: Groups created using fictitious names will be deleted and the account creator deactivated.

What to Bring and Wear

• Sunscreen and hats for sun protection

• Work gloves (a limited number of clean gloves are available)

• Closed-toed shoes (required for safety)

• Water and snacks (we take a 15-minute break after two hours) - bring water to drink or a reusalbe water bottle to use our water cooler.

• Bug repellent (optional)

• Comfortable clothing you don't mind getting dirty or damaged — this is hands-on, outdoor work!

Weather Considerations

Volunteer events are held rain or shine.
In the event of severe weather, cancellations and updates will be communicated via email.

Join us in stewarding Essex County Branch Brook Park — your time and energy will help ensure that this historic landscape continues to inspire generations to come! 

Orientation and FAQs:

• If you're new to volunteering with Jersey Cares, watch our orientation video to learn more about our organization and how to sign up.
• For additional information, please visit the Help section on our website.