Countywide : Volunteers to Plant Trees, Shrubs Sought

The county is seeking volunteers to work for the birds, mice, rabbits and other critters that rely on plants for their food and shelter.

On Saturday at Yorba Regional Park, at least 100 volunteers are needed to plant more than 2,000 trees and shrubs.

The project is designed to attract more birds and animals to the natural areas of the park by planting native trees and shrubs.

“The bottom line is, we’re trying to enhance the natural habitats at our urban parks so people can experience nature in the city,� said Tim Miller, county director of parks.

“At the same time, we’re providing food and shelter for native birds and animals.�

Yorba is a linear park in Anaheim, bordered by La Palma Avenue on one side and the Santa Ana River on the other. The stretch of park slated for re-vegetation is along the river.

“That area has always been left natural, but when it was time to re-vegetate, we looked at it and saw what a great bird habitat it was because of its proximity to the river and the four lakes in the park,� Miller said.

With a $35,000 budget for re-vegetation, Miller said that instead of using outside contractors to survey the plants needed, he used county staff.

“If we would have gone outside the county for this work, half the budget would have been eaten up in consulting fees,� he said.

“This way, and with help of volunteers to do the planting, all the money was spent on buying plants.�

More than 4,600 plants were purchased for Yorba Park, but Miller said only about half can be planted Saturday. Another planting event is planned for Dec. 5.

Anyone wanting to volunteer should arrive at the main entrance of the park at 7 a.m. Saturday with a round-point shovel and gloves. Refreshments have been donated by the Building Industry Assn., and planting will continue until 4 p.m.

Several county environmental organizations have agreed to send volunteers, but Miller said he is still counting on the general public to lend a hand.

“This is an opportunity for anyone who cares about the environment or parks to come out and help beautify their environment and have a good time,� he said.