THU, MAY 17, 2012
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Parks & Recreation: Adopt-A-Park Volunteers

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Want to help keep our parks and green spaces healthy, clean, and safe? Interested in giving back to the community, or helping the natural environment? Adopt-a-Park volunteers do all that and more.

Adopt-a-Park volunteers “adopt” a Forest Grove park or green space by committing to a regular schedule of volunteer service in that park/green space.

Click here for an Adopt-A-Park application.

What do Adopters do?
Typical Adopt-a-Park volunteer tasks include the following:

  • Removing litter
  • Pulling weeds
  • Removing invasive plants
  • Spreading bark dust
  • Planting flowers
  • Reporting safety hazards and graffiti

How much time does it take?
Adopters agree to serve at regular intervals at their adopted site. Some parks or green spaces involve monthly volunteer service; others require less-frequent service (e.g., quarterly service).

Do I need to bring tools?
Parks & Recreation provides trash bags and gloves. Currently the department can also provide tools such as shovels, rakes, etc. for as many as six people. Larger-sized groups can be discussed.

What parks or green spaces can be adopted?
Adoptable parks and green spaces currently include Fernhill Wetlands, Thatcher Park, Forest Glen Park, Reuter Farms green space, Knox Ridge Park, the entrance to Forest Gale Heights, and city-maintained land by the “Welcome to Forest Grove” signs at the north and east entrances to Forest Grove.

How are adopters recognized?
The City of Forest Grove, Parks & Recreation Department, will post a sign at your adopted park or green space, identifying your group as an adopter. These signs are a great way to spread the word about the service you or your group is providing.

How do I get started? 
Complete an Adopt-a-Park Application and return it to the Volunteer Coordinator, 1924 Council Street, P.O. Box 326, Forest Grove, OR 97116.  The Volunteer Coordinator will contact you about available openings.  If there is an opening that matches your schedule and interests, the Volunteer Coordinator will schedule a meeting with you to go over program details.

Who can adopt?
Organizations, businesses, families, and individuals can adopt a park or green space.

Who are Adopters?
Current Adopt-a-Park volunteers include the following:

  • Terri and Ken Erskine (Forest Gale Heights Entrance)
  • The Forest Grove Kiwanis (Fernhill Wetlands)
  • The Roth Family (Reuter Farms)
  • Mike Bernhardt and April Hanks (Forest Glen Park)

The City thanks them for their time and talents!

Why volunteer?   

  • Give back to the community
  • Protect wildlife and habitat
  • Complete school or club requirements for volunteer service hours
  • Get outdoor exercise
  • Ensure safe, clean parks for all residents to enjoy
  • Meet new people
  • Have fun!

Additional questions?
Please contact Kari Middleton, Volunteer Coordinator, at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it   or (503) 992-3302.