Frequently Asked Questions

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

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).

Parks and 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.

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.

Complete an Adopt-a-Park Application (PDF) and return it to the Volunteer Coordinator, 1924 Council Street, P.O. Box 326, Forest Grove, OR 97116 or email it to the Coordinator.  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.

Organizations, businesses, families, and individuals can adopt a park or green space. The City thanks them for their time and talents!

• 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!

Please email Melissa Williams, Administrative Specialist II at mwilliams@forestgrove-or.gov, or call the Parks & Recreation main office at 503.992.3238.