WVP Events

(M)  Parks for Pollinators - Individual Monitoring Opportunity

All through September @ All Cleveland Metroparks Reservations

WVP volunteers can self-report time spent contributing to Parks for Pollinators 2025: Cleveland Metroparks by recording their hours under (M)onitoring 

(M) Certified Steward Exclusive: Cuyahoga by Boat Rescheduled

Thu, Sept 18, 5:30 - 8 p.m. @ Merwin's Wharf, Lakefront Reservation

This is a special event for Watershed Stewards who've achieved their certification. We'll join Cleveland Metropark's Historical Interpreter Doug Kusak on this WVP only, 2-hour Cuyahoga River boat ride aboard the eLCee2. Enjoy a river view while we discuss famous fires on the river, bridges, cargo ships, area geography, history, watersheds, trails, industry, reclamation, and so much more. We’ll look at what was, what is, and what’s to come. 

(O) NEORSD Clean Water Fest

Sat, Sep 20, Three Shifts: 8-11 a.m., 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 2-5 p.m. @ 4747 E. 49th St., Cleveland

A day all about water with games, education, tours, and more! Help spread the word about WVP and share your knowledge of watershed health. Breakfast or lunch will be provided to WVP (O)utreach volunteers who staff our table.

(R) Work Session: European Black Alder Removal

Mon, Sep 22, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. @ Lake Isaac, Big Creek Reservation in Rocky River Watershed

Join CMP Natural Resources Manager Val Carter-Stone to remove non-native, European Black Alder. 

(M) Parks for Pollinators*

Thurs, Sep 25, 6 - 7:30 p.m. @ Johnson's Picnic Area, Hinckley Reservation in Rocky River Watershed

Gather with your fellow WVP volunteers to join in the Cleveland Metroparks monthlong monitoring celebration of our park's pollinators. 

(R) TREEmont Tree Care

Friday, Sep 26, 1 - 3 p.m. @ Along the Towpath Trail in Tremont, Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation in the Cuyahoga River Watershed

Join WVP Volunteer Leaders Chris Wolf and Dan Leamon in their project to cage and protect trees in Tremont, protecting them from beavers, deer and other threats that they face. Help safeguard these trees that will contribute to shaded areas along the Towpath Trail and lessen the Urban Heat Island effect.

(M) Parks for Pollinators*

Sun, Sep 28, 1 - 3 p.m. @ Watershed Stewardship Center, West Creek Reservation

Gather with your fellow WVP volunteers to join in the Cleveland Metroparks monthlong monitoring celebration of our park's pollinators. 

(S) Urban Ecology Walk

Wed, Sept 17, 6 - 7 p.m. @ Creekside Collaborative Partners

Discover how native habitats can transform your wet backyard into a thriving ecosystem. Learn practical tips for your property and receive a free native plant to take home. Waivers will be available at check-in and are required before participating. This event is limited to 20 people. Register today to reserve your spot and take home a free native plant.

More Information and Registration Here

(S) Plant Sale Prep at Creekside Collaborative Partners

Thurs Sept 18 from 9:30 a.m. - 12 p.m. @ Creekside Collaborative 7000 Randolph Dr Parma, OH 44129

Drop in as your schedule allows to help us prep for the fall plant sale (labeling plants, organizing inventory, weeding). Dress for the weather, and check your email prior to the event in case any changes are made.

More Information and Registration Here

(S) Friends of the Doan Brook Gorge Habitat Stewardship

Sat, Sept 20, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. @ Fairhill Road between E 124th and E. 127th

A few years ago, some friends got together to start removing invasive species and planting native species in the Doan Brook Gorge in the hopes of making it a more resilient and accessible spot for community members to spend time in nature. Filled with meandering trails and multiple waterfalls, the Doan Brook Gorge is a beautiful and often under-utilized natural area of the Doan Brook watershed. This year, we are hosting 6 “Habitat Stewardship Days” which will involve invasive species removal, native tree plantings, and so much more! Join us in helping to make the Doan Brook Gorge a more biodiverse and welcoming outdoor space for all!

More Information and Registration Here

(S) Bike the Watershed

Sat, Sept 20, 2 - 4 p.m. @ Cleveland Lakefront Nature Preserve 8701 Lakeshore Blvd. Cleveland, OH 44108

Join DBWP, Bike Cleveland, University Circle Inc, and more for a bike ride through the Rockefeller Reach of the Doan Brook Watershed! Learn about recent projects in the area, and get to know the watershed community–on wheels! The ride will be approximately 8 miles at a no-drop pace. All are welcome (you must bring your own bike).

More Information and Registration Here

(S) Creekside Collaborative Fall Plant Sale

Sun, Sept 21, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. @ Creekside Collaborative 7000 Randolph Dr, Parma, OH, OH, United States

Shop a variety of native trees and plants grown right here at our nursery! Join us Sunday, September 21st, from 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM at Creekside Collaborative for our Fall Plant Sale. Drop by and take home plants that support pollinators, improve soil health, and thrive in our region.

More Information and Registration Here

(S) Seed Collection Drop-In

Tues, Sept 23, 1 - 3:30 p.m. @ Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Come make a difference in Cuyahoga Valley National Park and join us for our seed collection drop-in! Seed collection helps improve the habitat for plants and wildlife in our national park. We will be collecting seeds to be grown in our park’s native plant nursery! Your efforts will help improve soil quality, restore native plants, and create better habitat for native wildlife.

**Advanced registration is required for all individuals. Group sizes are small, and have a strict attendance cap. Only volunteers who pre-registered will be permitted to participate. Outdoor work gloves and eye protection will be provided, volunteers are permitted to bring personal equipment. We will have a water cooler, please bring a refillable water bottle.

More Information and Registration Here

(S) Fascinating Fungi of Dusty Goldenrod Preserve

Sat, Sept 27, 9:30 - 11 a.m. @ Dusty Goldenrod Preserve

Join us for an exploration of the diversity of fungi at the Dusty Goldenrod Preserve. This field trip will focus on the variety of forms that fungi exhibit and their contributions to the health of this Preserve.  The trip will be led by Tom Sampliner who did a winter presentation on fungi last year for the Friends of Euclid Creek.  Tom has taught mushroom identification at Tri-C

More Information and Registration Here

(S) Grow Not Mow

Sat, Sept 27, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. @ S Park Blvd & Lee Rd, Shaker Heights

The workday celebrating National Public Lands Day will again be a collaborative event sponsored by the City of Shaker Heights, The Doan Brook Watershed Partnership and the Nature Center at Shaker Lakes. We are calling for volunteers of all ages to join us in planting more native trees and plants and removing invasives at this site adjacent to the Doan Brook. This is our third season of extending this area of woodland and underplanting it with a meadow. A planned NEORSD project will remove a concrete stepped culverted area of the Doan Brook impeding fish passage. This will enable Nature Center Natural Resource Specialists and volunteers to remove invasive vines proliferating along the banks of the Doan Brook. All volunteers should come dressed for the weather. Tools and gloves will be provided. Families and volunteers of all ages are welcome!

More Information and Registration Here

(S) National Public Lands Day Habitat Restoration

Sat, Sept 27, 1 - 3:30 p.m. @ Cuyahoga Valley National Park

In celebration of National Public Lands Day, join us for our Habitat Restoration drop-in on Saturday, Sept. 27, to improve habitat for native plants and wildlife. Our habitat restoration efforts could include invasive plant removal and/or native plantings. Your efforts will help improve soil quality, restore native plants, and create better habitat for native wildlife. Drop-ins are a great opportunity for both first-time volunteers and veteran volunteers to get involved in their national park.

**Advanced registration is required for all individuals. Only volunteers who pre-registered will be permitted to participate. Outdoor work gloves and eye protection will be provided. We will have a water cooler, please bring a refillable water bottle.

More Information and Registration Here

(S) Beaver Coexistence: Benefits and Techniques

Mon, Sept 29, 6 - 7 p.m. @Richfield Public Library

We are excited to announce an upcoming speaker event on beaver coexistence. Beavers can be exceptional partners for improving watershed health, however living with them can bring a unique set of challenges. Join us for a speaker event on the benefits beavers can have for ourselves and our ecosystems, as well as an overview of methods to mitigate undesirable effects of beavers. Everyone is welcome at this event, but landowners in particular may find this valuable. Event is free! No registration required.

More Information

(S) Seed Collection Drop-In

Tues, Sept 30, 1 - 3:30 p.m. @ Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Come make a difference in Cuyahoga Valley National Park and join us for our seed collection drop-in! Seed collection helps improve the habitat for plants and wildlife in our national park. We will be collecting seeds to be grown in our park’s native plant nursery! Your efforts will help improve soil quality, restore native plants, and create better habitat for native wildlife.

**Advanced registration is required for all individuals. Group sizes are small, and have a strict attendance cap. Only volunteers who pre-registered will be permitted to participate. Outdoor work gloves and eye protection will be provided, volunteers are permitted to bring personal equipment. We will have a water cooler, please bring a refillable water bottle.

More Information and Registration Here

(L) Watershed Wednesday w/Friends of Euclid Creek* 

Wed, Oct 1, 6 - 7:30 p.m. @ Dusty Goldenrod Preserve in Euclid Creek Watershed

Our eighth Watershed Wednesday event of the year. 

Join Brian Gilbert of Friends of Euclid Creek to learn about and tour the Dusty Goldenrod Preserve. We should be able to see the Dusty Goldenrod in full bloom!

(O) Sturgeon Fest 

Sat, Oct 4, 1 - 4 p.m. @ Rivergate Park, 1785 Merwin Ave., Cleveland in Cuyahoga River Watershed

Cleveland Metroparks, in partnership with the Ohio Division of Wildlife, is hosting the first annual Sturgeon Fest. The event celebrates the historic stocking of 1,500 juvenile lake sturgeon into the Cuyahoga River to support the species' recovery. The event will include educational activities and volunteers will assist with the release of lake sturgeon.

(L) Wallace Lake Fish Survey

Thu, Oct 9, TBA (am) @ Wallace Lake in Rocky River Watershed

Details coming soon!

(R) Work Session: European Black Alder

Tue, Oct 14, 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. @ Lake Isaac, Big Creek Reservation in Rocky River Watershed

Join CMP Natural Resources Manager Val Carter-Stone to remove non-native, European Black Alder from the sensitive Waterfowl Sanctuary at Lake Isaac. 

(R) Native Shrub Planting and Restoration Site Tour

Fri, Oct 17, 1:00 -  3:00 p.m. @ Jackson Field, South Chagrin Reservation in Chagrin River Watershed

Join CMP Natural Resources Josh Philipps at Jackson Field to plant shrubs that will bolster a Restoration Project that was completed in 2018. We'll have the opportunity to tour the restoration site and learn about its impact.

(M) Marine Debris Monitoring

Sun, Oct 19, 9 - 11 a.m. @ Euclid Beach in Euclid Creek Watershed

Join us for monitoring Marine Debris at Euclid Creek.

(R) Green Infrastructure Pollinator Planting

Mon, Oct 27, 9 - 11 a.m. @ Merwin's Wharf

Join us planting native butterfly milkweed and penstemon in the bioretention at Merwin's Wharf that will help support monarch migration. We will also be lightly weeding the area.

(R) Seed Collection

TBD

Join us collecting native seeds for use in future restoration projects throughout Cleveland Metroparks. Dress in layers for wet soil and thorny vegetation; wear boots, long pants, and long sleeves. 

(S) Rain Barrel Pick-Up Event | Shaker Heights

Wed, Oct 1, 6 - 7:30 p.m. @ Shaker Heights Service Yard, 15600 Chagrin Blvd., Shaker Heights, OH, 44120

Collect rainwater for outdoor use and help stop stormwater pollution in your community by making a rain barrel! A rain barrel is a container that collects and stores rainwater that would normally flow into a storm drain untreated. You can then use the collected water to water your lawn and garden. This workshop is a rain barrel pickup. You will receive a barrel and a kit that has everything you need to make your barrel at home with a drill and a screwdriver. If you do not have these tools, please contact the organizer. The $60 fee covers all materials, including a 60-gallon barrel, drill bits, and a downspout diverter. If you want to create a two-barrel system, you can get a second barrel and linking kit for $40. You must pre-pay below and register for the workshop. Barrel dimensions are 2 feet wide by 3 feet tall.

More Information and Registration Here

(S) Tree Planting Workshop

Sat, Oct 4, 10 a.m. - 11 a.m. @ Creekside Collaborative Partners

Interested in learning the proper techniques for planting a tree to ensure its long-term success? Join us for an educational and hands-on Tree Planting Workshop. In this workshop, you’ll gain the knowledge and tools to ensure your tree thrives for years to come.

Participants will receive: 

One tree of your choice (while supplies last)

A tree protection kit including caging and two stakes 

Expert instruction on proper tree planting and care practices 

This workshop is ideal for homeowners ready to enhance their tree stewardship skills, with the space to plant. Be mindful of spacing requirements, and choose a species that will work well in your yard. Current tree sizes range from 3-5 ft tall and up to 4 ft wide. The Northern Red Oaks are 7-10 ft tall. Please bring an appropriately sized vehicle to safely transport your tree and materials.

This workshop is limited to 26 people only. Register today to reserve your spot and take home a tree to plant and protect in your own space.

IMPORTANT: Pre-registration is required. Walk-ins will not be accommodated. 

More Information and Registration Here

(S) Cuyahoga SWCD Stormwater Run-Off 2025

Sun, Oct 5, 8 a.m. - 12 p.m. @ Clark Field Park

Join Cuyahoga Soil & Water Conservation District at our 2nd Annual Stormwater Run-Off 5K and 1-Mile Fun Run/Walk! On Sunday, October 5th, run or walk on the Towpath Trail and learn about stormwater and the different ways to slow it down, spread it out, and soak it in throughout the course. Post-race refreshments will be available to all participants, and the Smooth Rider Food Truck will be on-site, with discounts available to race participants. 

More Information and Registration Here

(S) Seed Collection Drop-In

Tues, Oct 7, 1 - 3:30 p.m. @ Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Come make a difference in Cuyahoga Valley National Park and join us for our seed collection drop-in! Seed collection helps improve the habitat for plants and wildlife in our national park. We will be collecting seeds to be grown in our park’s native plant nursery! Your efforts will help improve soil quality, restore native plants, and create better habitat for native wildlife.

**Advanced registration is required for all individuals. Group sizes are small, and have a strict attendance cap. Only volunteers who pre-registered will be permitted to participate. Outdoor work gloves and eye protection will be provided, volunteers are permitted to bring personal equipment. We will have a water cooler, please bring a refillable water bottle.

More Information and Registration Here

(S) Fall Garden Cleanup

Wed, Oct 8, 5:30 - 6:30 p.m. @ Beachwood Fire Station 2, 3691 Richmond Road, Beachwood, OH, 44122

Help us get public gardens ready for the dormant season. We will mostly be weeding, and participants can collect seeds to take home. Cuyahoga SWCD will supply all necessary tools and supplies, but feel free to bring your own gloves. Please bring your own water bottle and wear long pants and closed-toed shoes. 

More Information and Registration Here

(S) Friends of the Doan Brook Gorge Habitat Stewardship

Sat, Oct 11, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. @ Fairhill Road between E 124th and E. 127th.

A few years ago, some friends got together to start removing invasive species and planting native species in the Doan Brook Gorge in the hopes of making it a more resilient and accessible spot for community members to spend time in nature. Filled with meandering trails and multiple waterfalls, the Doan Brook Gorge is a beautiful and often under-utilized natural area of the Doan Brook watershed. This year, we are hosting 6 “Habitat Stewardship Days” which will involve invasive species removal, native tree plantings, and so much more! Join us in helping to make the Doan Brook Gorge a more biodiverse and welcoming outdoor space for all!

More Information and Registration Here

(S) Blue Heron Homecoming 2025

Sat, Oct 11, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. @ 2460 Akron Peninsula Rd.

The Blue Heron Homecoming is an annual environmental festival that provides community members with a chance to learn about the Akron Waterways Renewed! (AWR!) program. The festival features representatives from the City of Akron, firms involved with the AWR! program, and community partners, including local non-profits and environmental groups. 

More Information and Registration Here

(S) Fall Garden Cleanup

Wed, Oct 15, 5:30 - 6:30 p.m. @ Mayfield Heights City Hall

Help us get public gardens ready for the dormant season. We will mostly be weeding, and participants can collect seeds to take home. Cuyahoga SWCD will supply all necessary tools and supplies, but feel free to bring your own gloves. Please bring your own water bottle and wear long pants and closed-toed shoes. 

More Information and Registration Here

(S) Cuyahoga SWCD Annual Meeting & Pancake Breakfast

Sat, Oct 18, 8:30 - 10:30 a.m. @ Masjid Bilal of Cleveland, 7401 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH, 44103

Join Cuyahoga SWCD to learn about our conservation work across Cuyahoga County and celebrate the past year’s accomplishments!

Highlights from Cuyahoga SWCD’s 75th Anniversary

Celebrate the 2025 Conservation Award Winners

Tour Masjid Bilal, a NWF Sacred Grounds host site

FREE BREAKFAST!!!

Event is free, but registration is required!

More Information and Registration Here

(S) Seed Collection Drop-In

Tues, Oct 21, 1 - 3:30 p.m. @ Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Come make a difference in Cuyahoga Valley National Park and join us for our seed collection drop-in! Seed collection helps improve the habitat for plants and wildlife in our national park. We will be collecting seeds to be grown in our park’s native plant nursery! Your efforts will help improve soil quality, restore native plants, and create better habitat for native wildlife.

**Advanced registration is required for all individuals. Group sizes are small, and have a strict attendance cap. Only volunteers who pre-registered will be permitted to participate. Outdoor work gloves and eye protection will be provided, volunteers are permitted to bring personal equipment. We will have a water cooler, please bring a refillable water bottle.

More Information and Registration Here

(S) Fall Garden Cleanup

Wed, Oct 22, 5:30 - 6:30 p.m. @ Greenwood Farm, 264 Richmond Road, Richmond Heights, OH, 44143

Help us get public gardens ready for the dormant season. We will mostly be weeding, and participants can collect seeds to take home. Cuyahoga SWCD will supply all necessary tools and supplies, but feel free to bring your own gloves. Please bring your own water bottle and wear long pants and closed-toed shoes. 

More Information and Registration Here

(S) Drinkers for Tinker's

Thurs, Oct 23, 6 - 9 p.m. @ Eighty-Three Brewery

Come for the fun night out, stay for the pinball and gorgeous fall food and drink… and leave knowing you helped save habitat for otters! Raise a glass at Drinkers for Tinker’s—a night of connection and community that makes a real impact for clean water! Enjoy craft drinks, good company, and support local conservation at the same time. By joining us, you’re helping Tinker’s Creek Watershed Partners protect and restore water quality and habitats in the Tinker’s Creek and Brandywine Creek watersheds for river otters and all of the other creatures that call our area home.

More Information and Registration Here

(S) Doan Brook Annual Watershed Symposium

Thurs, Oct 23, 5:30 - 8:30 p.m. @ Nature Center at Shaker Lakes

This year, our Annual Meeting will feature a symposium of presentations about projects led by DBWP and community members across our watershed! Join us for an evening of refreshments, get to know our watershed community, and hear about our 2025 highlights!

More Information and Registration Here

(S) Fall Garden Cleanup

Wed, Oct 29, 5:30 - 6:30 p.m. @ Wiley Park, 610 SOM Center Road, Mayfield Village, OH, 44143

Help us get public gardens ready for the dormant season. We will mostly be weeding, and participants can collect seeds to take home. Cuyahoga SWCD will supply all necessary tools and supplies, but feel free to bring your own gloves. Please bring your own water bottle and wear long pants and closed-toed shoes. 

More Information and Registration Here

(M) Marine Debris Monitoring

Monthly: Starting in May, Select Sundays - 9-11am

(L) Watershed Wednesdays

Monthly: May through October -  6-7:30pm