Volunteers Needed for Montezuma Habitat Restoration Efforts

The Montezuma Wetlands Complex is seeking volunteers to assist with habitat restoration efforts this spring as part of the MARSH! (Montezuma Alliance for the Restoration of Species and Habitats) program. Volunteers will play a key role in removing invasive plant species, replanting native vegetation, and supporting conservation efforts across Montezuma’s diverse ecosystems.

The volunteer workdays, scheduled between April and May 2025, will take place at locations managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), and the Montezuma Audubon Center (MAC). Work will include invasive species removal, tree planting, and habitat monitoring in grasslands, shrublands, forests, marshes, and rivers.

Workday Schedule:

• April 9 & 30 – Woody invasive species removal at the Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge.

• April 12 & 23 – Honeysuckle removal at Montezuma Audubon Center and DEC sites.

• May 3 – Garden maintenance and potential honeysuckle removal at MAC.

• May 7 & 14 – Tree planting at MAC/DEC sites.

• May 21 & 28 – Invasive species mapping at the Refuge.

Volunteers will work from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., with lunch provided by Friends of the Montezuma Wetlands Complex. Those interested are encouraged to sign up at least 24 hours in advance.

For workdays at the Montezuma Refuge, volunteers can contact Andrea VanBeusichem at (315) 237-9862 (text preferred) or andrea_vanbeusichem@fws.gov. For workdays at MAC/DEC sites, sign-ups are available at ny.audubon.org/montezuma under the Volunteer Opportunities section.

This volunteer program contributes to ongoing efforts to protect and restore Montezuma’s habitats, ensuring a healthier environment for native wildlife. Volunteers will gain hands-on conservation experience while making a direct impact on the local ecosystem.