Otis Farm Bird Sanctuary Workday

Activities for Otis Farm Bird Sanctuary workdays are variable. Please see what we will be focusing on below.

• Tuesday, April 6: Nest box monitor training and nest box cleanup 
• Saturday, April 17: Invasives control with herbicide; we will provide all training and oversight for safety and best practices 
• Saturday, May 1: Install new picnic table and benches, and spread mulch for expanded pollinator garden 
• Wednesday, May 5: Install nature play area and Little Free Library 
• Wednesday, May 12: Native garden planting
• Saturday, May 15: Invasives control with herbicide; we will provide all training and oversight for safety and best practices
• CANCELED — Wednesday, May 19: Seasonal bird survey monitor training/refresher 
• Wednesday, June 2: Garlic mustard and dame’s rocket pulling
• Saturday, June 12: Install fencing around native wildflower planting to protect from deer browsing

Please come prepared for outdoor work; wear long pants, long sleeves, close-toed shoes, and a hat. Bring work gloves, water, snacks, insect repellent, and sunscreen, although we will have extras on hand.

Volunteers are required to RSVP for workdays to Conservation Program Coordinator Linnea Rowse at lrowse@michiganaudubon.org. See the update below regarding restrictions on workday participation.

This event is weather-dependent. If an event is canceled, all those who RSVP will receive an email by 5 p.m. the day before.

Otis Farm Bird Sanctuary is located at 3560 Havens Rd., Hastings, MI 49058

We hope to see you at the sanctuary!

COVID-19 update: We will continue to follow all risk-reducing guidelines and policies from the Michigan governor’s office. We are limiting the number of participants allowed at each volunteer event, and RSVPs will be required. Outdoor social distancing will be practiced, as well as mask-wearing when social distancing is not possible. Participants are encouraged to bring their work gloves. Sign up for our monthly volunteer email for specifics on upcoming volunteer projects and guidance on what to wear and bring.