Baker announces Annual Park Serve Day

  The Baker-Polito Administration recently announced that the 16th annual Park Serve Day will be held on Saturday, April 23 with dozens of volunteer activities planned throughout the Commonwealth’s state park system in collaboration with partner organizations and community stakeholders. Since Park Serve Day began in 2006, thousands have participated in a day of volunteerism by partnering with the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) by cleaning coastlines, clearing trails, picking up litter, planting flowers, painting, and contributing to other important tasks at state parks in every region of the Commonwealth.

   “Volunteering on Park Serve Day is one of the best ways to ensure a park or beach you love will be in good shape for the spring and summer seasons,” said Governor Charlie Baker. “Our Administration is grateful to the thousands of volunteers who will get outside with family, friends, and neighbors to improve state properties throughout the Commonwealth on April 23rd.”

  “It is heartwarming to see how many people are willing to commit to a day of volunteerism on Park Serve Day as a way to give back and safeguard our state parks system,” said Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito. “Thank you to all of the volunteers for their dedication and hard work in preparing the state park system.”

  Local events generally take place between the hours of 9 a.m. and 1 p.m., though times may vary by location. Participants are encouraged to reach out to their local state parks to confirm event times and meeting places. Work gloves and equipment necessary to complete various projects will be provided by the DCR; however, if participants choose, they can bring their own gloves or hand tools (personal materials should be clearly marked with the owner’s name and phone number on them). Notably, power tools will not be allowed.

  “Park Serve Day has become a tradition for many of the volunteers who assist DCR annually to prepare state parks ahead of the influx of people each summer,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Kathleen Theoharides. “The Massachusetts state parks system provides many of us with a respite from our daily stresses, and Park Serve Day offers everyone a chance to get outside and give back a little.”

  The DCR encourages participants to bring their own water and/or food, and advise volunteers to wear sturdy shoes and work clothes. It is also recommended that volunteers bring sunscreen and insect repellent. Weather can be unpredictable, so please dress accordingly. Please note that all parking fees will be waived for volunteers at locations where Park Serve Day events are taking place.

  “As we get ready to welcome millions of visitors to our State Park System for the 2022 summer season, Park Serve Day is a great way for everyone in the Commonwealth to make a difference at the state park they most enjoy,” said Acting DCR Commissioner Stephanie Cooper. “The contributions made by this year’s volunteers will ensure a positive experience for so many in the months ahead, and we are immensely grateful for their time and effort.”

  To find a Park Serve Day event near you, please review the list below or search the Park Serve Day webpage at https://www.mass.gov/service-details/dcr-park-serve-make-every-day-earth-day.