What if a single day of volunteering could help improve water quality, strengthen wildlife habitat, reduce flood impacts, and shape the future of the Black River for generations?

This October, join Orleans County Natural Resources Conservation District for two volunteer planting days along the Black River in Irasburg. Together, we'll plant native trees and shrubs while supporting an innovative direct seeding project that will help restore a healthy riparian forest along more than 1,200 feet of river.

Whether you're a longtime conservation volunteer or simply looking for a meaningful day outdoors, your efforts will leave a lasting mark on the watershed.

Why Riparian Buffers Matter

A riparian buffer is the strip of native vegetation that grows alongside rivers and streams. These natural corridors are one of the hardest-working parts of a healthy watershed.

By planting native trees and shrubs, you'll help:

• Filter sediment and runoff before it reaches the Black River
• Stabilize streambanks and reduce erosion
• Slow floodwaters and improve flood resilience
• Create habitat for fish, birds, pollinators, and other wildlife
• Restore native floodplain forests that have been lost over time

This project is part of a larger effort to reconnect silver maple floodplain forests along the Black River, helping restore a natural landscape that benefits both people and wildlife.

What We'll Be Planting

Volunteers will help plant a diverse mix of native species selected specifically for floodplain restoration, including:

• Silver Maple – A signature tree of Vermont floodplain forests that thrives in seasonally flooded soils.
• Black Willow – One of the first trees to establish along rivers, helping stabilize streambanks with its extensive root system.
• Shrub Willow – Fast-growing and well adapted to wet soils, making it an important species for erosion control.
• Speckled Alder – A native shrub commonly found along streams and wetlands, providing valuable cover for wildlife.
• Red Osier Dogwood – Known for its striking red stems, which brighten the winter landscape while providing food and shelter for birds and other wildlife.

Event Details

Tuesday, October 6
9:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Wednesday, October 7
9:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

👉 Reserve your volunteer spot today.

Location

The planting site is located in Irasburg along the Black River.

Detailed meeting locations, directions, and any weather-related updates will be emailed to registered volunteers before each event.

What to Bring

Please wear clothing appropriate for working outdoors in October.

Required

• Closed-toe waterproof boots or shoes
• Work gloves
• Water bottle

Recommended

• Hat
• Sunscreen
• Bug repellent
• Layers suitable for changing weather

We'll provide all planting tools, equipment, instruction, and guidance.

Volunteer Requirements

Participants should be comfortable walking on uneven ground and able to lift approximately 25 pounds.

No previous planting experience is necessary. Our staff will provide all the training you need.

Be Part of Something That Lasts

Trees planted today will protect the Black River for decades to come. Every seedling placed in the ground helps create cleaner water, healthier wildlife habitat, and a more resilient watershed.

Join us for a rewarding day outdoors and help grow the next generation of Vermont's riverside forests.

👉 Reserve your volunteer spot today.

Ted Sedell
Riparian Lands Program Manager
Ted.Sedell@orleanscountynrcd.org