Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino is calling on community volunteers to participate in the upcoming Rain Garden Work Party at Theodore Roosevelt Park. The event is scheduled for Saturday, May 4 at the park’s Western Waterfront, and aims to help maintain the vital rain gardens that contribute to preventing stormwater pollution.
“We welcome all those interested in native plant gardening to come join our spring Rain Garden Work Party,” Saladino said. “Participants will learn about rain gardens’ ecological impact while helping to maintain them.” The event promises a hands-on experience in weeding, raking, pruning, planting, and mulching alongside environmental partners and fellow community members.
Rain gardens are crucial ecological features that filter stormwater runoff, preventing it from reaching local waterways, reducing flood risks, and providing habitats for wildlife. Installed in partnership with Friends of the Bay and the Nassau County Soil and Water Conservation District, these gardens not only enhance local biodiversity but also beautify the community.
Councilwoman Vicki Walsh added, “A rain garden is a collection of native plants placed in a small depression designed to slowly absorb rainwater runoff. They have numerous environmental benefits, such as filtering pollutants, reducing flooding, and providing food and habitats to wildlife.”
The Rain Garden Work Party is a family-friendly program that welcomes participants of all ages, particularly those seeking to fulfill community service hours. Volunteers are encouraged to bring their own work gloves and gather at 1 West End Avenue in Oyster Bay.
For more information or to participate, contact the Town of Oyster Bay’s Department of Environmental Resources at (516) 677-5943 or visit oysterbaytown.com/environmental.