Halloween brush haul + lunch at HAFA Farm [FULL - register for waitlsit]

Join us for a Halloween brush haul at the Hmong American Farmers Association (HAFA) Farm. Though we haven't worked at this exact spot before, FMR partners with the DNR to restore the South Branch Vermillion River Aquatic Management Area (AMA), which shares a border with this site. Working at the HAFA Farm will help expand our restoration and improve the quality of the forest and savanna habitat, as well as improve water quality in the south branch of the Vermillion River. The Vermillion River is an important Mississippi River tributary and is the only trophy brown trout stream in a metro area in the United States. 

We will remove pre-cut buckthorn from the forest on the HAFA Farm property. Buckthorn is extremely hardy and able to thrive in a variety of soil and light conditions. It out-competes native plant species that are vital for increased habitat and biodiversity. By removing buckthorn, we'll prevent new seeds from spreading into previously restored areas. And, we'll clear the way for native shrubs and wildflowers to return and thrive in the woodland.

We will provide individually packaged lunches at the end of the event! Join us for this unique opportunity to work at a new site and celebrate the end of FMR's volunteer season.

All are welcome, however, capacity is limited and registration required. All supplies and training will be provided and volunteers will work closely with FMR staff. This event is part of the Vermillion Stewards program, helping Vermillion River Watershed residents learn about the local watershed while working to protect and enhance its unique natural resources.

Ready to register?

While this event is full, you can still sign up for the waitlist. Please contact FMR Volunteer & Outreach Coordinator Sophie Downey at volunteer@fmr.org, 651.222.2193 x27, or by selecting Sophie by name under "Category" via the FMR contact form. Please include the name of the event, your name, address and phone number and the number in your party. We will contact you if a spot opens up.Can't make it?

To receive notices of future Vermillion Stewards events, contact FMR Volunteer & Outreach Coordinator Sophie Downey at volunteer@fmr.org. Or, visit our Events Calendar for our most up-to-date listing of upcoming events. To receive a twice-a-month e-newsletter including all FMR activities and news, sign up for Mississippi Messages.

Can't make it?

To receive notices of future Vermillion Stewards events, contact FMR Volunteer & Outreach Coordinator Sophie Downey at volunteer@fmr.org. Or, visit our Events Calendar for our most up-to-date listing of upcoming events. To receive a twice-a-month e-newsletter including all FMR activities and news, sign up for Mississippi Messages.

What about COVID-19?

We've modified our events this year to be smaller, and allow for individuals to work while safely six feet apart. All tools will be sanitized between events, and all gloves provided are unused in 2020. Once registered, volunteers will receive a full list of safety precautions and guidelines. You can read more about our policies here.

We're watching the CDC and Minnesota Department of Health guidelines closely. If plans change based on their recommendations, FMR Volunteer & Outreach Coordinator Sophie Downey will email registrants with event updates. (Be sure to add volunteer@fmr.org to your contacts so updates don't land in spam.) And we'll update this page if anything changes.

We will offer gloves and hand sanitizer at the event. Volunteers are required to bring and wear their own masks.