Saturday, September 6, 2014

What to Expect on Work Day

Please review the material in this site regarding safety, tools, procedures, what to wear, directions to site, and so on. Be sure you have registered. If you have not registered you may still come to the Work Day and we can probably get you on a work team.

Click here to view a video from the 2013 Work Day. This will give you a great overview of the planned work and some of the great people who volunteered last year.

Here's what to expect when you arrive for your chosen work shift!
  • Bring your own tools, gloves, etc. (see info elsewhere on this site). Make sure your tools are sharp and in good working order before you arrive.
  • Arrive at least 10 minutes early to allow time to park, walk to the site and sign in. Volunteer oritntation begins at 9 AM.
  • If you have any questions ask anyone wearing a GPIP safety vest and they'll help you.
  • You will be asked to sign a liability waiver at sign in, and given a GPIP button to show that you have signed in.
  • Every volunteer will be assigned to a Work Team when they sign in.
  • Each Work Team will consist of 4 to 6 volunteers working with 1 Team Leader.
  • Each Work Team will have their own work area, as indicated by area signs.
  • We will begin with a mandatory 10 minute orientation session covering introductions, safe practices, plant identification, and cutting procedures.
  • If you have not signed in and signed the waiver you will not be allowed to work.
  • After the 10 minute orientation the Work Teams will take their tools to their designated work area and attack the invasives!
  • The work will be moderately strenuous. There will be no heavy lifting but a lot of bending and arm-work with loppers.
  • There is some POISON IVY at the site so plan on being extra careful not to get into it. If you have a severe reaction to poison ivy it might be better to "pass" on volunteering; we'd rather have one less volunteer than see you at the emergency room a few days later.
  • The work will take 3 hours including the orientation session.
  • Take breaks as needed and hydrate frequently.
  • If you tire before noon it's OK to stop early. We appreciate your volunteering regardless of how long you can work. Use your own judgment and don't overdo it.
  • There is no hurry. Safety is paramount!
  • There will be a break area with seating, water, and a basic first aid kit.
  • Tecnu (poison ivy wash) and insect spray will be provided if you forget to bring your own.
  • Please SIGN OUT when you leave and return your GPIP button.
  • WE'LL HAVE A FUN, SAFE AND PRODUCTIVE DAY!
  • THANK YOU FOR VOLUNTEERING!