Celebrate Mother Earth this Mother's Day

May 2014

> IN THIS ISSUE: Volunteer Projects, Host Vacancies, Spotlights

Sweep The Hooch was a Success!

Three of Georgia State Parks participated in the Sweep The Hooch 2014 event April 12, 2014.  Sweetwater Creek volunteer paddlers brought in 300 pounds of trash, Chattahoochee Bend paddling volunteers brought in 700 pounds of trash and Don Carter State Park paddlers and walkers cleaned up a whopping 3900 pounds of trash! We are greatful for the community stepping up to help clear the debris from our parks!

Host Vacancies

Upcoming Events

Panola Mountain's Stewardship Saturdays

Saturday, May 3, 2014 9 AM Panola Mountain State Park - Stockbridge, GA Join us for a work day each month and help staff keep our National Natural Landmark in tip top shape. Each month will be a different service project and will allow you to see parts of the park you might have never experienced before. Please call the park in advance to register and ensure your parking fees will be waived the day of the event. Register in advance: 770-389-7801

Vogel CCC Program/Trail Project

Saturday, May 10, 2014 9 AM Vogel State Park - Blairsville, GA GATC Trail Project. 9:00-11:00 a.m. on lake trail. CCC Program begins at 11:00 a.m. Register in advance: 706-745-2628

Sweetwater Creek Canoe Cleanup

Sunday, May 18, 2014 10 AM to 1 PM Sweetwater Creek State Park - Lithia Springs, GA Join us in beautifying Sweetwater Creek as we pick up trash from the water by canoe and along the banks. Pre-registration is required and previous canoe experience is required for those in canoes. Meet at the Visitor's Center. $5 parking. Register in advance: 770-732-5871

Log Hours

Log Hours

Volunteer Hours Logged in 2014

Congratulations and a great big THANK YOU to those volunteers that have reached the Over 500 Hour Club. You will receive your note in the mail within the next few weeks.

Thank you!

Volunteers Defined: We love and need them all!

Community Volunteers-Help on a day-to-day basis at a Park as they are available. Our community volunteers help with leading hikes, helping with maintenance, assisting with the visitor or retail center, guide new visitors to park activities and locations. Those volunteering more than once per month or planning to volunteer more than 20 hours per year need to update registration.

Hosts (Campground, Yurt, Maintenance, Golf, Train)-Stay in their personal RV at designated free Host Site for 2-6 months in exchange for a minimum of 24 hours of volunteer work.  Host duties include: visitor assistance and maintenance.  All hosts are required to update registration to still be considered for hosting.

Group Volunteers-This is for Churches, Corporations, Scouts and Universities who want a tailor-made project that will strengthen the group as individuals as well as a team morale while assisting Georgia State Parks. Only the group leader will need to be registered in our system.

How are we doing?

In order for Georgia State Parks to continue to thrive and grow, even in these lean budget times, we need to get feedback from those that utilize our services and Parks. As Volunteers and Hosts, you have the same rights and anonymity in park observations and feedback as our Park Staff.  Please use this quick survey form to share your experiences with us.