A crew of NESW members will join the Friends of the Blue Hills at Ponkapoag Pond in Canton, Massachusetts, for Green Up the Blue Hills 2026. 

From the event organizers:

This is a welcoming, hands-on event for families, community groups, nature enthusiasts, and volunteers of all ages who want to make a real difference in the health of the Blue Hills. 

This year, volunteers will focus on removing garlic mustard all along Acton Path to the AMC Ponkapoag Camp. This invasive plant crowds out native species and disrupts forest ecosystems–it is perennially on the hot list for FBH stewardship events. The good news: garlic mustard is easy to pull by hand, and with many hands working together, we can make a big impact in just a few hours.

Volunteers will meet at the Fisherman’s Beach parking area at Ponkapoag Pond, check in at intersection marker 5321, and go through a brief orientation session before starting the fun stuff. 

FBH will provide tools, bags, gloves, and training, along with the help of DCR staff. Volunteers are encouraged to wear close-toed shoes or boots and bring their own gardening gloves if they have them. Other stewardship activities may be available depending on need and volunteers on hand.

After the cleanup, stick around and enjoy a little lunch with the Friends! 

By volunteering, you’ll help protect native plants, support wildlife, and keep the Blue Hills healthy and thriving for everyone who loves this special place.

See you at the Beach!