Garden Care: Marie’s Garden

If your family enjoys getting outside and giving back to the community, Marie's Garden workdays at Blevins Gap Nature Preserve offer a perfect blend of both. Join the Garden Gnomes volunteer group for a morning of hands-on conservation work — weeding, watering, mulching, and planting seasonal varieties that support local pollinators like butterflies and bees. It's a wonderful way for kids to learn where food comes from, understand why native plants matter, and see the direct impact of their efforts while enjoying the preserve's scenic mountain views. The workday begins at 9:00 AM on April 20, 2026, at the Blevins Gap Trailhead on Cecil Ashburn Drive. No gardening experience is necessary, making this accessible for families with children of all ages. While the event is free, registration is required for each participant (including kids), as everyone must complete a liability waiver. The Land Trust provides extra tools, gloves, and water, but it's smart to bring your own water bottle, snacks, and work gloves if you have them. Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are a must for everyone. This is an ideal activity for kids who like digging in the dirt and being helpful, though parents should gauge their child's attention span — younger ones may need breaks or a shorter shift. If the weather turns or trail conditions become unsafe, registered participants will receive an email notification about cancellations, so keep an eye on your inbox the day before.