Sign Up To Root Out Weeds

It’s time to sign up for the fourth annual Park Renewal Day.

On Saturday, Nov. 12, teams of citizens will return to Dearborn Park to clear  English ivy and Chinese privet from the park. About 150 people compete each year.

It’s dirty work. Why do it?

Teams will compete for the grand prize of $1,000, while second, third, and fourth place teams will take home $500, $300, and $200, respectively, according to the Park Renewal Day website.

County park experts will score each team’s assigned plot. A live band will play and food will be served. Prizes will be awarded. It starts about 7 a.m. and ends about 12:30 p.m.

Any group willing to help the park and raise money is eligible and should register as soon as possible by going to the Park Renewal Day website.  School organizations, neighborhood associations, nonprofits and Scout troops have competed in past years.

Last year, the Decatur High School Close Up Club and the Midway Woods Neighborhood Association tied for first place. Many winning teams have donated their prize money to other causes.