[StBernard] National Public Lands Day at Jean Lafitte

[Westley Annis]

The Chalmette National Cemetery of Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve is seeking volunteers of all ages to help preserve the local national parks 10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 27, during the 21st annual National Public Lands Day (www.publiclandsday.org). The theme for this year’s nationwide day of service is “Helping Hands for America’s Lands,” and families, individuals, and groups are encouraged to “give something back” to America’s millions of acres of public lands. The national cemetery is located at 8606 West St. Bernard Hwy in Chalmette. More information is available at www.nps.gov/jela. 

 

Scheduled volunteer projects cleaning and trimming around headstones at Chalmette National Cemetery. Volunteers must call the preserve at 504-689-3690 ext. 10 to register for projects; registration deadline is Thursday, September 25. Volunteers of all ages are welcome; children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Volunteer forms are available on the park website at http://www.nps.gov/jela/national-public-lands-day.htm and will also be available at event check-in. Forms for volunteers under 18 must be signed by a parent or guardian. 

 

Volunteers should report to their work site at 10:00 a.m.; projects will happen rain or shine. Volunteers should arrive ready to work: work clothes (long sleeves and pants are best due to poison ivy), closed-toe shoes or boots, work gloves, eye protection, insect repellent, sunscreen, rain gear if necessary, and a personal water bottle are recommended. The day’s agenda starts with assignments and safety information and will end with an accomplishment review and three cheers for volunteers. The park will provide water and snacks for volunteers and equipment for projects. 

 

“Jean Lafitte contains some of Louisiana’s most beautiful wetlands and amazing history,” said Nigel Fields, Chief of Interpretation and Education. “We know how much these park sites mean to local residents because they volunteer here year-round. This is a special day when people can join with folks