A group of 11 volunteers from Friends of South Whidbey State Park (FOSWSP) gathered for the first work party of the season on Saturday, Feb. 27.

The volunteers were asked to tackle a substantial list of clean-up tasks that were necessary to help clear South Whidbey State Park of debris and other assorted items.

Six FOSWSP volunteers were joined by a chief petty officer and his daughter from Naval Air Station Whidbey, two Clinton residents and a partner from Calyx Community Arts School to form a hard-working, enthusiastic cadre of do-gooders. The group was not only able to complete the assigned task but a bonus project as well. The main objective of the day was to clean up the main day-use areas near the amphitheater. In just three hours, the stalwart group cleaned up the amphitheater, covered and open picnic areas, several hiker and biker campsites and the main restroom area. In addition, the main parking lot was leaf-blown and raked of debris, and several wheelbarrow loads of mulch were laid on the wettest parts of the Forest Discovery Trail.

The group also put a considerable dent in tasks that need to be accomplished before summer, however, recent storms have again left the park a mess. Another work party will meet this weekend, from 8:45 a.m. until noon Saturday, March 19.

Volunteers are asked to dress for the weather and wear good work shoes or boots. Also, participants should bring a water bottle, work or garden gloves, a leaf rake, and garden clippers if you wish.

Additional work parties are planned for April 16 and May 21, from 8:45 a.m. to noon. For details, email foswsp@gmail.com or call 221-8351.