Adopt-A-Park

Adopt-A-Park

Thank you for your interest in volunteering! Volunteers are valued members of the City of Lebanon. 

Any individual, neighborhood or organization can Adopt-A-Park as a volunteer project. The Parks Department continues to provide regular maintenance, while the individuals and groups are asked to assist with the special care of the adopted areas. Responsibilities are spelled out in a letter of understanding signed by the Public Works Director and the individual or representative of the group adopting a park.

Who can adopt? 
Organizations, businesses, families, and individuals can adopt a park or green space.

Participants 18 years of age or older will be required to sign individual releases waiving the City of Lebanon from liability arising from activities in the program. Parents will be required to sign releases for children under the age of 18 who participate in the program.

The City thanks them for their time and talents!

Why Adopt-A-Park?

The individuals and groups who become involved in the Adopt-A-Park program are helping to enhance and maintain our public lands through clean up, planting  plantings, weeding, monitoring wildlife and other projects. Your volunteer effort in our parks and on our trails increases awareness of the importance of protecting our natural resources, generates pride in our park system and demonstrates a commitment to your community. As a group or business, you can create a better environment for yourself and the next generation.

Below are some additional benefits of volunteering:

• Give back to the community
• Complete school or club requirements for volunteer service hours
• Get outdoor exercise
• Ensure safe, clean parks for all residents to enjoy
• Meet new people
• Have fun!

What do Adopters do? 
Typical Adopt-a-Park volunteer tasks include the following:

• Removing litter
• Pulling weeds
• Removing invasive plants
• Spreading bark dust
• Planting flowers
• Reporting safety hazards and graffiti

How much time does it take? 
Adopters agree to serve at regular intervals at their adopted site. Some parks or green spaces involve monthly volunteer service; others require less-frequent service (e.g., quarterly service).

Do I need to bring tools? 
The Parks Department provides trash bags and gloves. Currently the department can also provide tools such as shovels, rakes, etc. for smaller groups as requested. 

What parks or green spaces can be adopted? 
Adoptable parks and green spaces currently include:

• Academy Square
• Bob Smith Memorial Park
• Booth Park
• Century Park
• Cheadle Lake Park
• Cheadle Lake Trail
• Christopher Columbus 
• Had Irvine
• Mark Slough Trail
• Ralston Park
• Riverview Park
• River Park
• Strawberry Plaza
• "Welcome to Lebanon" sign
• Wynn Mill Park

How are adopters recognized? 
The City of Lebanon, Parks Department, will post a sign at your adopted park or green space, identifying your group as an adopter. These signs are a great way to spread the word about the service you or your group is providing.

How do I get started?  
Complete an Adopt-a-Park / Trail Application and submit it by email to parksres@ci.lebanon.or.us, by mail, or hand delivery to: City of Lebanon, Park Reservations 925 Main Street., Lebanon, OR 97355.  The Operations Coordinator will contact you about available openings.  If there is an opening that matches your schedule and interests, the Operations Coordinator will schedule a meeting with you to go over program details.

General Guidelines

Litter and debris removal, weed control, flower care, reporting vandalism and identifying hazards are the primary responsibilities of the Adopt-A-Park participants. Coordinate projects such as planting trees and shrubs, painting and carpentry with the Parks Division. The Parks Division can provide necessary tools, equipment and materials, as well as trash bags.

Additional Tips for Success

• The best time for group outings is the Monday following busy weekends or days directly after holidays.
• Plan the day with plenty of time for breaks so participants don’t overexert themselves.
• It’s always a good idea to carpool when possible.
• Please notify the Parks Division immediately when vandalism or a potential hazard is observed.
• Have a first aid kit on hand and be aware of local emergency services in case of injury.
• Make your efforts FUN and enjoyable.
• Citizen ideas and suggestions about park area improvements are appreciated.

For more information, contact our Parks Department at (541) 258-4917