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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260307T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260307T120000
DTSTAMP:20260403T221927
CREATED:20260220T171347Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260220T171347Z
UID:10000908-1772875800-1772884800@ecologyactioncenter.org
SUMMARY:Tree Potting Workday - Saturday March 7\, 2026
DESCRIPTION:Tree Corps time already!? You heard that right! We’re taking advantage of the warm weather and kicking off the winter blues with a tree potting workday! This will be a morning shift 9:30am-12pm. \nSign up at this link: https://ecologyactioncenter.app.neoncrm.com/forms/volunteer?opportunityId=491 \nHelp the Ecology Action Center harvest and pot trees that are planted at our nursery on West Jefferson street so that they can be planted at other sites.  Volunteers must be 18 years old or older or alternately 14 years or older and accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Tools and heavy equipment might be in use and all volunteers must be able to safely use hand tools\, stay on their feet for 3 hours at a time and lift a moderate weight (~15 pounds). Please dress appropriately for weather conditions and working outside. Closed-toed shoes or boots are required – no sandals or flip-flops. More information as well as a confirmation email will be communicated to volunteers prior to the workday and NOT at sign up. \n \n 
URL:https://ecologyactioncenter.org/event/tree-potting-workday-saturday-march-7-2026/
LOCATION:EAC Nursery\, Bloomington\, IL\, 61701
CATEGORIES:Tree Corps,volunteer
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260309T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260309T203000
DTSTAMP:20260403T221927
CREATED:20260225T220400Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260225T220437Z
UID:10000909-1773082800-1773088200@ecologyactioncenter.org
SUMMARY:Native Orchids
DESCRIPTION:Join Dr. Jan Gehring as she introduces us to the wonderful world of Orchids on March 9 starting at 7:00pm.This program will also be livestreamed. The link to join the livestream is https://www.youtube.com/live/vk0j9kEL_y0. \nShe will begin by highlighting their global distribution and species diversity. This will be followed by a discussion of the characteristics of orchids\, including habit\, growth forms\, vegetative traits\, flowers\, and seeds. The presentation will conclude by highlighting the species of orchids native to Central Illinois and their habitats. \nPresenter Bio: \nDr. Jan Gehring grew up on a farm in East-Central Nebraska and began her education in a one-room schoolhouse. She received her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Biology from the University of Nebraska at Omaha. Her Master’s research was on the impacts of red cedar spread on native prairie vegetation . She went on to earn her Ph.D. at the University of Colorado in 1990 where her research was on sexual dimorphism in white campion (Silene latifolia). Following that\, she completed a post-doc at Indiana University from 1993 to 1996. The majority of her career was spent in Peoria where she served as Assistant and Associate Professor of Biology at Bradley University from 1996 to 2020. At Bradley\, she taught courses in evolution\, ecology and plant science. In retirement Dr. Gehring loves traveling to natural areas where she can’t help botanizing everywhere she goes.
URL:https://ecologyactioncenter.org/event/native-orchids/
LOCATION:805 S Cottage Ave Normal IL\, 805 S Cottage Ave\, Normal
ORGANIZER;CN="Illinois Prairie Chapter of Wild Ones":MAILTO:ilprairiewo@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260312T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260312T183000
DTSTAMP:20260403T221927
CREATED:20260213T184550Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260213T225748Z
UID:10000895-1773336600-1773340200@ecologyactioncenter.org
SUMMARY:Rain Barrel Workshop: Thursday\, March 12\, 2026 (5:30-6:30pm)
DESCRIPTION:The EAC’s rain barrel workshops teach attendees about the importance of rain water catchment in preventing storm water runoff pollution! Attendees will learn how to locate\, install\, and set up their rain barrel. We’ll also provide tips to transition downspouts for rain barrel usage\, and information on proper winter storage. Workshops cost $60.00 for general public and $50.00 for EAC Members. \nThroughout our workshop there will be ample opportunity for Q&A with EAC staff\, who can answer questions about beneficial environmental impacts as well as practical everyday use of rain barrels. \nBy the end of the workshop\, participants will have a sound understanding of the individual and community benefits of having a rain barrel\, and can be confident about next steps to install\, use and care for one. Participants will leave with their very own rain barrel made from a repurposed food-grade 55 gallon drum. \n \n*Workshop registration closes 3 days before the workshop start date.* \nThe Ecology Action Center will make reasonable accommodations for participation in public programs and services. To request accommodation\, please call 309-454-3169×11 or go to ecologyactioncenter.org/accommodation. Please provide two weeks advance notice if possible.
URL:https://ecologyactioncenter.org/event/rain-barrel-workshop-thursday-march-12-2026-530pm/
CATEGORIES:Rain Barrel Workshops,Workshops
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260313
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260314
DTSTAMP:20260403T221927
CREATED:20260309T223229Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260312T154421Z
UID:10000913-1773360000-1773446399@ecologyactioncenter.org
SUMMARY:CANCELLED: Tree Prep Workday: March 13\, 2026 (multiple shifts)
DESCRIPTION:Help the Ecology Action Center prepare small (1-3′ tall) bareroot seedling trees for planting. These trees will help to improve air quality\, sequester carbon\, increase wildlife habitat\, and more! Volunteers must be 18 years old or older or alternately 14 years or older and accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Tools and heavy equipment might be in use and all volunteers must be able to safely use hand tools\, stay on their feet for 3 hours at a time and lift a moderate weight (~15 pounds). Please dress appropriately for weather conditions and working outside. Closed-toed shoes or boots are required – no sandals or flip-flops. More information as well as a confirmation email will be communicated to volunteers prior to the workday and NOT at sign up. \nSelect one (or both!) of the shifts by using the button below! \n*This event has been cancelled*
URL:https://ecologyactioncenter.org/event/tree-prep-workday-march-13-2026-multiple-shifts/
CATEGORIES:Tree Corps,volunteer
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260314T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260314T150000
DTSTAMP:20260403T221927
CREATED:20241015T213825Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260224T225844Z
UID:10000717-1773493200-1773500400@ecologyactioncenter.org
SUMMARY:mCLEAN Up Crew Workday
DESCRIPTION:Our local environment needs your help! Join the Ecology Action Center in picking up trash around McLean County for our March mCLEAN Up Crew Workday. Volunteers will use trash grabbers with safety equipment like high visibility vests and gloves to pick up litter around designated areas. Participants must be 18 years or older or 12-17 years old and accompanied by a guardian. Volunteers must be able to spend three hours on their feet and carry a weight of 10-15 pounds. A confirmation email and location information will be communicated 1-2 days prior to the workday. Please register each participant individually.
URL:https://ecologyactioncenter.org/event/mclean-up-crew/
CATEGORIES:Trash Clean Up,volunteer
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260316T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260316T193000
DTSTAMP:20260403T221927
CREATED:20260204T174542Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260204T174622Z
UID:10000896-1773684000-1773689400@ecologyactioncenter.org
SUMMARY:Normal Public Library Seed Swap
DESCRIPTION:Are you interested in putting in a garden this spring? Get ready with an opportunity to exchange seeds at a seed swap on March 16 at Normal Public Library from 6:00-7:30pm. Network with other growing-enthusiasts and dream of what’s possible this growing season. Bring your seeds and check out a full seed library! \nThe seed swap will be followed by educational programming from the U of I Extension Office focusing on vegetable seed starting. \nRegistration is required and space is limited. Register at https://www.normalpl.org/event/npl-seed-swap-42437. Registration opens at 9:00am on March 2.
URL:https://ecologyactioncenter.org/event/normal-public-library-seed-swap/
LOCATION:Normal Public Library\, 206 West College Avenue\, Normal\, IL\, 61761\, United States
GEO:40.5106299;-88.9864996
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Normal Public Library 206 West College Avenue Normal IL 61761 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=206 West College Avenue:geo:-88.9864996,40.5106299
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260318T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260318T210000
DTSTAMP:20260403T221927
CREATED:20260307T172518Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260307T172518Z
UID:10000911-1773860400-1773867600@ecologyactioncenter.org
SUMMARY:2026 Winter Bike Movie 'Bike Vessel'
DESCRIPTION:The Town of Normal is very excited to be showing Bike Vessel as the 2026 “winter bike movie” on Wednesday\, March 18 at 7 p.m. at the Normal Theater. (We’ve hosted an annual bike movie for many years – always a great time!) This movie has a local twist\, featuring a father-and-son duo who ride Route 66 from St. Louis to Chicago in an effort to improve the father’s health. Here’s what they have to say: \nOur main goal is to educate the Black community on prevalent health issues. It is important to us that we not only showcase what an unhealthy lifestyle can lead to\, but also provide a pathway forward and show what types of adjustments can be made to live a lasting\, healthy life. We intend to make Bike Vessel an easily accessible film\, [which is why it is being screened for free]. \n We truly feel like Bike Vessel the film is really the Trojan Horse for the bigger project we have planned: A cross-country tour that celebrates healthy living and a love for cycling. Our campaign will include partnering with health organizations to host screenings and produce literature that people can take after seeing the film. We want the community to leave our events with a greater sense of love for their bodies\, love for their health\, and hopefully\, a new curiosity of exercise through cycling. \nEVEN BETTER\, the father will attend the event for a Q & A following the end of the movie.
URL:https://ecologyactioncenter.org/event/2026-winter-bike-movie-bike-vessel/
LOCATION:Normal Theater\, 209 W North Street\, Normal\, IL\, 61761\, United States
ORGANIZER;CN="Town of Normal":MAILTO:hbeal@normal.org
GEO:40.5094349;-88.9862955
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Normal Theater 209 W North Street Normal IL 61761 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=209 W North Street:geo:-88.9862955,40.5094349
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260319T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260319T153000
DTSTAMP:20260403T221927
CREATED:20260312T154631Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260318T165228Z
UID:10000915-1773925200-1773934200@ecologyactioncenter.org
SUMMARY:Tree Prep Workday: March 19\, 2026 (1:00-3:30pm)
DESCRIPTION:Help the Ecology Action Center prepare small (1-3′ tall) bareroot seedling trees for planting. These trees will help to improve air quality\, sequester carbon\, increase wildlife habitat\, and more! Volunteers must be 18 years old or older or alternately 14 years or older and accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Tools and heavy equipment might be in use and all volunteers must be able to safely use hand tools\, stay on their feet for 3 hours at a time and lift a moderate weight (~15 pounds). Please dress appropriately for weather conditions and working outside. Closed-toed shoes or boots are required – no sandals or flip-flops. More information as well as a confirmation email will be communicated to volunteers prior to the workday and NOT at sign up. \n  \n*Please note that registration is closed for this event*
URL:https://ecologyactioncenter.org/event/tree-prep-workday-march-19-2026-100-330pm/
CATEGORIES:Tree Corps,volunteer
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260320
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260321
DTSTAMP:20260403T221927
CREATED:20260312T154534Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260319T124658Z
UID:10000914-1773964800-1774051199@ecologyactioncenter.org
SUMMARY:Tree Prep Workday: March 20\, 2026 (Multiple Shifts)
DESCRIPTION:Help the Ecology Action Center prepare small (1-3′ tall) bareroot seedling trees for planting. These trees will help to improve air quality\, sequester carbon\, increase wildlife habitat\, and more! Volunteers must be 18 years old or older or alternately 14 years or older and accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Tools and heavy equipment might be in use and all volunteers must be able to safely use hand tools\, stay on their feet for 3 hours at a time and lift a moderate weight (~15 pounds). Please dress appropriately for weather conditions and working outside. Closed-toed shoes or boots are required – no sandals or flip-flops. More information as well as a confirmation email will be communicated to volunteers prior to the workday and NOT at sign up. \nSelect one (or both!) of the shifts by using the button below! \n*Please not that registration is closed at this time*
URL:https://ecologyactioncenter.org/event/tree-prep-workday-march-20-2026-multiple-shifts/
CATEGORIES:Tree Corps,volunteer
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260321
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260322
DTSTAMP:20260403T221927
CREATED:20260312T154804Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260318T163924Z
UID:10000916-1774051200-1774137599@ecologyactioncenter.org
SUMMARY:Tree Corps Workday: March 21\, 2026 (Multiple Shifts)
DESCRIPTION:Help the Ecology Action Center by volunteering with Tree Corps. Trees planted as part of this program will help to improve air quality\, sequester carbon\, increase wildlife habitat\, and more! Volunteers must be 18 years old or older or alternately 14 years or older and accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Tools and heavy equipment might be in use and all volunteers must be able to safely use hand tools\, stay on their feet for 3 hours at a time and lift a moderate weight (~15 pounds). Please dress appropriately for weather conditions and working outside. Closed-toed shoes or boots are required – no sandals or flip-flops. More information as well as a confirmation email will be communicated to volunteers prior to the workday and NOT at sign up. \nSelect one (or both!) of the shifts by using the button below! \n \n*Please note that the morning shift has been closed due to low signups.*
URL:https://ecologyactioncenter.org/event/tree-corps-workday-march-21-2026-multiple-shifts/
CATEGORIES:Tree Corps,volunteer
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260327
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260328
DTSTAMP:20260403T221927
CREATED:20260316T203440Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260326T140441Z
UID:10000918-1774569600-1774655999@ecologyactioncenter.org
SUMMARY:Tree Prep Workday: March 27\, 2026 (Multiple Shifts)
DESCRIPTION:Help the Ecology Action Center prepare small (1-3′ tall) bareroot seedling trees for planting. These trees will help to improve air quality\, sequester carbon\, increase wildlife habitat\, and more! Volunteers must be 18 years old or older or alternately 14 years or older and accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Tools and heavy equipment might be in use and all volunteers must be able to safely use hand tools\, stay on their feet for 3 hours at a time and lift a moderate weight (~15 pounds). Please dress appropriately for weather conditions and working outside. Closed-toed shoes or boots are required – no sandals or flip-flops. More information as well as a confirmation email will be communicated to volunteers prior to the workday and NOT at sign up. \n*The workday sign up is currently closed. If interested in volunteering please call 309-454-3169 ext.13*
URL:https://ecologyactioncenter.org/event/tree-prep-workday-march-27-2026-multiple-shifts/
CATEGORIES:Tree Corps,volunteer
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260327T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260327T110000
DTSTAMP:20260403T221927
CREATED:20260313T193429Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260313T193541Z
UID:10000917-1774605600-1774609200@ecologyactioncenter.org
SUMMARY:Super-Pooping Worm Spectacular!
DESCRIPTION:Join the Ecology Action Center to learn about worms\, and more importantly\, worm poop! During this program\, attendees will get to hear everything about worms’ role on our planet through Polly Owen’s picture book Darwin’s Super-Pooping Worm Spectacular. Once we have learned all there is to know about worms and their poop\, students will get to see these worms at work\, learn about how they differ from humans\, and maybe even feel them squirm on their hands.\n\nThis program is intended for children 5-11 years old who are accompanied by their caregivers. No registration required. All materials needed will be provided. Note: Weather permitting\, this program will take place on the library’s patio. In the case of inclement weather\, the program will take place in Children’s Program Rooms 1 &2.\n\nQuestions about this program can be emailed to Ms. Alysha at childrensstaff@bloomingtonlibrary.org.
URL:https://ecologyactioncenter.org/event/super-pooping-worm-spectacular/
LOCATION:Bloomington Public Library Community Room\, 205 E Olive Street\, Bloomington\, IL\, 61701\, United States
GEO:40.4768209;-88.9921371
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Bloomington Public Library Community Room 205 E Olive Street Bloomington IL 61701 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=205 E Olive Street:geo:-88.9921371,40.4768209
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260328
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260329
DTSTAMP:20260403T221927
CREATED:20260316T203736Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260326T140501Z
UID:10000920-1774656000-1774742399@ecologyactioncenter.org
SUMMARY:Tree Planting Workday: March 28\, 2026 (Multiple Shifts)
DESCRIPTION:Help the Ecology Action Center plant small (1-3 ft tall) bareroot seedling trees to improve air quality\, sequester carbon\, increase wildlife habitat\, and more! \nVolunteers must be 18 or older. Tools and heavy equipment will be in use and all volunteers must be able to safely use hand tools\, stay on their feet for 3 hours at a time and lift a moderate weight (~15 pounds). \nPlease dress appropriately for weather conditions and working outside. Long pants and closed-toed shoes or boots are required; no sandals or flip-flops. More information as well as a confirmation email will be communicated to volunteers prior to the workday and NOT at sign up. \n*The workday sign up is currently closed. If interested in volunteering please call 309-454-3169 ext.13*
URL:https://ecologyactioncenter.org/event/tree-planting-workday-march-28-2026-multiple-shifts/
CATEGORIES:Tree Corps,volunteer
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260329
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260330
DTSTAMP:20260403T221927
CREATED:20260316T203825Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260326T140521Z
UID:10000921-1774742400-1774828799@ecologyactioncenter.org
SUMMARY:Tree Planting Workday: March 29\, 2026 (Multiple Shifts)
DESCRIPTION:Help the Ecology Action Center plant small (1-3 ft tall) bareroot seedling trees to improve air quality\, sequester carbon\, increase wildlife habitat\, and more! \nVolunteers must be 18 or older. Tools and heavy equipment will be in use and all volunteers must be able to safely use hand tools\, stay on their feet for 3 hours at a time and lift a moderate weight (~15 pounds). \nPlease dress appropriately for weather conditions and working outside. Long pants and closed-toed shoes or boots are required; no sandals or flip-flops. More information as well as a confirmation email will be communicated to volunteers prior to the workday and NOT at sign up. \n*The workday sign up is currently closed. If interested in volunteering please call 309-454-3169 ext.13*
URL:https://ecologyactioncenter.org/event/tree-planting-workday-march-29-2026-multiple-shifts/
CATEGORIES:Tree Corps,volunteer
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260330T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260330T200000
DTSTAMP:20260403T221927
CREATED:20260120T152909Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260120T152909Z
UID:10000889-1774897200-1774900800@ecologyactioncenter.org
SUMMARY:What the Whip-poor-will Teaches Us About Forest Management
DESCRIPTION:The Grand Prairie Bird Alliance and the Illinois Wesleyan University Biology Department will sponsor a public presentation about bird ecology on March 30\, 2026. The presentation will be held at 7 p.m. in room C101 at the Center for Natural Science (CNS)\, 201 Beecher Street\, Illinois Wesleyan University (IWU)\, Bloomington. Parking is available in the lot just north of the CNS on Beecher Street. \nDescription: Holly Coates\, a doctoral candidate at the University of Illinois\, will talk about “What the Whip-poor-will Teaches Us About Forest Management.” Eastern Whip-poor-wills are nocturnal\, ground-nesting birds with have a distinctive call that is sometimes repeated for hours on end by males during the breeding season. Unfortunately\, whip-poor-will populations have declined substantially over the past several years. As Midwestern forests become denser and more uniform\, they lose the open\, complex structure whip-poor-wills need to forage and move. Holly’s talk highlights how forest management influences whip-poor-will abundance and persistence\, showing that restoring structural diversity can help support this declining and iconic bird.
URL:https://ecologyactioncenter.org/event/what-the-whip-poor-will-teaches-us-about-forest-management/
LOCATION:Illinois Wesleyan University – Center for Natural Sciences C101\, 201 E. Beecher St.\, Bloomington\, IL\, 61701-7222\, United States
ORGANIZER;CN="Grand Prairie Bird Alliance":MAILTO:jwpaudubon1@gmail.com
GEO:40.4917635;-88.9922751
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Illinois Wesleyan University – Center for Natural Sciences C101 201 E. Beecher St. Bloomington IL 61701-7222 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=201 E. Beecher St.:geo:-88.9922751,40.4917635
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260403
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260404
DTSTAMP:20260403T221927
CREATED:20260316T203519Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260402T155446Z
UID:10000919-1775174400-1775260799@ecologyactioncenter.org
SUMMARY:Tree Prep Workday: April 3\, 2026 (Multiple Shifts)
DESCRIPTION:Help the Ecology Action Center prepare small (1-3′ tall) bareroot seedling trees for planting. These trees will help to improve air quality\, sequester carbon\, increase wildlife habitat\, and more! Volunteers must be 18 years old or older or alternately 14 years or older and accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Tools and heavy equipment might be in use and all volunteers must be able to safely use hand tools\, stay on their feet for 3 hours at a time and lift a moderate weight (~15 pounds). Please dress appropriately for weather conditions and working outside. Closed-toed shoes or boots are required – no sandals or flip-flops. More information as well as a confirmation email will be communicated to volunteers prior to the workday and NOT at sign up. \n  \n*Please note that the workday sign up is closed at this time. Please visit Tree-Corps.org to view other possible tree prep and planting opportunities*
URL:https://ecologyactioncenter.org/event/tree-prep-workday-april-3-2026-multiple-shifts/
CATEGORIES:Tree Corps,volunteer
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260404
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260405
DTSTAMP:20260403T221927
CREATED:20260316T203902Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260402T155517Z
UID:10000922-1775260800-1775347199@ecologyactioncenter.org
SUMMARY:Tree Planting Workday: April 4\, 2026 (Multiple Shifts)
DESCRIPTION:Help the Ecology Action Center plant small (1-3 ft tall) bareroot seedling trees to improve air quality\, sequester carbon\, increase wildlife habitat\, and more! \nVolunteers must be 18 or older. Tools and heavy equipment will be in use and all volunteers must be able to safely use hand tools\, stay on their feet for 3 hours at a time and lift a moderate weight (~15 pounds). \nPlease dress appropriately for weather conditions and working outside. Long pants and closed-toed shoes or boots are required; no sandals or flip-flops. More information as well as a confirmation email will be communicated to volunteers prior to the workday and NOT at sign up. \n*Please note that the workday sign up is closed at this time. Please visit Tree-Corps.org to view other possible tree prep and planting opportunities*
URL:https://ecologyactioncenter.org/event/tree-planting-workday-april-4-2026-multiple-shifts/
CATEGORIES:Tree Corps,volunteer
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260410
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260411
DTSTAMP:20260403T221927
CREATED:20260323T211325Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260323T211325Z
UID:10000930-1775779200-1775865599@ecologyactioncenter.org
SUMMARY:Tree Prep Workday: April 10\, 2026 (Multiple Shifts)
DESCRIPTION:Help the Ecology Action Center prepare small (1-3′ tall) bareroot seedling trees for planting. These trees will help to improve air quality\, sequester carbon\, increase wildlife habitat\, and more! Volunteers must be 18 years old or older or alternately 14 years or older and accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Tools and heavy equipment might be in use and all volunteers must be able to safely use hand tools\, stay on their feet for 3 hours at a time and lift a moderate weight (~15 pounds). Please dress appropriately for weather conditions and working outside. Closed-toed shoes or boots are required – no sandals or flip-flops. More information as well as a confirmation email will be communicated to volunteers prior to the workday and NOT at sign up. \n \n 
URL:https://ecologyactioncenter.org/event/tree-prep-workday-april-10-2026-multiple-shifts/
CATEGORIES:Tree Corps,volunteer
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260411T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260411T100000
DTSTAMP:20260403T221927
CREATED:20260324T160506Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260324T160506Z
UID:10000925-1775894400-1775901600@ecologyactioncenter.org
SUMMARY:Grand Prairie Bird Alliance Bird Outing
DESCRIPTION:Spring migration is upon us\, so there is no better time to join Grand Prairie Bird Alliance for a bird outing! \nJoin local birdwatching experts for this bird outing at S.H. West Park\, (30052 E. 750 North Rd.\, LeRoy) on April 11 from 8:00-10:00am. The outing is appropriate for all ages and all skill levels. There is no pressure to know anything about birds. We can give you some tips\, and we even have loaner binoculars. \nIf you have questions about accessibility\, please email grandprairiebirdalliance@gmail.com.
URL:https://ecologyactioncenter.org/event/grand-prairie-bird-alliance-bird-outing-5/
LOCATION:S.H. West Park\, 30052 E. 750 North Rd.\, Leroy\, IL
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ecologyactioncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Chestnut_sided_warbler.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Grand Prairie Bird Alliance":MAILTO:jwpaudubon1@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260412
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260413
DTSTAMP:20260403T221927
CREATED:20260402T153744Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260402T183946Z
UID:10000933-1775952000-1776038399@ecologyactioncenter.org
SUMMARY:Tree Planting Workday: April 12\, 2026 (Multiple Shifts)
DESCRIPTION:Help the Ecology Action Center plant small (1-3 ft tall) bareroot seedling trees to improve air quality\, sequester carbon\, increase wildlife habitat\, and more! \nVolunteers must be 18 or older. Tools and heavy equipment will be in use and all volunteers must be able to safely use hand tools\, stay on their feet for 3 hours at a time and lift a moderate weight (~15 pounds). \nPlease dress appropriately for weather conditions and working outside. Long pants and closed-toed shoes or boots are required; no sandals or flip-flops. More information as well as a confirmation email will be communicated to volunteers prior to the workday and NOT at sign up.
URL:https://ecologyactioncenter.org/event/tree-planting-workday-april-12-2026-930-1200pm/
CATEGORIES:Tree Corps,volunteer
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260413T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260413T203000
DTSTAMP:20260403T221927
CREATED:20260305T150214Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260305T150214Z
UID:10000910-1776106800-1776112200@ecologyactioncenter.org
SUMMARY:Gardening for Butterflies and Moths
DESCRIPTION:Join the Illinois Prairie Chapter of Wild Ones for a presentation by Alan Branhagen\, Executive Director of the Natural Land Institute\, on April 13 from 7-8:30pm at 805 South Cottage Avenue in Normal. He will introduce attendees to the marvelous array of butterflies (and moths) that can be found in our region. Attendees will learn about the various species found here\, their status\, how we can attract them to yards with their host and nectar plants and even ways to garden or maintain our landscapes as to not harm them. Alan hopes the program inspires some reverence for these amazing insects\, that sadly\, are in trouble. What you see now is the new normal\, but it is not normal. Luckily\, these insects have the resiliency to rebound if given a chance. \nPresenter Bio: \nAlan Branhagen is the Executive Director of the Natural Land Institute in Rockford\, Illinois: one of the nation’s first land trusts and organization. Alan was Director of Operations at the University of Minnesota Landscape Arboretum in suburban Minneapolis-St. Paul (America’s 15th largest public botanical garden) from 2017-2023 where he managed Horticulture\, Plant Curation\, and Natural Resource Management. For over 20 years he was the Director of Horticulture at Powell Gardens\, Kansas City’s botanical garden where he oversaw all horticulture and site planning as well as resource management of the 915-acre site. He is also the author of the books Native Plants of the Midwest: A Comprehensive Guide to the Best 500 Species for the Garden and The Midwest Native Plant Primer: 225 Plants for an Earth-Friendly Garden. \nAlan’s career began at the Forest Preserves of Winnebago County in Rockford\, Illinois in 1987. For almost a decade he oversaw all forest preserves’ planning\, development\, and management. He was part of the beginning of the Klehm Arboretum which launched his public horticulture career. Alan’s career has come full circle back to Rockford. Alan has a Bachelor’s of Landscape Architecture from Iowa State University and a Masters of Landscape Architecture from Louisiana State University.
URL:https://ecologyactioncenter.org/event/gardening-for-butterflies-and-moths/
LOCATION:805 S Cottage Ave Normal IL\, 805 S Cottage Ave\, Normal
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://ecologyactioncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/91688cf0-bb09-4d6b-ae60-608775bede17.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="Illinois Prairie Chapter of Wild Ones":MAILTO:ilprairiewo@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260414T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260414T183000
DTSTAMP:20260403T221928
CREATED:20260213T191040Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260213T225700Z
UID:10000900-1776187800-1776191400@ecologyactioncenter.org
SUMMARY:Rain Barrel Workshop: Tuesday\, April 14\, 2026 (5:30-6:30pm)
DESCRIPTION:The EAC’s rain barrel workshops teach attendees about the importance of rain water catchment in preventing storm water runoff pollution! Attendees will learn how to locate\, install\, and set up their rain barrel. We’ll also provide tips to transition downspouts for rain barrel usage\, and information on proper winter storage. Workshops cost $60.00 for general public and $50.00 for EAC Members. \nThroughout our workshop there will be ample opportunity for Q&A with EAC staff\, who can answer questions about beneficial environmental impacts as well as practical everyday use of rain barrels. \nBy the end of the workshop\, participants will have a sound understanding of the individual and community benefits of having a rain barrel\, and can be confident about next steps to install\, use and care for one. Participants will leave with their very own rain barrel made from a repurposed food-grade 55 gallon drum. \n \n*Workshop registration closes 3 days before the workshop start date.* \nThe Ecology Action Center will make reasonable accommodations for participation in public programs and services. To request accommodation\, please call 309-454-3169×11 or go to ecologyactioncenter.org/accommodation. Please provide two weeks advance notice if possible.
URL:https://ecologyactioncenter.org/event/rain-barrel-workshop-tuesday-april-14-2026-530pm/
CATEGORIES:Rain Barrel Workshops,Workshops
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260417
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260418
DTSTAMP:20260403T221928
CREATED:20260402T184342Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260402T184342Z
UID:10000940-1776384000-1776470399@ecologyactioncenter.org
SUMMARY:Tree Prep Workday: April 17\, 2026 (9:30-12:00pm)
DESCRIPTION:Help the Ecology Action Center prepare small (1-3′ tall) bareroot seedling trees for planting. These trees will help to improve air quality\, sequester carbon\, increase wildlife habitat\, and more! Volunteers must be 18 years old or older or alternately 14 years or older and accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Tools and heavy equipment might be in use and all volunteers must be able to safely use hand tools\, stay on their feet for 3 hours at a time and lift a moderate weight (~15 pounds). Please dress appropriately for weather conditions and working outside. Closed-toed shoes or boots are required – no sandals or flip-flops. More information as well as a confirmation email will be communicated to volunteers prior to the workday and NOT at sign up.
URL:https://ecologyactioncenter.org/event/tree-prep-workday-april-17-2026-930-1200pm/
CATEGORIES:Tree Corps,volunteer
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260418T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260418T100000
DTSTAMP:20260403T221928
CREATED:20260324T155617Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260324T155617Z
UID:10000926-1776499200-1776506400@ecologyactioncenter.org
SUMMARY:Grand Prairie Bird Alliance Bird Outing
DESCRIPTION:Spring migration is upon us\, so there is no better time to join Grand Prairie Bird Alliance for a bird outing! \nJoin local birdwatching experts for this bird outing at the ParkLands Foundation Moon Tract\, (Inner Loop Road\, Lake Bloomington) on April 18 from 8:00-10:00am. The outing is appropriate for all ages and all skill levels. There is no pressure to know anything about birds. We can give you some tips\, and we even have loaner binoculars We hope you can join us! \nIf you have questions about accessibility\, please email grandprairiebirdalliance@gmail.com.
URL:https://ecologyactioncenter.org/event/grand-prairie-bird-alliance-bird-outing-4/
LOCATION:ParkLands Foundation Moon Tract\, (Inner Loop Road\, Lake Bloomington)\, Inner Loop Road\, Lake Bloomington
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://ecologyactioncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/redheaded.png
ORGANIZER;CN="Grand Prairie Bird Alliance":MAILTO:jwpaudubon1@gmail.com
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260418T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260418T120000
DTSTAMP:20260403T221928
CREATED:20230815T150856Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260325T140347Z
UID:10000472-1776502800-1776513600@ecologyactioncenter.org
SUMMARY:Sugar Creek Stewards Workday
DESCRIPTION:Come join us for our April workday along Sugar Creek! We need help improving Sugar Creek in designated areas throughout Bloomington and Normal\, by clearing invasive plant species and managing the non-invasive plants. \nVolunteers must be 18 years old or older (or 14 and accompanied by a parent or guardian) and be able to hike along uneven terrain and safely use basic hand tools such as loppers and bow saws. \nThe Sugar Creek Stewards is part of the Ecology Action Center’s Clean Water programming\, and is supported by the Bloomington-Normal Water Reclamation District\, the City of Bloomington and the Town of Normal. For more information\, contact us.
URL:https://ecologyactioncenter.org/event/sugar-creek-stewards-workday/
CATEGORIES:Sugar Creek Stewards,volunteer
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260418T093000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260418T113000
DTSTAMP:20260403T221928
CREATED:20260402T153941Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260402T153941Z
UID:10000934-1776504600-1776511800@ecologyactioncenter.org
SUMMARY:Tree Planting Workday: April 18\, 2026 (9:30-11:30am)
DESCRIPTION:Help the Ecology Action Center plant small (1-3 ft tall) bareroot seedling trees to improve air quality\, sequester carbon\, increase wildlife habitat\, and more! \nVolunteers must be 18 or older or alternatively 13 or older with a parent or guardian present. Tools and heavy equipment will be in use and all volunteers must be able to safely use hand tools\, stay on their feet for 3 hours at a time and lift a moderate weight (~15 pounds). \nPlease dress appropriately for weather conditions and working outside. Long pants and closed-toed shoes or boots are required; no sandals or flip-flops. More information as well as a confirmation email will be communicated to volunteers prior to the workday and NOT at sign up.
URL:https://ecologyactioncenter.org/event/tree-planting-workday-april-18-2026-930-1130am/
CATEGORIES:Tree Corps,volunteer
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260419
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260420
DTSTAMP:20260403T221928
CREATED:20260402T154128Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260402T155923Z
UID:10000935-1776556800-1776643199@ecologyactioncenter.org
SUMMARY:Tree Planting Workday: April 19\, 2026 (Multiple Shifts)
DESCRIPTION:Help the Ecology Action Center plant small (1-3 ft tall) bareroot seedling trees to improve air quality\, sequester carbon\, increase wildlife habitat\, and more! \nVolunteers must be 18 or older or alternatively 13 or older with a parent or guardian present. Tools and heavy equipment will be in use and all volunteers must be able to safely use hand tools\, stay on their feet for 3 hours at a time and lift a moderate weight (~15 pounds). \nPlease dress appropriately for weather conditions and working outside. Long pants and closed-toed shoes or boots are required; no sandals or flip-flops. More information as well as a confirmation email will be communicated to volunteers prior to the workday and NOT at sign up.
URL:https://ecologyactioncenter.org/event/tree-planting-workday-april-19-2026-multiple-shifts/
CATEGORIES:Tree Corps,volunteer
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20260421T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20260421T183000
DTSTAMP:20260403T221928
CREATED:20250718T215437Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260213T192730Z
UID:10000834-1776792600-1776796200@ecologyactioncenter.org
SUMMARY:Vermicomposting Workshop- Tuesday\, April 21\, 2026 (5:30-6:30pm)
DESCRIPTION:Love to cook and are looking for a way to compost your food scraps\, but backyard composting isn’t an option for you? Try Vermicomposting or composting with worms! Vermicomposting is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint and stop food waste in your home. No backyard or large area required\, so this is perfect for apartments\, dorms\, etc.\, plus it is basically odorless! \nThe Workshop costs $35.00 to participate and space is limited. Workshop fee includes all materials including worms\, worm bedding\, a bin to host your worm farm\, and all the knowledge you need to start vermicomposting. We will specifically be going over the benefits of vermicomposting\, how to start\, how to harvest castings\, and how to troubleshoot common problems. Registration is required and closes one week before workshop date. \n \n \nThe Ecology Action Center will make reasonable accommodations for participation in public programs and services. To request accommodation\, please call 309-454-3169×11 or go to ecologyactioncenter.org/accommodation. Please provide two weeks advance notice if possible.
URL:https://ecologyactioncenter.org/event/vermicomposting-workshop-wednesday-october-22-2025-530-630pm/
CATEGORIES:Compost Workshops,Workshops
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260422
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260423
DTSTAMP:20260403T221928
CREATED:20260402T155336Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260402T160042Z
UID:10000939-1776816000-1776902399@ecologyactioncenter.org
SUMMARY:Earth Day Tree Planting: April 22\, 2026 (Multiple Shifts)
DESCRIPTION:Help the Ecology Action Center plant small (1-3 ft tall) bareroot seedling trees to improve air quality\, sequester carbon\, increase wildlife habitat\, and more! \nVolunteers must be 18 or older. Tools and heavy equipment will be in use and all volunteers must be able to safely use hand tools\, stay on their feet for 3 hours at a time and lift a moderate weight (~15 pounds). \nPlease dress appropriately for weather conditions and working outside. Long pants and closed-toed shoes or boots are required; no sandals or flip-flops. More information as well as a confirmation email will be communicated to volunteers prior to the workday and NOT at sign up. Sign up below.
URL:https://ecologyactioncenter.org/event/earth-day-tree-planting-april-22-2026-multiple-shifts/
CATEGORIES:Tree Corps,volunteer
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260424
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260428
DTSTAMP:20260403T221928
CREATED:20260326T213033Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260326T213157Z
UID:10000932-1776988800-1777334399@ecologyactioncenter.org
SUMMARY:Central Illinois 2026 City Nature Challenge
DESCRIPTION:The Grand Prairie Master Naturalists would like to invite you and your network to join the City Nature Challenge 2026. From Friday\, April 24 to Monday\, April 27\, 2026\, cities around the world will be using the iNaturalist app to find and photograph as many wild plants\, animals\, and fungi as possible. Our observations will help scientists and land managers better understand the species that thrive in our region. \nNo expertise is needed! Anyone aged 13+ can participate\, and it’s completely free and easy. \nHow to Participate:\n\nDownload the App: Get the free iNaturalist app on your smartphone (available on the App Store or Google Play) and create an account. Training for using the app will be offered; please look out for training announcements in the future.\nFind Wildlife: Explore your local park\, backyard\, neighborhood\, or natural area and take pictures of any wild plants\, fungi\, or animals you find from April 24-27. (If it’s a garden plant or pet\, please mark it as “captive/cultivated” in the app; these will not count towards the City Nature Challenge).\nShare! Upload your observations to the iNaturalist app during the challenge period (April 24 – April 27). Observations within Central Illinois’ participating counties’ boundaries will automatically count towards our area’s total.\nHelp Identify: As the data is collected and submitted\, you can help identify the species observed by other participants to build a better understanding of local biodiversity\n\nWhy Participate?\n\nLearn: Discover the amazing organisms you share your city with.\nContribute to Science: Your observations provide valuable data for conservation efforts and scientific research.\nCompete: Help Central Illinois rise on the global leaderboards for the most observations\, species\, and participants!\n\nFor more information and local events\, email us at cicnc2026@gmail.com or the visit official website at citynaturechallenge.org.
URL:https://ecologyactioncenter.org/event/central-illinois-for-the-2026-city-nature-challenge/
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR