Citizens in northeast Denver will join forces with Volunteers for Outdoor Colorado on Earth Day to make big improvements to Parkfield Park. Volunteers will plant 71 trees and install over a mile of walking path. . The tree planting is a part of Denver's initiative to plant 7,000 trees in the 7 days from Earth Day, April 21 to Arbor Day, April 28. The new trees will improve habitat for Parkfield's abundant wildlife, and make the park more enjoyable for neighborhood residents.

Parkfield is an undeveloped natural area that includes a large pond, wetlands, and grass lands. The park is home to a multitude of waterfowl, song birds, raptors, fish, mammals, amphibians and reptiles. The trail being installed will provide better access and wildlife viewing for neighbors and students at the elementary and middle schools adjacent to Parkfield.

The project is being staged by Volunteers for Outdoor Colorado (VOC) and DenverParks and Recreation. Residents of Montbello, Parkfield and Green Valley Ranch are urged to join in for a day of fulfilling work and fun. Experience is not needed. Knowledgeable crew leaderswill show volunteers what to do. VOC will bring tools and food.

"This project will be a great way to celebrate Earth Day, building trail and planting trees with friends and neighbors", says VOC team leader Gordon Carruth. Caruth and the project team have been planning the project for several months. "We'll make a big difference that many people will enjoy for years to come."

Help from the public is needed and welcome to improve this urban retreat. Up to 400 volunteers are expected so pre-registration is requested. Sign up or get more information at www.voc.org, by calling 303-715-1010 (800-925-2220 outside of metro Denver) or by emailing voc@voc.org. Projects fill up so sign up today.