Park Working Groups

Park working groups are designed to enable park volunteers to share information and resources, work together, troubleshoot, and design strategic plans.  They allow group members to coordinate the activities of organizations (such as city or community groups, corporations, and clubs) that are doing things in the parks. 

If there is an issue that you are passionate about relating to park management (such as bikes, dogs, invasive plants, water quality, or restoration activities) maybe you would like to be involved in one of the park working groups.

The Frick Park working group is currently working to coordinate work projects between partner organizations in Frick Park in order to maximize volunteer opportunities in the restoration of Nine Mile Run, Clayton Hill, and other project areas in Frick Park where invasive species or erosion are issues.  For more information, contact Jake Milofsky at the Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy at 412-682-7275, ext. 221.

The Highland Park working group is focusing on seasonal pools development and the Washington Blvd. bike trail.  The group also has over a dozen Urban EcoStewards working to maintain the park.  For more information about the Highland Park working group, contact Gudrun Wells at the Parks Conservancy at 412-682-7275, ext. 222.

A Research and Monitoring Group exists in Schenley Park with representatives from Carnegie Mellon University, Duquesne University, Chatham College, and Carlow University.  For more information about the Schenley Park working group, contact Erin Copeland at the Parks Conservancy at 412-682-7275, ext. 218.

A Riverview Park working group is set to begin soon.  The Parks Conservancy is working closely with the Department of Public Works and the Urban EcoStewards to further restoration activities at the Chapel Shelter and Snyder's Point to prepare for the group's formation. 

Upcoming Events

Spring volunteer work days start up in March. Check out the schedule and help keep our parks beautiful. 

See photos of the restoration progress at Mellon Square on our Flickr site.

Stay up-to-date with our current projects on our blog.

Info for Volunteers

What to bring: Long pants, closed-toe shoes with good tread, all-weather clothing, a reusable water bottle (if you have one).

What will be provided: All necessary tools, gloves, materials, snacks, and instruction.

What to expect:  Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy volunteer work days are typically 4 hours long, rain or shine, and involve some type of ecological restoration work such as planting trees or wildflowers, controlling erosion, building trails, managing invasive species, or cleaning up dumpsites. We’ll teach you everything you need to know about safety and technique, provide you with tools and materials, and help you make a difference in our amazing parks. Expect to have fun, meet people who love the outdoors, and get dirty!