Parkwoods is prettier than ever, and it is all thanks to the Earthkeepers’ event that took place on Saturday, Sept. 20. At 9 a.m., around 20 people gathered in Parkwoods to help with weeding, mulching, and cutting the vines or invasive plants. “I think it is a great way to be outdoors and learn how to identify plants and help the community,” said Fortie Chipeta, a junior Public Health major, who helped with mulching, which helps the young trees grow healthier. 

“The involvement of community members from VMRC next door and EMU students has been good,” said Cornelius Deppe, community member and co-owner of Parkwood’s goats. He further mentioned the great effects this has in the ecosystem, saying that “old trees become mulch, helping baby trees grow.” Deppe was called to help by the Biology department since he had planted baby trees in Parkwoods in 2024 in a similar event organized by Earthkeepers. This year they continued the work by cleaning and protecting the woods from invasive plants. 

The Parkwoods trails are a space where Harrisonburg community members and EMU students and faculty can escape the city-like environment and enjoy fresh air from trees. “It feels good to protect the native plants around here and help them grow,” said Business Administration senior Jean Betancourt. Chipeta added that community members like walking the trail to see the animals and trees, so it was a great opportunity to give back to the community, thanking Joshua Stucky and Madelynn Hamm for setting up the event.

Overall the event was a success. “Turnout was more than expected,” said Stucky, senior and Earthkeepers club treasurer. Students who went were offered free lunch and an engagement point, while also learning about the native plants planted in Parkwoods. “It is a good and meaningful work,” Stucky added.