Composting Basics at Gridley Public Library

Want to learn more about how food waste impacts our environment and what you can do to help? Join the Composting Basics presentation at Gridley Public Library in Gridley, IL on May 7, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. to learn more and help celebrate International Compost Awareness Wee......More

Want to learn more about how food waste impacts our environment and what you can do to help? Join the Composting Basics presentation at Gridley Public Library in Gridley, IL on May 7, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. to learn more and help celebrate International Compost Awareness Week! This presentation will be talking about how food waste breaks down in the landfill vs how food breaks down through composting. It will also discuss three different methods of composting (commercial/community composting, backyard composting, and vermicomposting) and how to get started diverting your food waste today! Contact the Gridley Public Library at (309) 747-2284 and let them know you’re attending!

Gridley Public Library, 320 North Center Street, Gridley, 61744, United States

Composting Field Trip to the ISU Farm: May 8, 2025 (10:00-11:30am)

What happens to your landscape waste after it is picked up from the curb? In honor of International Compost Awareness Week, join Ecology Action Center and Jason Lindbom of the ISU Farm to learn how composting works, what gets composted at the farm, and what you can do t......More

What happens to your landscape waste after it is picked up from the curb? In honor of International Compost Awareness Week, join Ecology Action Center and Jason Lindbom of the ISU Farm to learn how composting works, what gets composted at the farm, and what you can do to help keep the system free of contamination. We will then take a tour of the farm! This event will take place at the Illinois State University Farm in Lexington. Reservations are required and space is limited. Please register at https://www.normalpl.org/event/composting-field-trip-isu-farm-35736   

ISU Farm, 25578 ISU Farm Lane, Lexington, 61753, United States

Backyard Composting Workshop: Thursday, May 8, 2025 (5:30-6:30pm)

The EAC’s compost workshop will cover the basics of backyard composting. You’ll learn basic techniques to build your compost pile, discuss what materials to include, and talk about what to do with compostable materials that don’t work in a backyard setting. This worksho......More

The EAC’s compost workshop will cover the basics of backyard composting. You’ll learn basic techniques to build your compost pile, discuss what materials to include, and talk about what to do with compostable materials that don’t work in a backyard setting. This workshop will additionally help participants understand how to monitor and maintain their compost, as well as how to know when their compost is done and safe to use! Our educators will provide resources for help identifying jumping worms, and tips for using your compost bin, thermometer, and stirrer to keep them at bay. By the end of the workshop, participants will have a sound understanding of the individual and community benefits of composting, and can be confident about next steps to set up and monitor compost in their own backyard. For $35 ($25 for EAC members) attendees get backyard composting best practices information and a basic compost bin from a repurposed 55-gallon drum to take home. For $110, attendees get this same compost bin, backyard composting best practices information, a large thermometer to monitor compost pile temperature, and an aerator for stirring their compost pile. For $120 ($100 for EAC members) attendees receive best practices information and a 275-gallon MEGA Composter made from a repurposed food-grade “tote” with durable plastic cube supported by heavy metal cage. Wooden slates added to help stir and remove compost. *Workshop registration closes 3 days before the workshop.* The 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.

Tree Re-Potting Workday - May 9, 2025 (1-4pm)

Help the Ecology Action Center harvest and re-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 g......More

Help the Ecology Action Center harvest and re-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. *Please note that registration is required for this event. Registration will end at noon the day before the volunteer event. For questions, please contact 309-454-3169.*  

Tree Planting Workday-May 10 2025 (Multiple Shifts)

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! Volunteers must be 18 or older, or alternatively 14 or older if accompanied by a parent or guardian. Tools and......More

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! Volunteers must be 18 or older, or alternatively 14 or older if accompanied by a parent or guardian. 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). Please 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. Select one (or both!) of the shifts below: Morning 9-11:30am shift Afternoon 12:30-3pm shift *Please note that registration is required for this event. Registration will end at noon the day before the volunteer event. For questions, please contact 309-454-3169.*

Rain Barrel Workshop: Saturday, May 10, 2025 (9:00-10:00am)

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 ......More

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 $55.00 for general public and $45.00 for EAC Members. Throughout 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. By 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. *Workshop registration closes 3 days before the workshop start date.* The 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.

mCLEAN Up Crew Workday in partnership with HSHM: May 10, 2025 (9:00-12:00pm)

The May 10 mCLEAN Up Crew workday is in partnership with Home Sweet Home Ministries (HSHM). This month volunteers will be assisting in cleaning up near Sugar creek off of South Center Street in Normal. We thank you for offering your time to help clean a site that provid......More

The May 10 mCLEAN Up Crew workday is in partnership with Home Sweet Home Ministries (HSHM). This month volunteers will be assisting in cleaning up near Sugar creek off of South Center Street in Normal. We thank you for offering your time to help clean a site that provides shelter to individuals experiencing homelessness. Please note that this site is home to members of our community, and as such, we ask that all volunteers approach this work with compassion, respect, and an open heart. We kindly request that you leave any judgment or discrimination aside, recognizing that the residents here are human beings with unique stories and experiences. This volunteer opportunity is about creating a safe, clean, and dignified environment for all, and we appreciate your commitment to treating everyone with the utmost respect. Your involvement is crucial in fostering a sense of community and supporting our collective well-being. We are grateful for your dedication and willingness to make a positive impact. Volunteers will use provided trash grabbers, puncture proof gloves, and trash bags to remove litter. Volunteers must be 18+ years old for this opportunity due to possibility of sharps at the pickup location. 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 note that registration is required for this event. Registration will end at noon the day before the volunteer event. For questions, please contact 309-454-3169.*

Backyard Composting Workshop: Saturday, May 10, 2025 (10:30-11:30am)

The EAC’s compost workshop will cover the basics of backyard composting. You’ll learn basic techniques to build your compost pile, discuss what materials to include, and talk about what to do with compostable materials that don’t work in a backyard setting. This worksho......More

The EAC’s compost workshop will cover the basics of backyard composting. You’ll learn basic techniques to build your compost pile, discuss what materials to include, and talk about what to do with compostable materials that don’t work in a backyard setting. This workshop will additionally help participants understand how to monitor and maintain their compost, as well as how to know when their compost is done and safe to use! Our educators will provide resources for help identifying jumping worms, and tips for using your compost bin, thermometer, and stirrer to keep them at bay. By the end of the workshop, participants will have a sound understanding of the individual and community benefits of composting, and can be confident about next steps to set up and monitor compost in their own backyard. For $35 ($25 for EAC members) attendees get backyard composting best practices information and a basic compost bin from a repurposed 55-gallon drum to take home. For $110, attendees get this same compost bin, backyard composting best practices information, a large thermometer to monitor compost pile temperature, and an aerator for stirring their compost pile. For $120 ($100 for EAC members) attendees receive best practices information and a 275-gallon MEGA Composter made from a repurposed food-grade “tote” with durable plastic cube supported by heavy metal cage. Wooden slates added to help stir and remove compost. *Workshop registration closes 3 days before the workshop.* The 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.

Vermicomposting Workshop- Saturday, May 10, 2025 (12:00-1:00pm)

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 backyar......More

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. The 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. The 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.

Storm Drain Stenciling-May 12, 2025 (7:00-9:00am)

Join the Ecology Action Center for some Storm Drain Stenciling! This volunteer activity educates residents about the dangers of storm water runoff pollution, and provides information on how to reduce individual contributions to storm water runoff pollution. Join us to s......More

Join the Ecology Action Center for some Storm Drain Stenciling! This volunteer activity educates residents about the dangers of storm water runoff pollution, and provides information on how to reduce individual contributions to storm water runoff pollution. Join us to stencil “Drains to Stream, Keep it Clean” at neighborhood storm drains and distribute informational door hangers to remind residents about the dangers of storm water runoff pollution and how they can prevent it. Participants must be 18 years or older or 12-17 years old and accompanied by a guardian. More information regarding location and parking will be sent on the day before the volunteer day. This volunteer event needs a minimum of 6 people. Please register each participant individually. Please note that registration is required for this event. Registration will end at noon the day before the volunteer event. For questions, please contact 309-454-3169.  

Unique Adaptations in Prairie Plants

The tallgrass prairie ecosystem is one of the rarest ecosystems in the world. It’s home to plants uniquely adapted to their soil microorganisms, precipitation, pollinators, and light conditions. On May 12 at 7pm Sydney Metternich will talk about how prairie plant specie......More

The tallgrass prairie ecosystem is one of the rarest ecosystems in the world. It’s home to plants uniquely adapted to their soil microorganisms, precipitation, pollinators, and light conditions. On May 12 at 7pm Sydney Metternich will talk about how prairie plant species are adapted to their soil microbial communities and consider how those communities change with the level of precipitation across the Midwestern United States. Hear about the performance of pale-spike lobelia (Lobelia spicata), round-headed bush clover (Lespedeza capitata), big bluestem (Andropogon gerardii), and rosinweed (Silphium integrifolium) in recent research by the Byers Lab at Illinois State University. Learn how adaptations in prairie plants can shift our expectations to their future success and how this work applies to planting your own garden spaces.   Note: This program will be held in-person and by livestream. A link to join the livestream will be posted to the Illinois Prairie Wild Ones website below closer to the program date. A recording of the program will be made available to chapter members soon after the program.

805 S Cottage Ave Normal IL, 805 S Cottage Ave, Normal

Storm Drain Stenciling-May 13, 2025 (4:30-6:30pm)

Join the Ecology Action Center for some Storm Drain Stenciling! This volunteer activity educates residents about the dangers of storm water runoff pollution, and provides information on how to reduce individual contributions to storm water runoff pollution. Join us to s......More

Join the Ecology Action Center for some Storm Drain Stenciling! This volunteer activity educates residents about the dangers of storm water runoff pollution, and provides information on how to reduce individual contributions to storm water runoff pollution. Join us to stencil “Drains to Stream, Keep it Clean” at neighborhood storm drains and distribute informational door hangers to remind residents about the dangers of storm water runoff pollution and how they can prevent it. Participants must be 18 years or older or 12-17 years old and accompanied by a guardian. More information regarding location and parking will be sent on the day before the volunteer day. This volunteer event needs a minimum of 6 people. Please register each participant individually. Please note that registration is required for this event. Registration will end at noon the day before the volunteer event. For questions, please contact 309-454-3169.  

Tree Planting with Friends of the Constitution Trail in Chenoa: May 16, 2025

Friends of the Constitution Trail2025 Spring Tree Planting in Chenoa, IL Volunteers will use shovels and other tools to plant root-ball sapling trees – 6-8 feet tall. Volunteers must be 18 years old or older or alternately 12 years or older and accompanied by a parent o......More

Friends of the Constitution Trail2025 Spring Tree Planting in Chenoa, IL Volunteers will use shovels and other tools to plant root-ball sapling trees – 6-8 feet tall. Volunteers must be 18 years old or older or alternately 12 years or older and accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Tools and heavy equipment will be in use and all volunteers must be able to safely use hand tools, stay on their feet for 2 hours at a time and lift a moderate weight (25 pounds). Please dress appropriately for weather conditions and working outside. Closed-toed shoes or boots are required – no sandals or flip-flops. Multiple two hour shifts available between 8:30am and 4:30pm on Friday May 16, 2025 Tree Planting shift sign up  

Illinois Prairie Wild Ones Native Plant Sale

Available for sale will be a variety of central Illinois native plants that will provide blooms for the entire growing season! These plants will help support hummingbirds, bees, butterflies and more. A tentative list of plants for sale is available at https://illinoispr......More

Available for sale will be a variety of central Illinois native plants that will provide blooms for the entire growing season! These plants will help support hummingbirds, bees, butterflies and more. A tentative list of plants for sale is available at https://illinoisprairie.wildones.org/nativeplantsale/. Availability subject to change. Chapter members get a discount on all plants. Proceeds from the sale help fund monthly educational programs and native planting projects. Join or renew online to save time at the Plant Sale and enjoy the member discount. There will also be the option to join/renew the day of the sale using cash or check. QUESTIONS: Please email us at [email protected]

White Oak Township Community Building (202 Lincoln St. N., Carlock, IL), 202 Lincoln St N, Carlock, 61725

Sugar Creek Stewards Workday

Come join us for our May 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. Volunteers must be 18 years old or older (or 14 and ac......More

Come join us for our May 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. Volunteers 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. The 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. Participants will be emailed confirmation and workday information the Friday before the workday.  Please note that registration is required for this event. Registration will end at noon the day before the volunteer event. For questions, please contact 309-454-3169.