BALDWINSVILLE, N.Y. — More than 30 student volunteers with ASEZ (Save the Earth from A to Z) joined Onondaga County officials Sunday, Aug. 3, to remove invasive plant species at Beaver Lake Nature Center.
The cleanup effort, part of ASEZ’s global Green Carbon Movement, focused on protecting native biodiversity by eliminating non-native plants that threaten local ecosystems. Volunteers were guided by park staff and joined by County Parks Commissioner Brian Kelley and Elizabeth Bough Martin, director of the Office of the Environment.
“Initiatives like this create incredible opportunities to provide impactful educational experiences to the community,” Kelley said.
Beaver Lake Nature Center spans 670 acres and is home to diverse wildlife, including herons, beavers and bald eagles. The park is a popular destination for hiking, birdwatching and nature programs.
Syracuse University student Naomi Peters said the experience was eye-opening. “It reminded me that small actions can have a big impact,” she said.
ASEZ is a university student volunteer group of the World Mission Society Church of God, active in 175 countries.