2026 MOT Clean-Up & Habitat Stewardship Campaign

The 2026 MIchelle Obama Trail Clean-Up Campaign is a standing monthly stewardship initiative focused equally on litter removal and introduced plant species management.

On the third Saturday of each month, community members gather to clear debris from park grounds and surrounding streets while also removing introduced plant species that compete with native vegetation. These dual efforts work together to improve site conditions, protect habitat, and strengthen the long-term ecological health of the Michelle Obama .

This is not a one-time clean-up. It is structured, recurring habitat care.

In collaboration with DeKalb County Government, DeKalb County Recreation, Parks & Cultural Affairs, Park Pride, Gresham Guardians, South DeKalb Parks Naturalist, Grow Our Garden ATL, Neighbors of Gresham Park, Gresham Park Rattlers, and Pangean World, this campaign establishes a steady rhythm of environmental responsibility and visible neighborhood impact.

Through consistent monthly action, we are keeping Gresham Park clean, cared for, and ecologically supported.

Cameron Geer

Neighbors of Gresham Park

Tasha Messer

DeKalb County RPCA Park Naturalist

This program will be held rain or shine unless conditions are deemed unsafe by DeKalb County Recreation, Parks & Cultural Affairs (RPCA).

The Georgia State University (GSU) Perimeter College Decatur Campus

2901 Clifton Springs Rd, Decatur, GA 30034

Please note that there are no restrooms available on site. Participants are encouraged to plan accordingly prior to arrival.

Time: 8 a.m. - 10 a.m.

Ongoing - time subject to seasonal change

Summer Hours (8–10 AM)
• May 16, 2026 (8–10 AM)
• June 20, 2026 (8–10 AM)
• July 18, 2026 (8–10 AM)
• August 15, 2026 (8–10 AM)

Special Alignment Dates
• September 26, 2026 – Supporting Forest Fashion Show & Festival (No on-site activation)
• December 26, 2026 – Holiday Pause / MLK Day of Service 2027 Preparation

• Weather-appropriate clothing that can get dirty
• Closed-toe, sturdy footwear suitable for walking and light outdoor work
• A refillable water bottle
• Work gloves (please bring your own if you have them)
• Hand tools such as pruners, loppers, or small hand trowels if available

All additional supplies will be provided. Bringing your own gloves and tools helps increase efficiency and reduces shared equipment needs.

This program is designed for adults and teens, though participants of all ages are welcome.

Participants will:

• Remove litter from park grounds and surrounding streets to create cleaner, safer community spaces
• Identify and remove introduced plant species to support native plant recovery
• Engage in hands-on outdoor work that provides light-to-moderate physical activity
• Slow down and notice seasonal changes, plant patterns, and habitat shifts
• Experience the mental clarity that comes from purposeful time outdoors
• Contribute to visible, measurable improvements that build pride and connection

Each month builds on the last. Areas we care for begin to show progress. Native growth rebounds. Footpaths feel more welcoming. The landscape responds to consistency.

Stewardship is not only environmental — it supports physical movement, stress reduction, and a stronger sense of place.

Together, we care for the land — and benefit from the wellness that comes with it.

Light-to-moderate physical activity that includes steady walking, bending, reaching, light lifting, and brief periods of focused plant removal. Work takes place primarily on paved surfaces and park grounds, with occasional transitions to grass or mixed terrain. Participants move at a comfortable, community-paced rhythm with flexibility to rest as needed.

DeKalb County Recreation, Parks & Cultural Affairs is committed to providing inclusive and accessible programs. Reasonable accommodations may be available upon request. To request an accommodation, please contact the program organizer at least 48 hours in advance of the event.

By registering for or attending this program, participants acknowledge that outdoor activities involve inherent risks, including but not limited to uneven terrain, weather conditions, physical exertion, and use of tools. Participation is voluntary, and attendees assume full responsibility for their own safety and well-being.

Participants agree to release, indemnify, and hold harmless DeKalb County Government, the Department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Affairs (RPCA), its officers, employees, agents, volunteers, and affiliated partners from any claims, injuries, losses, or liabilities arising from participation, except in cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct.

Food or refreshments may occasionally be served or shared. Participants acknowledge that food may contain common allergens and choose to consume any food or beverages at their own risk.

By attending, participants grant permission for DeKalb County RPCA and Park Naturalist–led programs to photograph or record them for educational, promotional, reporting, and documentation purposes across print and digital platforms. Individual image requests cannot be accommodated.

Registration and attendance indicate agreement with the Park Naturalist Program – Volunteer Waiver, Food & Beverage Disclaimer, and Media Release on file with DeKalb County RPCA.

Naturalist Tasha, South DeKalb Park Naturalist –

[email protected]

Park Steward Cameron Geer, Neighbors of Gresham Park - [email protected]

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Host or Publisher South DeKalb Parks Naturalist