Get some exercise while helping the UC Davis Arboretum

Gardening can be great exercise – especially all that stretching, digging and pulling (although my back would beg to differ).

It’s also a great opportunity to get outdoors, breathe some fresh air and, when in a public garden, perhaps meet like-minded gardeners doing the same.

This month, UC Davis Arboretum and Public Gardens offers the public two more chances to help its gardens (and the whole campus) look their best.

The Arboretum needs volunteers for two Saturday mornings – Feb. 7 and 14. On Saturday, Feb. 7, from 9 to 11 a.m., the community volunteers will tackle gardens near the Feminist Research Institute.

“Volunteer days are a great way to give back, meet other members of the community who enjoy volunteering and gardening, and experience the therapeutic effects of spending time in nature,” say the organizers. “No prior gardening experience is needed to participate, and everyone over the age of 18 is welcome regardless of your affiliation with UC Davis.

“Student leaders from the LED 141 course are holding an extra volunteer day in February to tidy up the landscapes around the Feminist Research Institute,” the organizers add. “Volunteers will help out with weeding as well as pruning of landscape plants.”

Participation is free, but advance registration is recommended. Parking is free on campus Saturday mornings unless where marked. Arboretum staff recommends parking along Orchard Park Drive for this event.

On Saturday, Feb. 14, the Arboretum needs some Valentine’s Day volunteers to tackle projects on West Campus. This crew will work from 9 to 11:30 a.m. and will focus on ornamental landscapes.

Again, this event is free to participate, but sign up in advance.

To register for either event, go to: https://arboretum.ucdavis.edu/apg-events