PHILADELPHIA - The Swarthmore College softball team volunteered with the Friends of Morris Park on Saturday, September 13. Equipped with shovels, gloves and mud boots, the team set out to clear invasive species in areas of the 147-acre Morris Park located west of the Schuylkill River. 

Founded in 2004, Friends of Morris Park (FMP), has worked with other conservation groups, schools, civic groups and government agencies to revitalize the 147-acre Morris Park woodland according to the standards of  the  Fairmount Park Master Plan and the Darby-Cobbs Watershed Partnership Action Plan. 

Swarthmore assisted by digging out the roots of an invasive bush, pulling up vines, and cutting down a few non-native trees. Additionally, members of the team helped put up some structures (using the wood from the trees we cut down) to prevent the erosion of the bank of the park's stream. While it was just a few hours, the team's effort significantly impacted the long term goal of the organization, which is to create a more sustainable ecosystem.               

Sophomore Jackie Pezzato enjoyed the activity and a chance to build team chemistry, "Our many hands were able to do a lot of good work, while giving us an opportunity to bond as a team at the same time."

Throughout the academic year many Swarthmore athletic teams take part in community service projects, for more information, click here. 

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