Mason Neck State Park hosted a group of college students during their Fall break from Eastern Kentucky University. The group of students drove over 500 miles from Richmond, KY, in a van with a destination and a mission on their mind. To remove invasive species and restore the coastal within communities and engage in volunteer service and experiential learning. 

10 Eastern Kentucky University Students visit Mason Neck State Park

Park Rangers at Mason Neck worked with the 10 EKU students to clear 570 feet of overgrown vegetation (woody stems and invasive trees) on the shoreline behind the Visitors Center. The view of Belmont Bay was blocked from the trail, which impacted the visitor experience. Many bird watchers, hikers and interpretive programs could not fully enjoy the panoramic view of the Bay.  

View maintenance, getting rid of invasive species!

Once students cleared the hillside, they started on another project, resloping and seeding a hillside near the turtle pond. With the heavy rains over the past month, the hill was in need of some repair. 

Students working on resloping and seeding a hillside near the turtle pond

Students had a great time and are looking forward to returning to Mason Neck next year. Of course, not only did the students have an enjoyable experience, but the park enjoys hosting and working with the students. The volunteerism and service to the community is indeed a rewarding experience for all.

Great people doing great things!

We'd like to share a letter to Mason Neck from the EKU leader, Miles Owen:

"...the trip was a great success.  I think people were surprised at the amount of work they were able to accomplish in a two day period.  People also loved the park...and definitely loved the lodging.  Because this trip was a great success, I would like to ask about the potential of reserving spots at Mason Neck for Spring Break next year...we would have about 10 people on the trip.  Hopefully this works out because some of the participants have already expressed interest in coming back for a full week long spring break trip."

The students headed back to Richmond, Kentucky after a weekend of productive and fullfilling accomplishment. According to Owen, “ASB trips are not just a chance to see something new geographically, they provide an opportunity to see someplace new in yourself.”

For more information regarding the "Alternative Spring Break Program" click here. 

For general information about Virginia State Parks volunteer programs, phone (703) 583-5497, FAX 703-583-2514, email vspvolunteer@dcr.virginia.gov or write to: