Sandy Springs Eco-Stewardship Program

The City is excited to announce the 3rd session of the Sandy Springs Eco-Stewards program—an immersive, hands-on environmental education and stewardship course running from April 25 to December 18, 2026 . Led by master naturalist Kathryn Kolb of EcoAddendum, the program empowers participants to actively restore and protect local ecosystems while gaining valuable skills in urban forest management.

Throughout the course, participants will engage in field-based learning focused on native plant identification, invasive species removal, forest restoration, and ecological management. Educational sessions will be held at the Blue Pearl Veterinary Hospital Greenspace and the future site of Old Riverside Park, two unique spaces that showcase active restoration efforts.

Volunteer fieldwork will take place at key natural sites throughout Sandy Springs, including Morgan Falls Overlook Park, John Ripley Forbes Big Trees Forest Preserve, Lost Corner Forest Preserve, and Ridgeview Park. These varied landscapes offer meaningful opportunities to apply ecological principles and contribute directly to forest health.
Upon completion, participants are expected and encouraged to take a leadership role, helping to organize and guide future volunteer events across the city. As Eco-Stewards, graduates become advocates and caretakers of our urban forest, playing an essential role in its long-term stewardship.

The program is open to adults and older teens, with a full-course commitment required. Space is limited—register early to reserve your spot and become part of a growing network of local environmental leaders.

The Environmental Stewardship Program is possible through a partnership with Eco-Addendum’s Stewardship Trainings, which delivers hands-on educational experiences in Sandy Spring’s urban forest.

For more information, email Willie Park, Urban Forest Coordinator

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Inside the Eco-Steward Experience

Watch eco-steward Dajawn Williams in action 

Watch eco-stewards Jackson and Jim Newberry and Kathryn Kolb in action