Clean creek requires volunteers

Heal the Bay needs volunteers for a habitat restoration project at Malibu Creek State Park this weekend.

Dozens will come together for four hours Sat., March 15 as part of the group's revitalized Stream Team program. The team will be planting native species as well as removing invasive plants and manmade debris from various sites in the Malibu Creek watershed.

"Everything that goes on upstream has a direct effect on the quality of our beaches and oceans," said Joyce Sisson, manager of the Stream Team program. "So our event is a really fun way for people to do their part to protect the environment. You get your hands dirty in a beautiful setting, and you make a real difference."

Sisson said the restoration project provides improved stream habitat, prevents erosion and better filtrates urban runoff, and will directly improve water quality at nearby Malibu Lagoon State Park and Surfrider Beach.

No previous restoration experience is required to volunteer. Tools, refreshments and ecological education will be provided during the program, which organizers called "mildly strenuous."

Participants must be at least 14 years old, and everyone will be required to sign liability waivers.

Volunteers can RSVP to Heal the Bay at (800) HEAL BAY (4325229), ext. 130, or show up at 9 a.m. at the lower parking lot of Malibu Creek State Park with sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat and a reusable water bottle

For more information, call Joyce Sisson at (310) 451-1500, ext. 130, or visit the website www.healthebay.com.

- Joann Groff