Aqua Angel Debbie Austin waters Simonton Park.

Volunteers Can Earn Their Water Wings While Helping Charleston’s Parks

Over the last five years, the Charleston Parks Conservancy has planted thousands of flowers, shrubs and bulbs in more than a dozen Charleston city parks. Those plants require regular care and maintenance, including a big drink of water during the warm months of summer and early fall.

For the third year, the Conservancy is launching its Aqua Angels program in which volunteers donate at least five hours of time from May to September watering parks in downtown Charleston, West Ashley and Daniel Island.

Last year Aqua Angels spent about 400 hours watering in the parks. Even though the Conservancy carefully selects native and drought-tolerant plants for the parks, they still need a drink, especially in parks with new plantings that have less established root systems.

Volunteers have flexibility to water at times convenient to their schedules and in parks close to their home or work. No experience is needed. A member of the Conservancy staff will meet with a volunteer to explain proper watering techniques.

“This is the perfect volunteer opportunity for people who have less flexible schedules and need to volunteer at a time that works for them,” said Neves Richards, volunteer director for the Conservancy. “If you can hold a watering hose, you can help us keep Charleston’s parks blooming and beautiful all year long.”

The Conservancy will host an Aqua Angel Kickoff Luncheon from noon to 1 p.m. May 1 in Allan Park, 365 Ashley Ave. in Charleston. Have a picnic in the park and learn more about this volunteer program and how to earn your “water wings” this summer. To RSVP for the luncheon, contact Neves Richards at neves@charlestonparksconservancy.org or call (331) 4PARKS2.