Sixteen NHS members volunteered to cut down honeysuckle bushes at Monticello Springs Park on Saturday, March 28.

Honey suckle bushes are an invasive species that grow at a rapid pace, taking up space for nutritious berries and apples that wildlife can eat. City volunteer coordinator Elizabeth Griffith said cutting down the bushes not only helps the environment, but also the volunteers.

“We have really nice parks in Shawnee and we want to keep them that way,” Griffith said. “It is a unique opportunity as far as volunteering goes. Hopefully it’s a good educational experience.”

Senior Maridee Weber said although it was cold, she was still looking forward to volunteering outside for a change.

“I’m expecting it to be cold … I’m looking forward to doing community service outside though because we are usually inside,” Weber said. “I think it will be a different and unique experience.”

Senior Drew Nelson said he also did not let the cold stop him from enjoying his volunteer work.

“It wasn’t too challenging; it was mostly just fun to help out the community,” Nelson said.

Griffith said she appreciates the volunteers and she encourages more members to join when they cut down honeysuckles again.

“It just goes to show how wonderful people are that they’ll come out on a chilly and breezy morning to volunteer their time,” Griffith said. “We’re holding this opportunity again on Saturday, May 9 and I’m excited to hopefully see more faces.”