The Birdsong Wetlands, a one-acre area next to the Larchmont Branch Library on Hampton Boulevard, just got cleaner.

The Biology Graduate Student Organization (BGSO) recently adopted the site through the Adopt-a-Spot program.

"We were looking for an activity related to our careers or expertise that would have a community-related volunteer effort," explained LeRoy Rodgers, a graduate student specializing in plant ecology.

As part of the Adopt-a-Spot program, participating organizations must conduct at least four litter clean-ups per year, record the amount of litter collected and properly dispose of it. "We collected approximately 70 pounds of garbage Feb. 13, the first clean-up day," said Rodgers.

Both Rodgers and BGSO president John Dilustro say BGSO plans to do more than the required minimum number of cleanings in order to maintain the beauty of the wetland area.

In 1997, the Elizabeth River Project and the City of Norfolk dedicated the wetlands in memory of Ray S. Birdsong, a professor of biological sciences at Old Dominion who was involved during the initial study phase of the area. Birdsong died Jan. 1, 1995.

The Birdsong Wetlands was created as a model project to demonstrate how to restore wetlands, reduce erosion and abate runoff pollution while creating a more beautiful shoreline for residents of the Elizabeth River watershed.

"The overall project was very successful and almost complete. (The area) just needs maintenance to replace the upland plants that have died," said Melissa Pease, wildlife habitat project manager for the Elizabeth River Project.

According to Rodgers, BGSO's adoption of the Birdsong site is a collaborative project that "puts a professional spin on the organization" because it combines the talent, training and knowledge of the students in the group.

"Since the site has aquatic and terrestrial components that need to be maintained, we can offer suggestions of plants and offer insight based on our individual experiences," he said.

In observance of Earth Day, BGSO has made plans with the Elizabeth River Project to plant new trees, shrubs and flowers at the site on April 24. Live oaks, hollies, loblolly pine and winterberry shrubs are a few of the chosen plants the students hope will contribute to the success of the Birdsong Wetlands.