HARPERS FERRY, WV - Some NBC25 employees weren't only at a historic park for its natural and historic beauty.

As part of the NBC25 Green Initiative, employees teamed up with students at Harpers Ferry Middle School and North Hagerstown High School to make the Harpers Ferry National Historical Park look cleaner... and greener.

"Today, we picked up trash," said Assunta Wight, a teacher at Harpers Ferry Middle School.  "Half the group went one way and half the group went the other way.  We picked up a whole lot of stuff.  The bags were really heavy."

"It helps preserve the trees and stuff, and global warming, it helps decrease some of it," said Kaitlyn Simmons, a student at Harpers Ferry Middle School.

Her classmate Allison Raines added, "I think it's good to help the environment because I like seeing it this way.  It's kind of peaceful being around it."

The National Park Service estimates each volunteer hour is worth $18 to $19, which is about half a million dollars that would otherwise go to pay employees.

It's work that is also valuable as a lesson to students, both when it comes to Mother Nature's fragile balance and helping kids stay fit.

"It's important to get the kids to keep them moving," Wight added.  "Also important, park rangers always tell us this is our land.  I would like for my grandchildren and their children to be able to come here."

The National Park Service said it could always use more help.  To find volunteer opportunities, click here.