A local environmental group is looking for help to remove invasive species from Paw Paw Woods in Wallaceburg and replace them with native plants.
The Sydenham Field Naturalists (SFN) have moved into the second phase of the Paw Paw Woods Ecological Restoration Project, which includes physically removing invasive plants from the area.
One particular plant the group is looking to get rid of is the multi-flora rose. Multi-flora Rose is an Asian shrub that grows aggressively and chokes out and prevents native plants from growing. In some circumstances, it can grow up to 10 or 15 feet tall. The plant can also be detrimental to native birds, as it threatens their nesting locations.
The removal of these plants is scheduled to happen throughout October.
Volunteers are needed on October 19 and October 26. These sessions start at 10 a.m., with lunch and refreshments provided for all participants.
The next phase, which is scheduled for October-November and will also require volunteers, will include replanting native trees and shrubs. This step is vital for supporting local wildlife and helping re-establish animal habitats.
In the final stage, which is slated for spring 2025, the trails in Paw Paw Woods will be repaired to improve access for visitors.
SFN has partnered with the Invasive Species Centre, which is funding the removal of invasive plants, and Enbridge, whose employee program is funding the native plantings.
To volunteer for the project you can fill out a registration form here.