14 May Help Us Fight Invasive Species in the Park!

The Crandall Park Beautification Committee and the Warren County Soil and Water Conservation District are teaming up to fight invasive plant species that threaten the woodland areas of Crandall Park, and they’re seeking volunteers to join them in the battle.

Elizabeth Hogan, President of the Beautification Committee, says staff from the Soil and Water Conservation District will work with volunteers from both the committee and the wider community during Invasive Species Week, June 3 – June 7, to physically remove both bittersweet vines and burning bush plants from the woods.  The two plants have been identified as serious threats to the health of the wooded areas, Hogan said.

Burning bush proliferates easily, as it is not eaten by native wildlife, and the shade it casts prevents new trees from growing.  Bittersweet is an aggressive vine that climbs and chokes existing trees.

“When the folks from the Soil and Water District did a walkthrough with us, they said that if we don’t address this problem now, in 100 years there may be nothing but a few oak trees and the invasive species left in the wooded areas of the park, ” she said.

Volunteers interested in helping  to physically remove the burning bush plants from the ground and/or cut the bittersweet vines from the trees, can sign up for two-hour shifts here. 

“Crandall Park is more than just a park,” says Jim Lieberum, Manager of the Conservation District.  “ It is a focal point for the city where all residents are able to come and visit for recreation, time with family and friends, sports, and relaxation.  Crandall Park gives so much to us, why not give back to the park?”

Hogan said volunteers are encouraged to bring gloves and their own loppers and/or shovels if possible, but, if not, tools will be available for use. The Soil and Water representatives will help volunteers identify the two species, both of which are easily recognizable.