- HikeType Citizen Science
- HikeIcon https://hikes.brucetrail.org/wp-content/uploads/formidable/7/camera.png
- PaceTypes Medium 3- 4 km/hr
- TerrainTypes Moderate: some hills and some poor footing
- PaidOuting No
Registration Required:
Click here to register for this hike (15 spots remaining)
Hosting Club: Niagara, Peninsula
Category: Citizen Science
Location (Google Maps): St Paul Nature Reserve - parking on road side on St Paul Ave, Niagara Falls, just north of the rail road tracks https://maps.app.goo.gl/HGNYkxMKNuiVoSKo7
Hike Leader(s): Margaret Northfield Click here to contact Hike Leader(s)
Pace: Medium 3- 4 km/hr
Terrain: Moderate: some hills and some poor footing
Description
This work party is to continue with our invasive buckthorn removal at St. Paul Nature Reserve. We have done such a good job removing buckthorn in previous years that we may also have time to dig out some invasive Lily-of-the-valley plants. We are hoping to get lots of volunteers out and tackle this area in one work party per year. Volunteers make a difference - come out & join us!
Invasive buckthorn removal methods vary based on how big the buckthorn is. Small plants can be pulled by hand and hung upside down so the roots dry out and die. Medium sized plants are removed with the help of extractigators - special lever-like tools that make pulling much easier (and fun!). Large buckthorn "trees" must be cut with a chainsaw. We will be focusing on removing small and medium shrubs on this day, as sawyers have already removed most of the large trees. Invasive Lily-of-the-valley can be hand-dug using a trowel or shovel, especially in the fall when the soil is soft.
Plan on arriving so we can all walk in together at 10am but it's an easy walk out if anybody wants to leave after a shorter amount of time.
Remember to wear long pants, long sleeves, work gloves, sturdy closed-toed shoes and bring lots of water & snacks/lunch if you are staying for the duration!
Notes for student volunteers:
- Students under 16 MUST be accompanied by a parent/guardian on this hike (please refer to the BTC link https://brucetrail.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/VOL.05.01_Minors_Volunteering_Policy_-_Approved_February_2016.pdf )
- 16 or more but under 18? Bring a waiver signed by a guardian.
- students wishing to receive community service hours (4Hours max) must bring service forms from school.
- Please wear clothes for work - long pants tucked into socks, appropriate footwear (no sandals), long sleeves and work gloves