This Earth Day, volunteers from Coyote Logistics came out on the property to help remove an invasive shrub from the understory of the forest along Lookout Creek. The workday started with a quick session on how to identify the target species, Ligustrum sinense, Chinese privet. After a demonstration of mechanical removal using a weed wrench, volunteers got to work pulling and piling. 

Why is it so important to remove Chinese privet?

Primarily spread by birds, privet invades forest edges and along stream corridors. It eventually makes a monoculture that takes over an area, pushes out native understory plants, and negatively impacts wildlife. 

The removal of this invasive species from the forest improves habitat and hunting opportunities for red-shouldered hawks. This spring, adjacent to the area where the Coyote Volunteers worked, two pairs of hawks have been spotted hunting areas previously cleared of privet! 

Workday success!

In about three hours, the group had an area cleared about 25 yards wide by 30 yards long. And, at the end of the workday, the pile of privet carcasses was nearly five feet high! Plus, while clearing the noxious weed, the group saw several desirable native plants, like Trillium lancifolium.

The privet piles were moved to an area where they will be burned, because privet can resprout into viable plants if the pulled or cut stems are left laying on moist soil. 

Invasive species management is a daunting and ongoing task. We thank the volunteers of Coyote Logistics for spending Earth Day with us and helping to restore habitat for native plants and wildlife. 

Interested in volunteering with us?

Reflection Riding always has a need for volunteers, whether individuals or groups. Please contact Byron Brooks, byron@reflectionriding.org, today to find out more about how your group can help restore habitat for native species. Individual volunteers can sign up online.