Volunteers Needed To Pull Invasive 'Garlic Mustard' At Metroparks
FLAT ROCK (WWJ) - Huron-Clinton Metroparks are calling for volunteers to help remove an invasive plant species at nine Metroparks this spring.
Ever hear of "garlic mustard?" Scientifically known as Alliaria petiolata, garlic mustard is a cool season herb triangular to heart-shaped, coarsely toothed leaves that give off an odor of garlic when crushed.
Garlic mustard poses a severe threat to native plants and animals in forest communities. Once introduced to an area, garlic mustard outcompetes native plants by aggressively monopolizing light, moisture, nutrients, soil and space. Wildlife species that depend on these early plants for their foliage, pollen, nectar, fruits, seeds and roots are deprived of these essential food sources when garlic mustard replaces them.
Volunteers will learn how to identify and remove garlic mustard, while helping protect and restore natural areas within the Metroparks.
Tools, water and snacks will be provided, but be sure to come prepared with weather-appropriate clothing, sunscreen, bug repellant and closed-toe shoes. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
For more information or to register for workdays, contact Allison Esper at allison.esper@metroparks.com or 810-227-2757 ext.6086.
You can join the cadre of volunteers at these parks:
- Oakwoods Metropark, near Flat Rock
April 10, 3 pm – 6 pm
Meet at the Nature Center
- Dexter-Huron Metropark, near Dexter
April 21, 10 am – 1 pm
Meet at the East parking lot
- Kensington Metropark, near Milford Brighton
April 28, 10 am – 1 pm
Meet at the North Hickory Ridge parking lot
- Hudson Mills Metropark, near Dexter
April 29, 1 pm – 4 pm
Meet at the Rapids View parking lot
- Stony Creek Metropark, near Rochester/Washington Township
May 5, 10 am – 1 pm
Meet at the Nature Center
- Oakwoods Metropark, near Flat Rock
May 8, 3 pm – 6 pm
Meet at the Nature Center
- Hudson Mills Metropark, near Dexter
May 12, 10 am – 1 pm
Meet at the Rapids View parking lot
- Hudson Mills Metropark, near Dexter
May 20, 1 pm – 4 pm
Meet at the Pineview parking lot
- Kensington Metropark, near Milford/Brighton
June 9, 10 am – 1 pm
Meet at the Nature Center
- Oakwoods Metropark, near Flat Rock
June 12, 3 pm – 6 pm
Meet at the Nature Center
For more information, visit www.metroparks.com.
