Invasive Vine Removal at River Farm

Invasive plant species – plants that are non-native to the area and spread rapidly – can often cause environmental harm because they negatively disrupt the ecosystem. Invasives compete directly with native plants for water, sun, nutrients and space, crowding out or even killing native plants that are a food source for wildlife. They change nature’s balance on which all species depend.

Invasives are a common problem and require on-going planned removal management. River Farm is working with Laura Hassell, executive director of the White House Farm Foundation, to remove and control the invasives and restore the native habitat. She has identified English Ivy, Japanese Honeysuckle, and Asiatic Bittersweet, among others, that have swarmed the River Farm property.

The first phase of the removal process cleared out large areas of invasives by machine

In our next phase, on Saturday, March 18, from 9am – 12pm, we’ll be removing invasives by hand and need your help. We are looking for volunteers – adults, teenagers, scouts, naturalists, nature enthusiasts – to help in the removal process. Meet others who are community-driven and passionate about our environment and River Farm!

You DO NOT need to have horticultural experience.

You DO NOT need tools. AHS will provide them.

You DO NEED to wear sturdy shoes, gloves, long pants and long sleeves.

You DO NEED to sign-up to volunteer on March 18 by emailing volunteer@ahsgardening.org.