Sweeping out Scotch Broom: participants root out invaders
It was time to sweep away the Scotch Broom on campus this spring, and gardeners and Royal Roads community members were keeping a keen eye on the hillside to evict invasive plant species.
Jeff Wright, supervisor of RRU grounds and gardens, gathered with colleagues to help cut back invasive plants growing on campus. The group met at the lower entrance to Charlie’s Trail and set to work on removing non-thorny invasive plants – mainly Scotch broom, which is abundant in the area.
Invasive plants impact native vegetation and wildlife. Removal of them helps the local ecosystem to function as native plants are better able to grow and thrive.
“It was so great to get together with fellow staff to cut broom down by Charlie’s Trail,” says Wright. “It felt really good to have more hands on the effort to bring back the Garry Oak savannah and it’s exciting to think we can do more of this in the future.”
The Climate Action and Sustainability team organized the event along with Human Resources as part of the university’s commitment to climate action and well being. Future sessions will be planned for faculty, staff and students to participate in. All that’s needed are gardening gloves, hand-held clippers and passion for the planet.
Visit Crossroads for Faculty and Staff sign up for the next session on June 7.
Curious if you have invasive plant species in your yard? These resources can help: