Following a successful first outing, the Coquitlam chapter of as new environment organization will be in the community once again this weekend.
And they're set to remove more shrubs of an invasive plant species that pops in extreme heat and can be toxic to local wildlife.
Broombusters are being called on for the second time in one month to help rid of scotch broom — a weed imported in 1850 to Vancouver Island, has since spread to the Tri-Cities, and can produce 18,000 seeds to stay in soil for up to 40 years.
According to the organization's website, it not only spreads rapidly and densely in open, sunny areas, it’s also highly flammable and crowds out native plants.
And, if you have hay fever, scotch broom flares up spring allergies when it blooms.
Broombusters is also hoping the public can lend a helping hand in tackling the invasive plant on Friday, Saturday and Sunday (May 20-22).
"I was seeing more of this plant everywhere I went," explains Broombusters Coquitlam founder Robbin Whachell in an earlier interview with the Tri-City News, noting she learned of scotch broom while walking the Crunch when its pods made a sudden popping sound during last year's heat dome.
"I’m happy to be helping with this problem and to be bringing awareness to the invasive. It's great to have people come out who want to do the same. There's a feeling of accomplishment to clear an area! It will make a big difference."
Broombusters' inaugural Coquitlam removal took place on April 22 in Glen Park.
This weekend, the group will be in three neighbourhoods:
- Coquitlam Crunch
- May 20 = 9 to 11 a.m.
- Park on Lansdowne or in the lot below (meet at the base of the stairs)
- City centre
- May 21 = 9 to 11 a.m.
- Corner of Pinetree Way and Town Centre Boulevard
- This clean-up is in partnership with the Hoy/Scott Watershed Society
- Mundy Park
- May 22 = 9 to 11 a.m.
- Meet at the north side of Chilko Parking lot
For more information, you're encouraged to visit the Coquitlam chapter page on Broombusters' website.
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