You may have noticed groups or individuals cutting bushes or pulling plants in the greenbelt. They are working to remove invasive species, primarily honeysuckle and garlic mustard. Invasive species are plants that are introduced to an area outside of their original range and because they have no natural enemies, cause harm to their new home. Honeysuckle is a problem because it replaces native forest shrubs, shades out herbaceous ground cover and depletes soil moisture.

Garlic mustard is a concern because of its ability to aggressively invade a woodland community and displace native grasses, herbs and tree seedlings.

So next time you see someone out in the woods pulling invasives, shout out some encouragement or better yet, join them!