Volunteers remove invasive species at Squamish's Rose Park

The Sea to Sky Invasive Species Council and Squamish River Watershed Society put on an Earth Day event that had attendees remove some invasive species.

From 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on April 22, a group of about 10 people attended and volunteered at the event in Rose Park near the Squamish Adventure Centre. The group learned about local, non-invasive plants as well as how to spot invasive species.

Some of the identified non-invasive species were the broadleaf plantain, salmonberry, thimbleberry and skunk cabbage. One of the leaders at the event, Tiffany Brunke, said this time of year bears will eat the skunk cabbage to help get their digestive system going again after hibernation.

Some of the non-invasive species identified included holly and ivy.

After identification skills were sharpened in the group, the crew removed some of the invasive species throughout the park with the help of the lead organizations using shovels, a pickaxe and large shears.

For more information, please visit Sea to Sky Invasive Species Council website at SSISC.ca.