Want to learn more about how to reduce the spread of certain quick-growing plants without using chemicals that pose risks to pollinators and to soil health, or just come help prevent the spread of bittersweet on conservation land, make some new friends, and get some exercise?

On Tuesday, June 16, from 9–11 AM, join Chocorua Lake Conservancy for a “Bittersweet Outdoor Volunteer Morning” of camaraderie, exercise, and plant control at Charlotte C. Browne Woods on Washington Hill Road in Chocorua. Our volunteer stewards will be learning how to identify, remove, and control nonnative plants that might otherwise out-compete native trees and shrubs. 

Bittersweet, glossy buckthorn, Japanese barberry, and knotweed are all considered nonnative plants in New England: plants brought to the US as ornamentals that in some environments can grow abundantly, disburse large quantities of fruits or seeds, and often grow from underground root systems. Some of these plants can grow so thick in certain locations that they take over habitats normally available to native shrubs that provide cover and food for wildlife. 

Our work at C.C. Browne will focus on non-native bittersweet. We’ll be cutting vines and the low growth in an attempt to keep the vines from overwhelming the stone wall that runs beside the property. Young leaves are just emerging, which makes identification and finding them easier.

CLC owns Charlotte C. Browne Woods, a beautiful place of diverse habitats open to the public for recreation and contemplation. Working to limit the spread of non-native plants there helps to reduce the chances these species will spread in a way that is detrimental to the many native species found in the woods and fields.

Bring work gloves and your favorite clippers if you have them. We will have some tools available if needed. Wear sturdy close-toed shoes or boots and bring water and a snack, if you like, as well as bug or sun protection as needed. Meet at the parking area of Charlotte C. Browne Woods on Washington Hill Road. Feel free to come for all or some of the morning. Please register in advance above so that we can let you know of any changes to the schedule.

Banner image: Pulling bittersweet in community! | Anna Paddock