Volunteers clear invasive plants in Fairview Woods; work group pursues grants and replanting

Volunteers and committee members reported initial cleanup work in Fairview Woods and outlined follow-up steps including replanting native species and pursuing grants. Members said seven volunteers cleared invasive blackberry and ivy near the southwest corner and along the main trailhead, and residents who have seen the work gave positive feedback.

Organizers described a multi-step approach: manual cutting and removal of invasive plants, mechanical clearing for thicker patches, and replanting with native species. "We've been getting great feedback from the residents that are coming out and kinda noticing the differences," a work-group member said.

Grant and volunteer support: A potential federal grant for East County projects could provide up to $20,000; the work group said it is drafting an application due April 15. Organizers also reported that an outside partner can potentially provide up to 90 volunteers for a planting day, and that volunteer hours may be counted as in-kind match at roughly $31 per hour per person (figure described in meeting as an approximate grant-match valuation).

Next steps: the group plans to coordinate mechanical clearing for tougher patches, replant native plants in cleared areas, draft the April 15 grant application and confirm volunteer dates. Organizers said they will continue outreach to residents and partner organizations to expand participation.