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Open Space Committee publicizes invasive-removal events, stresses native-plant education
Summary
The committee highlighted two community invasive-plant removal events — April 19 at the Apple Barn and April 26 at Onion Mountain — and urged more public education on invasive species' ecological impacts.
The Simsbury Open Space Committee on Feb. 5 promoted two upcoming invasive-plant removal events and urged continued public education on invasive species and native planting.
Marjorie, chair of the Open Space Committee, said Century Land Trust will host an invasive-plant program at the Apple Barn on April 19 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.; the committee also plans a burning-bush removal event at Onion Mountain on April 26, with details to be finalized.
Committee speakers emphasized that invasive plants can displace native vegetation and diminish habitat value. One presenter summarized the ecological stakes: "it takes between 6,000 to 10,000 caterpillars to raise 1 nest of baby birds," and nonnative ornamental shrubs and vines do not support those native insect populations, reducing food for birds and other wildlife.
Members noted the town adopted a native-plant policy for plantings on town property and encouraged residents to replace invasive ornamentals in their yards. The committee said it will provide educational materials on the town web page and pointed to a short booklet mailed to property owners that explains how to identify and remove common invasive species.
The committee invited residents and other land-use boards to attend the April events and said it will coordinate posting event details and educational resources on the town and Land Trust web pages.
