Invasive Weed Pull at Red River GorgeOn Saturday, September 26, the Daniel Boone National Forest will host an “invasive weed pull” in recognition of National Public Lands Day. Volunteers will assist U.S. Forest Service personnel in the removal of several non-native plant species that are invading the Red River Gorge. The public is encouraged to help with this important project.
“This project is important because non-native invasive plants can displace native plants and alter the habitat of animal species,” said Forest Botanist David Taylor. “We will be pulling, digging and cutting as many invasive plants as possible. We’ll even work in the rain, as long as there are no thunderstorms.”
An introductory training session will be conducted for volunteers in the identification of invasive plant species. The remainder of the day will be spent on the ground conducting hands-on weed control.
All volunteers and agency personnel will meet at the rest area of Exit 33 on the Mountain Parkway in Slade, Ky. at 9:45 a.m. The rest area is at Exit 33 of the Mountain Parkway. Coming from Lexington, turn right at the bottom of the ramp. The rest area is to the right.
Volunteers should bring gloves, food and water for the day. Other tools and protective gear will be provided for use on a first-come, first-served basis. Long pants and closed-toe shoes are recommended.
Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer should contact the Supervisor’s Office of the Daniel Boone National Forest
Contact: David Taylor dtaylor@fs.fed.us
Agency: USDA Forest Service
Phone: 859-745-3100
On the Web:
www.fs.fed.us/r8/boone/index.shtmlLocation: US Forest Service | Stanton, Kentucky 40380
http://www.fs.fed.us/r8/boone/newsroom/2009_09_14npld.shtml