Restore the Forest - Invasive Plant Removal

The forests of Shelby Park and Bottoms provide habitats for countless species of creatures and bring peace and joy to the humans who spend time beneath their shady canopy. Spend time in these forests with us, removing invasive plant species as part of our effort to restore our forest ecosystems for the benefit of the environment and the community.

What is the community impact of this event?

First, we must understand what an invasive species is: an invasive species is introduced to habitats where it is not native and harms the environment, human health, or economy. In Shelby Park and Bottoms, a few species in particular have spread and pose a serious threat to the health of the park’s ecosystems (and natural beauty).

Invasive species reduce biodiversity and ecosystem resilience. In addition, they make our forests much less beautiful. By removing invasive plants, we open up the forest and provide an opportunity for native species to move back into the space. In the long term, this will ensure that our forests can continue to host a wide variety of mature trees, native shrubs, and the animals that benefit from healthy native Middle Tennessee forest.

What will volunteers be doing at this event?

At this event, we will be uprooting and cutting down large honeysuckle and privet plants with weed wrenches, loppers, and hand saws. 

Accessibility:
This event will include while carrying heavy tools over uneven ground. We will begin on primitive trails but quickly venture off-trail to begin removal. Dress according to the weather.

Porta-potties are located a short walk from our worksite. Depending on the time, there are also restrooms in the Community Center, although I cannot promise it will be open while we are working. 

What to bring?
I would recommend bringing your own water bottle and sunscreen. Water, gloves, and all needed tools will be provided.

Because we will walking through the woods, please wear pants, a long-sleeved shirt, and close-toed shoes. I know this isn’t the most comfortable attire in warm weather, but we want to avoid poison ivy!

What’s next?
If you sign up for this event, you will receive a reminder email a few days before the event with specific instructions regarding parking and any other necessary information.

Any questions? Feel free to send me an email at cayty@friendsofshelby.org.  We hope to see you out there!  

Founded in 2008, Friends of Shelby is a private, nonprofit organization working to preserve, enhance, and promote Shelby Park and Bottoms for everyone to appreciate and protect. We work to protect the natural and historical integrity of the area by supporting appropriate recreational activities, maintaining and enhancing its features, promoting programs that inspire appreciation and conservation of the Park and Bottoms, and advocating for a level playing field for the various user groups.