Help Needed To Pull Invasive Garlic Mustard Seed

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Help is needed to pull out garlic mustard seed at Camp Cedarwin Scout Camp this Sunday.

Garlic mustard is an invasive plant species that, despite its pleasant garlicky smell, is devastating for native species according to the Essex Region Conservation Authority. Garlic mustard is the “purple loosestrife” of woodlands and fencerows, outcompeting native wildflowers that also flower in the spring by stealing light, moisture, nutrients, soil and space. Wildlife and insects that depend on these early plants for food soon disappear. ERCA says garlic mustard has been found to excrete a toxin into the soil that negatively impacts mature trees in forests.

These invasive species have no natural predators and reproduce extremely quickly, and not only pose threats to other plants and animals within an ecosystem, but they can also cause social and economic problems as well.

The Friends of Cedar, Mill, and Wigle Creeks, in partnership with the Essex Region Conservation Authority are inviting the community to participate in their annual spring Garlic Mustard Pull at Camp Cedarwin Scout Camp on Sunday, May 15th, from 1pm to 4pm rain or shine.

Enter the camp from the Sawmill entrance, off of County Road 20, just west of County road 23/Arner Townline. High school students are able to receive community service hours. Refreshments will be available for all volunteers. Boots, long sleeves and long pants are recommended.

For more information you can call Paul Bourque from the Friends of Cedar, Mill, and Wigle Creeks at 519-965-1733.