Frequently Asked Questions

Invasive plant species in North Saanich parks are decreasing biodiversity, suffocating native species, and negatively affecting the ecosystem and its soils. Because native plants have been part of their environment for so long, they are interconnected with fungal networks, soil health, and wildlife in a way that introduced species are not. Ninety percent of insects only eat the leaves of plants with which they co-evolved.

Native plants lead to better pollination, increased genetic variety, and resilience in local ecosystems.

Believe it or not, we often hear from volunteers how rewarding it is to remove the roots of a holly bush, or to pull out a ten metre ivy vine.

We often work in teams that chat while they work and exhibit great camaraderie. And our lunch breaks are a perfect time to recount successes in the woods and enjoy much deserved nourishment.

It takes persistence and tenacity, but it can and has been done. For most parks it will take several years of numerous removal events to eradicate invasive species.

We have been successful in moving parks from a sorry state, to where we’re monitoring, and returning to the park to remove only a few invasives that pop up.

No. We’re not talking about rocket science here. Group leaders and volunteers will show you what invasive species to remove, how to remove them, and how to protect native species.

We also provide the right tools to use. An interest in the environment is a plus.