Christine Nardecchia and Fred Hahn: Invasive Species - April 13 speaker
Posted by Michael Blackwell
on Apr 21, 2012
"Non-native invasive species such as the Japanese honeysuckle can look pretty," said Fred Hahn, City of Dublin director of parks. "They are, however, destructive in many ways. They crowd out native species and often create a monoculture where nothing else grows. Nothing keeps them in check, so they spread quickly and create environments less able to support a variety of wildlife. If a blight comes along that does kill the invader, then the monoculture is very susceptible. Park areas can be left barren. Unfortunately, spreading of non-natives is all too easy, often because they grow out of yards where people have planted them for their looks."
"While fighting these invaders isn't easy," added City of Dublin Volunteer Administrator Christine Nardecchia," we are taking steps and you can help us. We schedule days when volunteers help eradicate the non-natives. You pull them out or cut them down, and City crews follow to clean them up and help start native species growing again, creating a diverse environment that can support a wide variety of native wildlife and that is beautiful throughout the growing seasons of the year.
We are having one such day on April 21st, but more will be available in May. You can also apply to help the City's Green Team on an ongoing basis. It's good exercise, it's fun, and it helps Dublin stay Green."
For more details, please go to volunteer services . You can also help by eradicating Japanese honeysuckle wherever you might find it on your property!