What is Weed Warrior?

Weed Warrior is a program run by the Green Team that works with volunteers to remove the invasive English Ivy vine from our local forests. The program began in July 2013 and meets in the spring and fall months on Saturdays. It is a great way for students to earn SSL hours!

What is English Ivy?

Everyone has likely seen English Ivy growing on trees in their yards, along neighborhood streets, and in local parks as it is a common but non-native and invasive species. It spreads quickly and is very destructive to native ecosystems. It can smother trees at their base and when it reaches into the tree's canopy, the added weight can topple the tree in a storm. Removing this invasive species is critical to maintaining the health of our local forests. 

Program Information

This program is open to experts and those with no knowledge or experience in removing this invasive species. A tutorial is given at the beginning of each workday and all supplies are provided. A short overview of the process is as follows: the ivy is cut at eye-level and foot level, carefully pulled from the tree, and ground cover is removed about two feet from the base of the tree (this requires a bit of elbow grease and loppers and pruners will be used). Cut vines are disposed of in the trash and not composted. 

Volunteer restrictions are as follows: 

• Children under 14 years of age must be under the direct supervision of a parent/guardian at all times.  This means the parent must participate in the Weed Warrior Workday with the child.
• No volunteers under age 16 can use large hand tools; they may use gloves and bags and work on the ground cover. 
• Volunteers must wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, closed-toed shoes, and keep ankles covered. 
• Appropriate waivers must be brought with the participant or signed on-site.
• No more than 30 volunteers per workday are permitted.  

How can I sign up?

Please contact the Sustainability Planner to register for any of the following workdays for Spring 2023. Registration is required and capacity is limited to 30 participants per workday. 

• March 11 at Whitemarsh Park from 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
• April 8 at Whitemarsh Park from 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
• May 20 at Belair Meadows from 8:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
• June 17 at Belair Meadows from 8:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

Other Information

In a forest setting, there is the potential for ticks, stinging insects, and poison ivy. If you are allergic to bees or wasps and have an EpiPen, be sure to have it with you when you come.