Get the boots, gloves and shovels ready for the return of Revelstoke's competitive invasive species cleanup, where the fastest weed pullers win.
Speed Weed, hosted by the Columbia Shuswap Invasive Species Society (CSISS), will unite environmentally passionate folks from the community Thursday, July 10, in a high-energy competition to clear the most Himalayan balsam.
Invasive and non-native to North America, this herbaceous plant was introduced to the continent 200 years ago and has become one culprit of weed-ridden ecosystems that community members can help remove next week from Revelstoke's Illecillewaet Greenbelt.
"This fast-growing invasive species spreads rapidly along riverbanks and trails, crowding out native plants and disrupting local ecosystems," CSISS said in a release. "Pulling it before it seeds is an effective and accessible way for the community to take action."
The event, which Wildsight Revelstoke and the Revelstoke Food Commons are also collaborating on with CCSIS, will award participants bearing the biggest Himalayan hauls with gift cards, garden supplies and more.
鈥淭he Speed Weed is all about community, stewardship, and fun,鈥� Jess Booth, communications and engagement manager for CSISS, said in the release. 鈥淚t鈥檚 a great way to make a tangible impact on the environment while celebrating local trails and encouraging people to connect with the land.鈥�
The event runs from 5 to 6 p.m. Thursday at Kovach Park, starting with a briefing by CSISS before the competition begins. Gloves, weed bags and refreshments will be provided.
All ages are welcome and no prior weed-pulling experience is necessary. Anyone who wishes to participate is asked to complete .
