Invasive species removal success in the Highlands – and there’s more to come!

Torrey and Milen working hard to rid the covenant of Scotch broom. Photo Credit Andrew MacKinnon.

This summer, TLC has embarked upon an invasive species removal project based in the Highlands region. While monitoring the covenants in the Highlands over the last few years, TLC staff couldn’t help but notice the increasing amount of invasive species – mostly Scotch broom and thistle. Rather than simply monitor the covenants to ensure infractions weren’t occurring, TLC decided to be proactive and initiate a restoration project to combat these noxious weeds.

Working with the District of Highlands, and having been advised by the Broom Busters, TLC has developed a plan that will be carried out over the next few years to eliminate Scotch broom from the covenanted regions in the Highlands. The project began by assessing each of the 31 covenants in the Highlands Estates to determine the extent of the broom infestation. Areas with a large native to invasive species ratio were given highest priority as these areas can be saved from further invasion, while areas that were already thick with broom were designated as lowest priority. It may seem counterintuitive but the rationale is to contain the spread of broom, establishing a broom-free perimeter and gradually working inwards on the densest regions. As broom seeds can lie dormant in the soil for up to 80 years, containing the spread is of utmost importance.

After assessing the areas and determining which regions needed our help the most, TLC began pulling seedlings and cutting larger plants. Thankfully, the first day of removal was one of the first days of rain we’ve had this summer, which helped staff and volunteers stay cool! Even though there were just a few staff and volunteers working, the truck was filled to the brim after only two properties, demonstrating just how much broom there is hiding in the woods.

While pulling and cutting is hard work, the crew couldn’t resist a little play – one of the properties visited had a very friendly “guard” dog who accompanied the team for a few hours and even helped chew down some of the broom! Thanks, Max.

After the days work was done, TLC staff member Andrew MacKinnon relaxed on his “broom couch” in the back of the truck. Hey, maybe that’s what we could use broom for – upholstery stuffing! Every plant must have a purpose, perhaps we just missed broom’s true calling.

TLC has additional broom pull dates scheduled for August 14, 18, 25 and 28, so if you’re interested in helping reduce the scourge of broom please give us a call – we’d love to have you join us! Tools and gloves are provided, as are tasty snacks and potential snuggles with friendly pets. Contact Torrey more for details at 250-479-8053 or covenants@conservancy.bc.ca.

If pulling broom isn’t your idea of a good time, you can still help TLC continue to protect important ecosystems sustainably across BC by supporting the monitoring and enforcement of our covenants. Please complete our online donation form to show your support today!