A few weeks ago, TLC returned to Cunningham Woods at the University of Victoria (UVic) to remove invasive species which are threatening to blanket the woods.
As part of a course, a UVic and Red Fish School of Change student, Tristen, enlisted TLC’s help with organizing a work party to benefit the Woods. Tristen’s course centers on social change and environmental work and required a Community Action project; getting folks together to help the environment by removing invasive species was a natural fit.
The Environmental Restoration Volunteer Network, the Environmental Studies Student Association, the Meditation Club of UVic as well as the Leadership and Sustainability Floors of the campus residences joined TLC volunteers to remove English ivy on a beautiful late October day. Approximately 20 volunteers pulled ivy for four hours, bolstered by hot coffee donated by Tim Hortons and scones donated by COBS Bread.
The morning started with a mindfulness practice lead by the Meditation Club to set the tone for the day; when removing invasive species from areas that still have many native species present great care must be taken not to disturb the soil too much or pull out the wrong plant! Cultivating awareness while getting fresh air certainly helped to de-stress the students. A friendly game of jump-rope also helped – the longest single strand of ivy removed that day served as the rope!
The work is far from over but a serious dent was made that day. TLC is very thankful to be part of the team who care for Cunningham Woods. Thank you again to the volunteers who made it out!
