Volunteer to Remove Honeysuckle in Florissant on National Public Lands Day!

About the Event

Volunteers are needed to remove invasive bush honeysuckle from the Hall’s Ferry unit of the Big Muddy National Fish & Wildlife Refuge. This area has significant ecological and historical value, and you can help conserve and maintain this unit on Saturday, September 27th from 8 am – 12 pm as part of U.S Fish & Wildlife Service’s National Public Lands Day.

Volunteers will be carpooling to the work site, as there is very limited parking along the road by the unit. Please meet at the parking lot just off of New Halls Ferry Road. Note: this lot belongs to the Augustine Institute, which is not affiliated with this project, so do not continue down or park on their main campus.

What to Expect

Volunteers will cut honeysuckle with hand saws or loppers and hand-pull smaller plants. Event hosts and willing volunteers will then apply herbicide to cut stumps to prevent re-growth. All tools, materials, and booklets on identifying invasive honeysuckle versus native species will be provided. A small-scale trash and litter pick-up will also take place.

Volunteers will need to wear weather-appropriate clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty, sturdy boots or closed-toe shoes, a hat, and sunscreen. Volunteers should also bring a reusable water bottle and a snack, insect repellent (if preferred), and sturdy gloves (if you prefer your own, but gloves will also be provided). A water jug for refills, bug spray and sunscreen, and a small handwashing station will be available.

If you are interested in volunteering, please RSVP with Andrew Dreas at [email protected] or 660-537-6842. Updates will be given if inclement weather or cancellation occurs. Information can also be found here: https://www.fws.gov/event/npld-halls-ferry-honeysuckle-removal-project