FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 18, 2023
Invasive Plant Control Projects at Several City Parks
CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA – The Charlottesville Parks and Recreation will begin invasive plant control at several City parks to help reduce overgrowth of unwanted trees, vines, and shrubs.
Beginning the week of September 25th, crews from the environmental contracting company RX Fire will work at Forest Hills Park, Azalea Park, and Jordan Park. A large machine called a forestry mulcher will be utilized to remove undergrowth and clear the unwanted plants and vines. This work will leave the areas temporarily barren of vegetation, but they will be replanted with trees and managed for long term growth. Crews are scheduled to be on site until October 10th. Citizens are asked to stay clear of any work zones and safety barriers, and to be aware of temporary trail closures.
Through a process of containment, removal, restoration, and ongoing management, outside contractors and City Parks and Recreation staff will restore natural areas by removing non-native shrubs, vines, and trees, and re-plant with native species. As the City’s green spaces become fragmented through land development, the remaining undeveloped areas become more and more valuable for natural resource benefits such as tree canopy coverage, recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and mitigating damaging effects of climate change.
For any questions, please contact Steve Gaines, Urban Forester, at gainess@charlottesville.gov or (434) 970-3587
Media Contact
Steve Gaines
Urban Forrester
Charlottesville Parks & Recreation
434-970-3587
gainess@charlottesville.gov
