FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 20, 2026

CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA – The Charlottesville Parks & Recreation Department will conduct invasive plant control and containment projects on several City-owned properties and parks this winter. The purpose of these treatments is to reduce impacts from invasive vegetation, increase existing urban tree canopy, and restore native groundcovers and native trees.

Beginning January 27 and concluding by February 17, 2026 (weather permitting), contracted environmental crews will begin work on multiple City-owned properties to control invasive vegetation and restore native habitats. These crews will perform targeted herbicide applications and forestry mulching operations targeting invasive vegetation (primarily invasive vines, paradise trees, autumn olive, and bush honeysuckle). Signage and caution tape will be visible in all treatment areas.

The following parks/trails will be subject to restoration activities: Riverview Park, Butterfly Greenway, and Meadow Creek Gardens disc golf course.

Signage will be placed to alert and inform pedestrians about land management activities. Members of the public are asked to stay clear of any work zones and to be aware of temporary trail closures. If caution tape and signage is posted at trail entrances, the trail is closed to through all (pedestrian/bicycles) traffic. Please respect trail closures.

Any questions can be directed to Steve Gaines, Urban Forester, at 434-970-3587 or gainess@charlottesville.gov.

Media Contact:
Steve Gaines
Urban Forester
Charlottesville Parks and Recreation
434-989-9110 
gainess@charlottesville.gov