Contact: Joanna Wilson, Public Affairs, 302-739-9902.

DNREC seeks volunteers for Blackbird Reserve Wildlife Area project

SMYRNA (Feb. 22, 2011) – In honor of National Invasive Species Awareness Week, DNREC’s Division of Fish and Wildlife is looking for volunteers to help with an invasive plant removal project at the Blackbird Reserve Wildlife Area in Smyrna from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, March 5.

Non-native vines have invaded a section of the Blackbird Reserve and are clinging to trees and covering native plants and wildlife habitat. The plant species to be removed include Wintercreeper Euonymous, English Ivy and Japanese Wisteria.

Volunteers should plan to meet at the parking lot on Eagles Nest Landing Road, between Gum Bush and Deer Run roads. Gloves and tools (pruners, loppers, hand saws, etc.) will be provided, but volunteers may choose to bring their own.

Due to the nature of the work, this project is recommended for adults and older youth (age 13 and over). Volunteers also are strongly encouraged to pre-register with contact information in case of inclement weather leading to postponement.

For more information or to sign up for these projects, please contact Lynne Staub at 302-735-3600 or email lynne.staub@state.de.us.

For information on other volunteer opportunities with the DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife, visit www.dnrec.delaware.gov/fw/volunteers.

For more information on National Invasive Species Awareness Week, visit www.nisaw.org.

Vol. 41, No. 55