Volunteers needed for April 10 project at Blackbird Reserve Wildlife Area

SMYRNA (April 6, 2011) – DNREC’s Division of Fish and Wildlife is seeking volunteers to help remove non-native vines that have invaded a section of the Blackbird Reserve Wildlife Area near Smyrna. The volunteer removal effort runs from 1 to 3 p.m. Sunday, April 10.

The invasive vines, including Wintercreeper Euonymous, English ivy and Japanese wisteria, are clinging to trees and covering native plants and wildlife habitat. Volunteers will be using hand tools to remove the vines. Gloves and tools – pruners, loppers, handsaws, etc. – will be provided, but volunteers are welcome to bring their own.

Due to the nature of the work, volunteers under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Volunteers also are strongly encouraged to pre-register with contact information in case of inclement weather leading to postponement. Volunteers will meet at the wildlife area’s parking lot on Eagles Nest Landing Road.

Interested in volunteering or more information? Please contact Lynne Staub, volunteer coordinator with the Division of Fish and Wildlife, at 302-735-3600, or by email at lynne.staub@state.de.us.

To learn more about Fish and Wildlife’s volunteer programs and upcoming projects, visit www.dnrec.delaware.gov/fw/volunteers.

Vol. 41, No. 136