Common Ground Series: Preparing the Forest Conservation Area

Reflection Park recently received a grant from the Maryland Urban and Community Forestry Council to plant a dozen native evergreen trees in our southern forest conservation easement area. We invite our community for a collaborative (and we hope satisfying!) afternoon to help prepare the site by removing invasive species.

We will focus on cutting and removing Oriental bittersweet vines and other common invasives in a designated area. Every plant we clear helps protect existing understory trees and makes room for the new ones we are planting next month!

Anyone interested in spending time in nature is welcome; no experience is necessary. Please bring water and wear long sleeves and long pants to protect yourself from scratches and insect bites, and ensure you have sturdy footwear for safely navigating the natural terrain. While we will provide some gloves and tools, we encourage you to bring your own if you have them to ensure everyone is well-equipped.

Reflection Park is registered with the Montgomery County Volunteer Center, allowing us to approve Student Service Learning (SSL) hours. Encourage your teens to take part in this opportunity to learn and serve! Students under 18 are welcome with a parent or guardian.

This is a great opportunity for garden clubs, environmental groups and scouts troops, so please help us spread the word! Come ready to cut, pull, and clear to make space for these new trees – and leave the forest conservation area a little more native than you found it. We hope to see you there!