Four experts to show how to get rid of invasive plants

Jamey Gerlaugh, Contributor

Sustainable Charlotte, the Charlotte Conservation Committee and the Charlotte Library are hosting a workshop on invasive plants at the next Green Drinks gathering on Tuesday, July 9, 5:30-7 p.m. (rain date July 10) near the pollinator gardens at the corner of Roscoe and Lewis Creek roads in Charlotte. Four experts will help with identifying, understanding and managing these plants. Various tools and techniques used in removal work will be demonstrated and all can try their hand on removing onsite plants. Speakers will include:

Ann Johnston Miller and Jaime Schulte of the Monkton Conservation Commission tackle buckthorn in the woods behind Monkton Central School.
Ann Johnston Miller and Jaime Schulte of the Monkton Conservation Commission tackle buckthorn in the woods behind Monkton Central School.

• Julie Parker Dickerson, master gardener and creator of the many Pollinator Pathway gardens in East Charlotte (pollinator-pathway.org/towns/charlotte) will talk about why invasives are concerning and what to plant in their place.

• Andrea Morgante, conservationist and professional landscaper, will share her professional experience helping landowners deal with invasives through a variety of methods.

• Debra Sprage, Monkton Conservation Commissioner, will talk about volunteers clearing Monkton public lands of invasives.

• Mark Dillenbeck, Charlotte’s former tree warden, will talk about his experiences in dealing with invasives on his land.

One goal of the workshop will be to explore the creation of a system for volunteers to work together on tackling invasives on each other’s properties.

There will be appetizers and non-alcoholic beverages. Bring a folding chair, work gloves and bug repellant.