Local Parks Support Wrangle of Invasive Plants

Various local state parks will host the annual Weed Wrangle Saturday.

TDEC Deputy Communications Director Kim Schofinski said the wrangle allows volunteers to fight invasive species in public parks.

“These plant species can diminish beautiful viewsheds. They can encroach on territory for native plants that are important to our wildlife,” Schofinski said. “And they overall diminish the value of our parks and public land. “1

Schofinski said many of the target plant species thrive in the Upper Cumberland.

“Privet is a common one. Kudzu, something most people in Tennessee are familiar with, is an invasive plant species,” Schofinski said. “So those are the two main species that in most of our parks that volunteers will be helping pull out of the earth tomorrow.” 2

Schofinski said state and community experts will supervise the removal of the plants.

“We are encouraging volunteers to just show up tomorrow at a park of their choice,” Schofinski said. “Assuming that there is not just a mad rush of people tomorrow, there should be plenty of space, plenty of tools for everyone. We welcome everyone to come out” 3

Scofinski said the parks will provide tools for the plant removal process.

“We are asking folks to wear appropriate outdoor work clothing, proper shoes-closed toed boots if possible. And bring gloves if they have them,” Schofinski said. “Our parks will have gloves on hand to give to volunteers. But if you have any at home, please bring them just in case we run out.” 5

Cumberland Mountain, Cummins Falls, and Edgar Evins State Parks are among other local parks hosting Weed Wrangle.