On October 29th, the Terra Cotta Community Centre was pleased to host an informative and engaging Invasive Species Talk led by Lee Meril from Credit Valley Conservation (CVC). We are incredibly grateful to Lee for sharing his deep knowledge and passion for environmental stewardship, and for helping our community better understand the impact invasive plants—especially Common Buckthorn—have on our forests, trails, and backyards.

Lee walked us through how buckthorn spreads aggressively, outcompetes native plants, and reduces biodiversity. He also offered practical, manageable strategies for residents looking to tackle this invasive shrub on their own properties. Here are a few of the tips discussed:

Tips for Managing Buckthorn

• Remove small seedlings by hand. Buckthorn pulls easily when young—just ensure the entire root system comes out.

• Cut larger shrubs at the base. Mature buckthorn can be cut close to ground level. To prevent resprouting, the stump must be covered or treated appropriately.

• Use a “cut-stump and cover” method. After cutting, securely cover the stump with dark plastic or a boot mat to block sunlight. This starves the plant and prevents regrowth.

• Dispose of berries carefully. Buckthorn berries spread quickly if composted. Seal them in bags and place them in yard waste according to municipal guidelines.

• Replant with native species. After removal, consider adding native shrubs or trees to restore habitat and prevent buckthorn from returning.

  

  Buckthorn with berries

These are just a few of the approaches highlighted during the presentation, and CVC offers even more resources for homeowners looking to identify and manage invasive species.

If you’re concerned about buckthorn—or any other invasive plants—on your property, we strongly encourage you to reach out to Credit Valley Conservation. Their team is knowledgeable, supportive, and ready to help residents protect both private land and the broader watershed.

Thank you again to everyone who attended, and to Lee Meril for inspiring us to take meaningful steps toward preserving the natural beauty and ecological health of our community.