The Foothills Equestrian Nature Center’s (FENCE) invasive plant workshop, held on Tuesday, Feb. 19, was a success despite the cold, rainy weather.

Kristy Burja, FENCE’s AmeriCorps education assistant, taught visitors about common invasive plant species found at FENCE and in the surrounding area.

John Vining, Polk County Agricultural Extension Agent, led the second half of the workshop with a hike around the FENCE Wildwood Trail. Workshop visitors followed behind him as he pointed out key invasive species and discussed methods of eradication. The Wildwood Trail is a handicapped accessible trail at FENCE and is the focus of a multi-year effort to remove invasive species from its borders.

This invasive plant workshop was held in preparation for an invasive plant removal workday set for March 19 on the Wildwood Trail at FENCE. Volunteers are needed, so please contact FENCE at 828-859-9021 or education@fence.org.  Lunch and refreshments will be provided free of charge for all volunteers. The Kirby Endowment through the Polk County Community Foundation helps make the invasive plant removal project happen.

The Foothills Equestrian Nature Center’s (FENCE) mission is to provide facilities and focus for education, recreation and preservation in nature studies and equestrian activities with the aim of enhancing these endeavors to enrich the quality of life for the community.

For more information on FENCE programs visit our website: www.fence.org.

– article submitted by Tracie Hanson