Join C&O Canal Trust staff in a unique volunteer project focused on removing invasive bamboo from a section of the towpath in Brunswick, Maryland!
Led by our Chesapeake Conservation and Climate Corps (CCCC) intern, Trey Santiago as his capstone project, volunteers will be directed by trained staff and the National Park Service in removing invasive bamboo from the park. Bamboo is extremely prevalent in the park and has a huge impact on the natural ecosystem. Due to the rapid spread of this invasive plant, bamboo prevents the growth of native plants. Because of its strong and impenetrable root system, bamboo make it impossible for other plants to grow and can cause severe damage to historic structures.
This project will be completed in two parts: bamboo removal and re-seeding. If you are unable to attend the bamboo removal, we will still need volunteers to help us re-seed the area with native plants. The re-seeding project is TBD, but check back in with us to learn more about how you can participate!
Please join us in removing bamboo from the park in Brunswick on May 21! Because we will be using special tools to remove bamboo, volunteers must be 16+ to participate.
Date: Wednesday, May 21
Time: 9:30am – 1:00pm
Location: C&O Canal Towpath in Brunswick, MD
Map Link
Registration in advance is required. Additional details will be provided upon registration.
Parking: Please plan on parking at the Brunswick Boat Ramp parking lot or the large lot at the Brunswick Train Station. Follow signs to the meet-up spot where there will be a shuttle to take participants to the removal site.
Restrooms: Closest restrooms are at the Brunswick Boat Ramp. Plan to use the facilities before taking the shuttle to the bamboo removal site.
Accessibility: This program involves standing and the ability to operate saws and other bamboo removal tools.
*A Note on Safety*: Volunteers will be required to wear gloves and high visibility clothing at all times. Volunteers will be working in pairs, where one person will be chopping down bamboo while the other person will be holding bamboo to prevent it from falling on anyone. The wood chipper will handled by staff or trained individuals only.
Please bring:
Outdoor clothing (long-sleeved preferred/No Shorts) that you don’t mind getting dirty
Close-toed, sturdy shoes or boots No flip-flops or sandals, please!
Water and snacks as desired
Weather:
In the event of a schedule change or cancellation due to inclement or extreme weather or conditions, we will contact you via email.
Registration:
Questions? Please direct any inquiries to [email protected].
Bamboo Photos: Trust Staff
Top Photo: Jerry Knight
