Georgetown Invasive Species Removal Event
The C&O Canal National Historical Park follows the Potomac River for 184.5 miles between Georgetown and Cumberland and is one of the most visited national park sites in the country. The C&O Canal Trust is the park’s official nonprofit philanthropic partner, committed to supporting the
park and local communities through fundraising initiatives, expanding accessibility, and broadening support through programs that highlight the C&O Canal’s historical, natural, and cultural heritage.
When:
Saturday, December 6, 2025, from 10 am – 12 pm
Where:
C&O Canal Georgetown Visitor Center
1057 Thomas Jefferson Street NW, Washington, DC, 20007
Map Link
We will meet in the grassy yard behind the visitor center.
Who:
All ages are welcome, but parents must remain on-site and responsible for their children the entire time. No drop-offs. Student Service Learning (SSL) hours are available; just bring your forms from school, and we’ll be happy to sign them.
Anticipated Project:
- Invasive species removal
- Tree of heaven (Ailanthus altissima)
- Mulberry (Morus spp.)
- Box elder (Acer negundo)
- English ivy (Hedera helix)
Long sleeves and long pants are highly recommended for removing vegetation to protect against cuts and scratches. Poison ivy may be present within the foliage. While we take every precaution to avoid it and have wipes available onsite, those with extreme reactions to poison ivy should not choose this project.
Due to a section of the towpath being closed, there is a minor detour to access it, and some stairs may be required along the way.
Provided Onsite:
- Required forms, clipboards, and pens
- All project materials: loppers, pruners, work gloves, trash bags, etc.
- First-aid kits
What to Bring:
- Layered, weather-appropriate clothing you don’t mind getting dirty
- Closed-toe shoes or boots
- (Optional) Personal water/snacks
- (Optional) Personal gloves or PPE
Required Forms:
- Adults will fill out a Media Release and volunteer waiver on-site.
- If your child under 18 is volunteering, a parent or guardian must be present at check-in to sign these forms.
Registration:
Questions?
Please contact us at [email protected].
Photo credits: Francis Grant-Suttie