First off, I would like to commend Linda Kopper for taking the initiative to do her part in the battle against the formidable Japanese Knotweed. Please join us on Saturday, 10am-12pm at the pullout on Rt 109 just before Waterville, for a JKW work party followed by a potluck picnic! (Please bring loppers/shovel/workgloves, if you have them, along with boots/clothes you don't mind getting dirty and a water bottle/something to share for the potluck and your own plate/cutlery).

For more information email: cambridgejkw@gmail.com

For those of your not familiar with it, Japanese Knotweed ("Bamboo") is fast growing and EXTREMELY invasive. It is taking over our roadsides and riverbanks. It can be recognized by its teardrop-shaped leaves, jointed stems with red streaks, and a spray of white flowers in the fall. It can grow to over 8ft tall.

Why should we care? JKW displaces all other vegetation and forms a dense monoculture that is useless as habitat for native species since most insects and other animals cannot eat it. Recent flooding has greatly increased its spread around the state, and volunteers are urgently needed to help spot new stands and prevent its further spread.

To learn more about JKW and other invasive species - https://vtinvasives.org/; and about work being in done in neighbouring Hyde Park - https://hydeparkvt.com/knot-in-hyde-park/