You’ve probably heard that ivy, while it may look lovely and rustic climbing on old brick buildings, for example, is an enemy to trees. Steve Richmond explains why, and invites you to a removal project tomorrow:

Did you know English ivy changes leaf shape and goes to seed when it climbs vertically? And while it’s strangling our trees, that birds eat the seed and spread it throughout our forests? Ivy plus blackberry (or any food source: bird feeders, unpicked fruit) also attracts rats – not what we want for a healthy city.

What can you do? Join us this Saturday at Sanislo School wetland to remove ivy. We’re also mulching bare soil to avoid erosion and prevent polluted runoff.

When: Saturday, April 28, 2012 (every 4th Saturday)
Time: 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM (Join for an hour or all day)
Where: Sanislo School Wetland; 1812 SW Myrtle, Seattle, WA 98106. Meet at front of school.
What to bring: Gloves, hand tiller (we’ll have extra, but write your name on your tools), weather-appropriate gear (rain or cold), hat/eye/sun protection, food/water/bottle, sturdy shoes/boots. Snacks and water provided.

For info: pugetcreekwatershedalliance.org; Steve Richmond (206) 650-9807