Barsness Buckthorn Brigade (a group of volunteers dedicated to getting rid of the invasive plant buckthorn) will be using volunteers to survey Barsness Park in Glenwood to identify areas infested with buckthorn and other invasive species; document stages of infestation (seedling to mature trees); prioritize areas needing work; help in choosing control methods; monitor previous  work completed; and track the spread/eradication of buckthorn in the park.  The information gathered will be used by the city and the Buckthorn Brigade in planning and management of the park, according to Wayne Zimmerman, one of the organizers of the Barsness Buckthorn Brigade.

“Because buckthorn leafs out earlier than other trees and shrubs, we hope to have our volunteers trained and ready to map by early spring,” Zimmerman said.

Kylee Berger, Regional Forester for Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR), will provide training and assist with mapping/surveying.  

 “If you enjoy walking in the woods, have an interest in  learning  how to identify buckthorn from similar species; and a desire to keep Barsness Park healthy please attend the training,” said Zimmerman.  The training session is set for 10 a.m.  on Wednesday, Feb. 22 at Glenwood City Hall–100 17th Ave. NW in Glenwood.

According to Zimmerman, the group may do a field training session at a designated area following a break for lunch.  Those who plan to attend can review materials on the Minnesota DNR Buckthorn website at https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/wood/buckthorn/index.html.

If you would like to volunteer but are unable to attend the meeting, please call the City of Glenwood at 320-634-5543 and leave your name and phone number with a request to be contacted by a member of the Buckthorn Brigade, Zimmerman explained.