I wanted to share with our members and community our work at Arbor Hills today, July 17th. My partners with the city brought out a chipper to take care of the very large volume of privet (Ligustrum spp.). The team cut and also sprayed herbicide using safe methods, so as not to harm any surrounding vegetation or us more than necessary to limit the impact on the environment. I have attached some photos of our work today.
Over the past 18 months, the Blackland Prairie Texas Master Naturalist chapter has been working closely with the City of Plano to restore and protect natural spaces in our local parks. This growing partnership has opened the door to meaningful conservation work, and one of our biggest shared goals has been tackling invasive plant species.
One primary focus has been the removal of privet (Ligustrum spp.), an aggressive non-native shrub that threatens native plant diversity and degrades habitat for wildlife. With support from Plano Parks and Recreation, our volunteers have been able to expand efforts. Plano has provided valuable assistance with follow-up herbicide treatments in cut areas and has been a true partner in helping us reach long-term restoration goals.
This cooperative effort is an excellent example of how cities and volunteers can collaborate to achieve lasting ecological improvements. We’re grateful for Plano’s commitment to conservation and excited to continue building on this successful partnership.
Ready to get your hands dirty for a great cause? Check out the Plano Park Workdays on our calendar! If you’re eager to lend a hand and join our dedicated Plano Parks Volunteer Service workdays, just contact project leader Jean Higgins at [email protected]. Come make a real difference in our local parks!
