Howdy, partners!
Help prevent our parks from becoming the Wild West of invasive species.
Japanese Barberry (Berberis thunbergii) is a highly invasive shrub in Michigan and provides shelter to some of our least favorite ruffians—ticks.
Interested in stopping the spread?
Please contact Muskegon County Parks staff to schedule this volunteer opportunity. Staff will help volunteers identify Japanese Barberry and demonstrate safe, effective removal techniques to prevent damage to surrounding native plants.
Please note: This species can be difficult to remove and may be better suited for older groups. Removal requires digging up the full root ball or chemical treatment.
Chemical treatment may only be completed by parks staff or volunteers with a certified applicator license. Volunteers may assist by cutting plants before treatment is applied by staff.
Prime Wranglin’ Season
Manual Removal: Spring to early summer, when soil is soft and plants are easiest to remove.
Chemical Treatment: Late summer through fall.
Location
Dune Harbor Park – Muskegon County
Lincoln Lot
3071 Lincoln St, Norton Shores, MI 49441
OR
Seminole Lot
2161 Seminole Rd, Norton Shores, MI 49441
What to Bring
- Sunscreen
- Refillable water bottle
- Weather-appropriate clothing
- Closed-toe shoes recommended
Muskegon County Parks will provide all necessary tools and gloves.
For Schools & Groups
Please follow your organization’s required teacher/chaperone ratios. Muskegon County Parks recommends:
-
Ages 6 and under: 1 adult per 3 students Ages 7–10: 1 adult per 5 students(This event is not recommended for children under 10.)- Ages 11–13: 1 adult per 8 students
- Ages 14–17: 1 adult per 14 students
This park ain’t big enough for invasive species, saddle up and help us wrangle some weeds!
