Broom Busters

The Scotch Broom Busters in the Comox Valley are hardy individuals dedicated to the eradication of Scotch Broom, an invasive plant species. Scotch Broom (Cytisus scoparius) is a highly aggressive plant native to Europe and has become a problem in many regions around the world, including parts of North America, Australia, and New Zealand. Ryan Road has been particularly notorious for this plant.

Here are some steps that Scotch Broom Busters typically take to combat this invasive plant:

1. First they organize as a group and form a team of volunteers interested in removing Scotch Broom. They collaborate with local conservation organizations, community groups, or government agencies to raise awareness and recruit more participants.
2. Survey and prioritize areas: Conduct surveys to identify areas heavily infested with Scotch broom. Prioritize locations based on the size of the infestation, proximity to sensitive ecosystems, and potential impact on native flora and fauna.
3. Removal techniques: Use various methods to remove Scotch broom, such as hand-pulling, cutting at the base, or digging out the roots. Small infestations can often be manually removed, while larger areas may require mechanical tools like brush cutters or herbicides approved for use on invasive plants.
4. Proper disposal: Ensure proper disposal of the removed Scotch broom plants. Bag and seal them to prevent seed dispersal and dispose of them according to local regulations. Composting or burning may be appropriate in some cases.
5. Replanting and restoration: After removing Scotch broom, replanting native vegetation helps restore the area’s ecological balance and prevent the reestablishment of the invasive species.
6. They continue to raise awareness about the impacts of Scotch Broom and the importance of its eradication. Provide educational resources, workshops, or community events to engage the public and promote broader participation.

Scotch Broom Busters play a vital role in preserving biodiversity and protecting native ecosystems from the negative impacts of invasive species.  More land owners could contribute to the restoration and conservation of natural habitats in their communities by partnering with these hard working citizens.