WHAT
Please join the ‘Privateers’ weekly stewardship volunteers at Wolf Tree Nature Trails where we will radically shift gears from last week. The first target here is Spotted Knapweed, a very persistent and wiley perennial. It has a serious tap root: we may need to use weeding tools to get it up if there is no rain, or simply cut and daub like a woody. But we also need to carry out the seed heads, which have the reputation and making tons of seeds even if the plant is uprooted: some garbage bags will be needed. And hand pruners, maybe weeding tools, and gloves: the plants can cause a rash in some people. And of course we will continue to yank out other easier plants like Oxeye Daisy and remaining Japanese Hedge Parsley. We can get the “usual” woody invasives any time, but we need to stop these plants before they set seeds.
BRING
• Work gloves, hand pruners, weeding tools. and your favorite cutting tools if you have them (we also have tools you can borrow). Eye protection is good to have on hand (safety glasses if you don’t already wear prescription glasses).
• Don’t forget the creature comforts: sunscreen if you’re prone to burning, drinking water, snacks in case you get hungry, and a bandana for mopping up sweat.
MOSQUITOES
They’re highly likely in the natural habitats where we work so bring your favorite insect repellant. Head nets are helpful – they may look funny but they’re way better than a squeet in the eye!
TICKS! Don’t let them keep you indoors! Just take sensible precautions like tucking your pants into your socks, applying insect repellant to your clothing, and thoroughly checking your body for hitch hikers when you get home. If you have access to a dryer, run your clothes at high heat for 10 minutes to kill the little buggers.
DRESS
As usual, wear comfortable clothes that you don’t mind potentially getting dirty, stained, or ripped – and dress in layers that you can shed when you get hot. Sturdy boots or shoes are a must – no open-toed shoes.
RESTROOMS
Just so you know and can be prepared, there are no restrooms at this preserve.

APPROXIMATE STREET ADDRESS
8700 block of West KL Avenue, Kalamazoo, MI 49009
GPS
42.28143689167079, -85.71757490476274