Dear Editor,

The diversity of wildflowers and wildlife is a huge part of what makes Nederland such an amazing place. Unfortunately, noxious weeds – invasive, aggressive plants introduced to our ecosystems - are causing real harm. Among other problems, noxious weeds can crowd out local wildflowers and plants, which are not only beautiful but are critical for animals, pollinators, and the whole ecosystem.

Nederland’s natural beauty is something truly special, and it’s up to all of us to make sure it stays that way.

To that end, this June, the Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Advisory Board (PROSAB) and the Nederland Parks Department are hosting three volunteer noxious weed pull days from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m., at Chipeta Park on June 10 and Guercio Field on June 11 and June 24. Volunteer weed pulling is an annual event, part of the Town’s overall noxious weed management. It makes a huge difference. All volunteers and all ages are welcome!

Volunteers will be trained on what (and what not!) to pull and how, so there’s no need for experience. To sign up, you can email me at katbarr07@gmail.com, or you can just show up the day of (and bring a friend!). Bring gloves, sunscreen/hat, and water.

I also encourage you to organize your own neighborhood weed pulls! Contact me at katbarr07@gmail.com for more information, I can get you started. And for anyone who wants to learn more, check out the Town of Nederland’s Noxious Weed Management Plan here: https://nederlandco.civicweb.net/ document/27691/ or search the web for “Boulder County Weed Management Guide Mountains” for a handy, printable guide.

Kat Barr

Chairperson

Nederland’s Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Advisory Board (PROSAB)