Launching the Invaders Campaign
Japanese barberry is a popular nursery plant that is well behaved in suburban yards—but in the Drew Forest, it is the number one invasive species, according to Dr. Sara Webb, the Forest’s director. To think like a bird and connect the dots between suburban yards and open space, we applied for a $1500 grant from the Association of NJ Environmental Commissions. The grant will be used to remove 15 barberry bushes at Gibbons Pines Park and replaced them with native shrubs. The new habitat will be the centerpiece of an education and outreach campaign called “The Invaders,” highlighting the top five nursery invasives at the Drew Forest: barberry, burning bush, Asian wisteria, Asian honeysuckle and English ivy.
Bothered by These Suckers? Please Don’t Spray
Star-Ledger Guest Columnist
I’ve read the statistics. I know bumblebee populations have declined by 90% and up to a third of firefly species may risk extinction.
That’s why I grow milkweed and pollinator plants and leave leaf litter for firefly larva. But am I making a difference? Do I see more monarchs? Mason bees? Moths?
The only insect I can vouch for is the mosquito. Populations appear to be flourishing, judging by yard signs, flyers and billboards promoting mosquito spray services.
From my side of the fence, the problem is this: If someone sprays a fine mist of pesticides at the shady, flower-free areas where mosquitoes rest, it won’t just kill mosquitoes.
“It can impact bees, butterflies, moths, caterpillars and insects that birds depend on as a food,” says David Mizejewski, a naturalist with the National Wildlife Federation.