Invasive Rundown

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One of the biggest threats to a new riparian restoration project is invasive species. Non-native vegetation can outcompete recently installed native species. This problem can persist for years.

Blackberry – Who hasn’t seen blackberry canes intertwined with a cedar? Blackberries can overtop desirable vegetation and shade it out. Preventing photosynthesis is one way invasive species eliminate competition from native species. Knotweed is especially adept at this survival strategy. Blackberry canes are also capable of overtopping 10 foot tall trees then pulling them down and shading them out.

Blackberry

 

English Ivy – Most people are familiar with English Ivy and think that it adds a classic look when it climbs buildings and trees. This extra weight and bulk causes trouble for native trees because the ivy leaves act as a sail and can catch more wind during storm events. Native trees are not accustomed to this extra stressor and can breakoff and fall under the extra weight and pressure.

English Ivy

 

English Holly – Another invasive species from England that thrives in the Pacific northwest are holly trees. This species brings to mind Christmas. It is also one of the few species that is capable of growing and reproducing in an established, mature forest. Typically invasive species prefer disturbed sites to become established, think abandoned lots, clearcuts, agricultural fields, etc. Established forests, especially ones with dense conifers, are one of the best defenses against invasive species establishment. English Holly is capable of becoming established in these habitat.

English Holly

 

It can get overwhelming when one thinks of all the invasive species across the landscape (and we have only touched in plants, there’s a whole other category of invasive animals). While some invasive species will never be eliminated, it is possible to achieve local control. If you’re interested in more information, contact your local Noxious Weed Control Board.

Himalayan Blackberry Removal

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This week our Washington Conservation Corps (WCC) crew was busy cutting Himalayan blackberry at a new project along the Samish River. Removing invasive species like blackberry is often the first step in restoration, and creates the opportunity for our field crews to plant native trees and shrubs. Over the next two years, SFEG will plant 2,300 plants across 13 acres at this site. When completed, this project will improve over 1,500 linear feet of stream habitat.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

     
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    Before and after photos of blackberry brush removed by a WCC member 

 

 

At a site near the town of Sedro-Woolley, SFEG crews used a tractor to till an area that was previously a dense thicket of invasive Himalayan blackberry. Tilling helps break up the compacted soil and makes blackberry roots easier to remove by hand. Our Washington Conservation Corps (WCC) crew then planted native trees and shrubs in the tilled area. When the project is completed, 2,500 native plants will be planted to improve over two acres of riparian habitat.

(Left) Joe George, our Restoration Coordinator, tills the ground to make blackberry root removal easier.

 

(Right) Removed blackberry roots

 

 

 

Vegetation Monitoring Paid Internship

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Students!

Do you like working outside? Looking to gain relevant career experience working in habitat restoration and monitoring?

Join our team to help SFEG ensure the success of habitat restoration efforts. Vegetation Monitoring Interns assist SFEG staff in field operations including vegetation monitoring, site maintenance, volunteer outreach events, and native plant nursery management. At our native plant nursery, interns perform tasks such as weed control, watering, native plant propagation, and small structural updates.

Qualifications: 

  • Background and interest in environmental science/studies, biology, native plant horticulture, gardening, and/or outdoor recreation.
  • Self-motivated and willing to learn.  
  • Able to identify or be willing to learn to identify plants native to Western Washington. 
  • Have the ability to work with volunteers and provide personal vehicles for transportation. 
  • This position requires work outside in all types of weather and uneven terrain, and applicants must have the ability to lift up to 40 lbs.

Time Commitment:  

This is a volunteer position which qualifies for a stipend, and requires a time commitment of:

  • 2-3 days a week
  • 8-10 hours a day, Monday-Saturday
  • Total commitment: 300 hours, to be established with academic advisor and Skagit Fisheries Enhancement Group. 
  • Interns will generally spend 2 days a week in the field vegetation monitoring. Approx. 1 day every other week spent at the nursery or managing data. Interns may occasionally assist with weekend volunteer events. 
  • Two positions available: late May–mid September.

Successful completion of 150 hours eligible for a stipend of $2,250; successful completion of 300 hours eligible for a stipend of $4,500.

The earliest start date is May 18, 2026.

TO APPLY send resume via Online Application .  Two positions open until filled