4/25/2015 | St. Francois State Park | Bonne Terre, MO
The Virginia bluebells that carpet the ground each spring bring many visitors to St. Francios State Park, but they are now in danger. The alien invader, garlic mustard, has begun to move into the area. Last year, a group of Scouts and park visitors took matters into their own hands, literally, and pledged to help save the bluebells. Those visitors pulled more than 500 pounds of this alien plant, but there is more out there waiting to continue invading. This plant is a real killer; garlic mustard produces toxins in its roots that keep other plants from growing. If we don't act quickly, we could lose the bluebells that visitors love. Only an army of volunteers can help us defeat this invasive alien species!
Come out to the park for the second Save The Bluebells event. Helpers will receive a certificate and a special snack made with the garlic mustard as a token of thanks. Trash bags will be provided. Volunteers wishing to wear gloves should bring a pair. The group will meet at the amphitheater, and will be led to the site by park staff. For more information, please call the park at 573-358-2173.