Your chance to be a superhero against an invasive species

NEWS RELEASE
INVASIVE SPECIES CENTRE
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On Saturday, May 26, from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., the public is invited to take part in the 3rd annual Sutton Park Garlic Mustard Pull in Sutton Park, located along the Hub Trail in the city’s east end, has been identified as an invasive species hot spot for garlic mustard.

“The growth of garlic mustard creates a significant ecological problem that can impact not only Sutton Park but also surrounding private properties, and eventually, other natural spaces in our city,” says Deane Greenwood, Sault Ste. Marie Regional Conservation Authority (SMRCA).

Garlic Mustard (Alliaria petiolata) was introduced by European settlers in the early 1800s as an edible herb. Although the basal leaves of the plant look similar to several plants in the carrot, daisy and violet family, the tell-tale proof of identity is the scent of garlic that is released when leaves are crushed.

Garlic Mustard hinders the growth of native plants in Sutton Park by interfering with the growth of fungi that bring nutrients to the roots of the plants. It impedes the growth of some of Ontario’s most beloved plants including drooping trillium and the wood poppy.

It is one of Ontario’s most aggressive forest invaders. Garlic Mustard plants can double in size every four years and aren’t a valuable food source for native wildlife.

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