March is a perfect time to do some conservation work in Virginia. Most of our native plants are not yet emerging, but many invasive species try to jump the gun by taking advantage of the competition. Several varieties of invasive honeysuckle fall into this group.

In March 2021, Crews 128 and 648 --both in the Chain Bridge District -- teamed up to identify and remove honeysuckle from Upton Hill Regional Park in Arlington, Virginia. The Venturers had assistance from local naturalists who explained how to identify the plants and why they needed to be removed.

The event was a great way to do a service project during the Covid-19 pandemic because it allowed the volunteers to spread out, wear their masks, and be outside.