Tim Martens demonstrates use of the new "weed wrench" at the Bird Sanctuary Volunteers helped out at the Garden City Bird Sanctuary on September 24 to start a program to eradicate an exotic invasive species, the "Tree of Heaven" from the 9 acre site. The tree, Ailanthus altissima, a native of China, was brought to this country in the early 1800's. It is a tough tree - it took over Brooklyn and thrives in disturbed and neglected sites with poor soils. It thrives under drought conditions and is one of the few trees that has flourished at the Bird Sanctuary this summer. Rob Alvey, Founder of the Bird Sanctuary, had discussions with The Nature Conservancy on ways to control and remove the ailanthus from the site.

Carrying an ailanthus off for disposal. The first volunteer efforts began last weekend. Howard Edelman brought his chain saw and cut down some of the adult trees. Meanwhile, Tim Martens, Maddalena, Anthony, and Tom Pittella, Sean McGuinness, Connor Schmid, and Brian Gillespie used "weed wrenches" to pull out saplings, while Rob Alvey and June Fay bundled up branches for removal.

The initial efforts went well, and will continue during the October 22 "Make A Difference Day" national volunteer community service event at the Bird Sanctuary. The goal is to have complete removal of ailanthus by the end of 2006, and a weed prevention area management plan in effect to ensure the trees don't return. Volunteers of all ages are invited to participate in the upcoming Make A Difference Day program. For information of how you can help, contact Rob Alvey at 326-1720.

Volunteers Maddalena, Anthony, and Tom Pittella, Sean McGuinness, Connor Scmid, and Brian Gillespie.

Volunteers pulling over a stubborn ailanthus sapling Howard Edelman volunteers with his chain saw at the Garden City Bird Sanctuary June Fay starts bundling the ailanthus samplings for disposal