Battling Botanical Bullies

The Savage River Watershed Association (SRWA) is looking for adult volunteers to continue control efforts of Japanese spiraea in the Bear Pen Run area of Savage River State Forest.  Bear Pen is designated as a Type 1 Wildland and like other natural areas around the State is threatened by a variety of exotic invasive species.  We’ll be working on Thursday April 29^th and Friday May 7^th from 8:30 am to 12:30 pm to continue efforts to reduce the infestation using both mechanical and chemical control methods.  Kerrie Kyde, Invasive Plant Specialist with the Maryland Wildlife & Heritage Service, is providing technical support.  Wade Dorsey, Savage River State Forest manager, is providing work tools.  Mary Ironside, Big Run & New Germany State Park manager, is providing free camping the night before for any out-of-town volunteers.  The Savage River Watershed Association is coordinating the project and providing snacks for volunteers.  For more details or to volunteer, email Savage River Watershed Association at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or call Ron Boyer, SRWA invasive species removal coordinator, at 301-895-3686.

The SRWA is a group of local landowners and other citizens dedicated to preserving and enhancing the rural nature and natural resources of the Savage River watershed.  Members assist interested landowners and public land managers with environmental stewardship efforts and educational outreach.  Anyone who is concerned about the Savage River watershed is invited to join.  SRWA meetings are held at Route 40 Elementary School on the third Thursday of odd numbered months, beginning at 7 p.m.  The school is located at 17764 National Pike, a few miles west of Frostburg.  For more information, persons may contact SRWA via email at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , or by telephone at 301-689-7156.  The SRWA is a non profit charitable organization.  Donations may be sent to: Savage River Watershed Association, PO Box 355, Frostburg, MD 21532.

PHOTO CAPTION: Weed Warriors from a previous campaign battled invasive species in Savage River State Forest, at the Bear Pen area, about 1 mile upstream from BJ's Store. Pictured left to right, back row are Grover Martin, Bob Lewis and Bill Fitzpatrick; front row, Laura Haynes -- director of the Savage River Watershed Assoc. -- Donna Fitzpatrick, Kathy Tunney and Paul Fletcher.

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