Bittersweet Undertaking

There’s a party planned April 28, but guests should arrive prepared to work.

A work party to eradicate Oriental bittersweet at Forbush Sanctuary will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 28 at Forbush Sanctuary.

Those attending are asked to meet at the trailhead at 38 North St., which is located between Chestnut Street and Merriam Road. 

Parking is along the curb on North Street and on Chestnut Street.  Participants are asked to bring work gloves, insect repellant, and loppers if they have them.

Oriental bittersweet is a vigorously growing vine that climbs over and smothers vegetation which may die from excessive shading or breakage, according to information provided by the Plant Conservation Alliance.

When bittersweet climbs high up on trees the increased weight can lead to uprooting and blow-over during high winds and heavy snowfalls, the alliance reports.