Volunteers to tackle invasive weeds

Volunteers are needed to help tackle invasive weeds in the Castle Crown wilderness area.

The Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC), in partnership with Castle Crown Wilderness Coalition, is looking for volunteers to take a hike into Blind Canyon Aug. 10 to target burdock, a noxious weed on property featuring an old homestead site and two creeks.

The event will run from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Blind Canyon, located along the front slopes of the Rocky Mountains, southwest of Twin Butte.

In 2009, thanks to a partnership with Alberta Conservation Association and Alberta Fish and Game Association, NCC was able to purchase the property from the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation when they closed their Canadian operations.

Blind Canyon is part of key movement corridor for wideranging carnivores such as grizzly bears and wolverines. The area along the Rocky Mountain slopes is a haven for a diverse range of plant life. Nine rare species have been documented on the property, including limber pine and mariposa lily.

Volunteers will be able to enjoy the stunning hike to get to the site, led by local guide Wendy Ryan. They will have an opportunity to take in the beautiful scenery and learn about the natural and human history of the area.

Volunteers are still needed for this event. To register, visit www.conservationvolunteers.ca or email alberta@conservation volunteers.ca.

Through its Conservation Volunteers program, NCC offers Canadians of all ages a chance to help restore and care for some of Canada’s most important natural places.