Pull invasive plants from Rithet’s Bog

Help remove invasive nonnative Narrow Leaf and Hybrid Cattails from Rithet’s Bog on Saturday.

The goal of the Rithet’s Bog Restoration event is to improve the habitat for waterfowl and shorebirds by reclaiming areas of open water and mudflat that have been overgrown by non-native cattails. That will allow native cattail species, an important part of the marsh ecology, to flourish.

Rithet’s Bog includes an original peat bog that was drained for farming, then restored to bog marsh again. The peat understory has been rebuilt, but the balance of original and invasive plants needs management.

The original peat bog marsh is the only one left of seven once established on Vancouver Island. It’s similar to Burns Bog on the mainland, but smaller.

The urban wetland attracts hawks, owls, herons, swans, ducks, mink and butterflies. Walking trails and view spots are available for those wishing to view wildlife.

For Saturday’s event, volunteers are asked to bring gloves, water, rain/sun gear, rubber boots or sturdy footwear. No previous experience is required. Refreshments and on-site instruction will be provided.

The event is co-hosted by the Saanich Peninsula Committee of Ducks Unlimited, Saanich Parks, Saanich Pulling Together Volunteers and the Rithet’s Bog Conservation Society.

The event runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., with partday participation welcomed. Meet on Chatterton Way (near the intersection with Quadra Street). Limited parking is available in the adjacent shopping centre or Dalewood Lane. For details, contact Barbara Schubert of Ducks Unlimited Saanich Committee at accurate123@gmail.com or 250-381-0855.