Conservation with the Blackstone Parks Conservancy

I recently attended a volunteering event with the Blackstone Parks Conservancy at the Blackstone Conservation Area, just east of Blackstone Boulevard. The main goal of this ongoing operation has been to remove Mugwort, an invasive species, from the area just around York Pond. Mugwort is characterized by its tall stems, strong roots, and “turkey foot” shaped leaf. It spreads rapidly and takes the place of native plant species that ensure bird habitat in the ecosystem. This has been a highly successful removal process so far, as the area has mostly been converted back into a healthy wetland meadow, thanks to the work of the Blackstone Parks Conservancy.