The Lower Mainland Green Team, (LMGT), is kicking off their season with two back-to-back opportunities in Maple Ridge.
On Saturday, March 9 and Sunday, March 10 from 9:45-1 p.m. they will be engaging the community in restoring habitat while having fun in nature in partnership with Alouette River Management Society (ARMS).
More than 40 community members have already signed up to help out in Reg Franklin Park, where both the events are being held.
On the Saturday, the focus will be on removing invasive Himalayan blackberry to support native shrubs previously planted through different initiatives by both ARMS and the green team. The Sunday will see the continuation of our blackberry removal efforts and the planting of 80 more native shrubs.
It is a chance for the community to get outside and connect with others, said Andrea Robles, program coordinator with the green team.
“Activities such as these are a great way to strengthen peoples’ relationship with the outdoors and build a sense of community while making a positive impact locally,” said Robles.
“The LMGT strives to foster these connections and encourage community members to prioritize their health and well-being while adopting sustainable practices and encouraging lifelong environmental stewardship,” she added.
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All ages, abilities, and experience levels are welcome, and there is no experience necessary to participate. The team will provide educational instruction, gloves, tools, and refreshments. The activity will take place rain or shine.
Since beginning their work to restore habitat in Reg Franklin Park with ARMS in 2020, the group has engaged 208 community members over the course of six activities, the last one held on Oct. 7, last year.
The LMGT is a program of the charity Green Teams of Canada and with funding and direction provided by their partner, ARMS, they are not only able to provide an opportunity to learn about the environment and have a positive impact, but are able to help community members to take care of themselves, each other, and the places they live, said Robles.
Those interested in attending can sign up on our Meetup page or by emailing: andrea@greenteamscanada.ca.