Category Archives: Volunteer

October Weedbusters

October Weebusters.jpg

Our invasive plant species removal program, also known as “Weedbusters“, began in 2004. This makes it one of the first community group programs doing this important work to champion our native species to ensure ecological diversity in Burnaby Lake Regional Park. 

You do not need any prior experience or knowledge to volunteer. We will provide you with the training you will need to identify and safely remove invasive plants. There will also be experienced volunteers or BLPA Directors to answer any questions you have about Weedbusters and the BLPA. 

This fall we are focusing on 2 projects. 

  1. The first project is to dig out blackberry roots behind the Nature House and cover the ground with weed cloth so no birds can nest there in the spring. This means we should be able to have some Weedbuster events in the Spring to continue removing the Blackberry roots and then plant there in fall 2024. 
  2. The second project is a Wildflower Meadow at Lenson. We will be laying down cardboard/coffee bags over the grass and then covering it with dirt. Then we will spread a seed mix of wildflowers. However, this project is subject to change if there is any job action by Metro Vancouver Park Staff. If that happens, we will pivot to an invasive plant removal. The meeting location will not change.  

The first 2 events are at the Burnaby Lake Nature House located at 4519 Piper Avenue. Sign up at the links:

The third and fourth events meet at the Lenson Garage located on 9157 Avalon Avenue. (see map below). Sign up at the links below.

Each registration link wil have details on what to bring and where to meet. Click here full directions (including transit).

Welcome Back Weedbusters

Now that it’s September*, WEEDBUSTERS IS BACK

Join us at our habitat restoration work parties as we start up again this month:

  • Saturday, September 16 – 10 am to 1 pm – Meet at BLPA Nature House – Sign up here
  • Saturday, September 23 – 10 am to 1 pm – Meet at Lenson Garage – Sign up here

No experience necessary. We have developed an orientation program so new volunteers can start to join us again in our stewardship work. You will learn about the BLPA, how we work with Metro vancouver Regional Parks, why your contribution to our work is important, how to identify invasive species that have become established and replaced native species and how to safely remove them.

Training, tools and refreshements will be provided.

Spaces are limited. Registration required.

More events will be added soon.

* The BLPA adheres to the guidelines set out by the provincial Wildlife Act and federal Migratory Birds Convention Act. to reduce the risk of disturbance and harm to nesting birds, from mid-March to August 31.

Thank You BLPA Volunteers!

We wanted to express our gratitude to the efforts of our volunteers, including our Board of Directors. They put in over 2300 hours of volunteer time in 2022 – from hands-on stewardship and outreach, to strategic planning, meetings and administration, showing their passion for nature and dedication to the BLPA and Burnaby Lake Regional Park. THANK YOU!