Writer: Cassie Atkinson
Buckthorn was brought to Minnesota in the mid 1800s, after its sudden popularity as a hedging plant in European gardens. Buckthorn naturally forms an impenetrable layer of vegetation and spreads rapidly if unregulated. In 19th century Minnesota, it provided privacy to upper-class homes and gardens, but swiftly expanded as nurseries sold thousands of sprouts and estates went unchecked.
Today, it is “one of Minnesota’s most damaging invasive plants,” according to the University of Minnesota Crop News, as buckthorn now destroys forests, wetlands, prairies, and crops. Further, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources says buckthorn has no natural controllers, such as insects, to limit its growth, contributes to erosion by blocking native plants, and out-competes food sources for animals.
Several organizations, including the MPA community, have taken steps to curb buckthorn’s control. On Saturday, November 20, students and their parents came to help Mr. Thomsen with his pond; their task was to cut buckthorn plants near the root and cover the stump with root killer.
“We like to maintain the pond and tall-grass prairie as a representative of what used to be here. It’s also a great habitat for lots of things that are in trouble, like bees and blue birds. Everyone has supported this, and it has led to this sanctuary.” says Mr. Thomsen.
“Especially near urban areas, having these natural sanctuaries where there isn’t invasive species is critical,” says senior Maya Merchant. “I think it’s important to have youth in environmental issues because this is our future,” she added.
In two hours, they took out hundreds of buds and bushes and cleared a section of the pond’s shoreline. The effort is far from over, but with continuing help from the community, there is hope for a reserve free of invasive species.