Winchester volunteers make the difference in the battle against invasive plants

Winchester residents rolled up their sleeves this past Saturday to tackle a formidable foe: invasive plant species along the Aberjona River.

More than 45 volunteers of all ages gathered at Judkins Pond and Borggaard Beach on Oct. 26 to lend a hand in the Winchester Conservation Commission’s second Fall Invasive Plant Clean-Up Day. Equipped with clippers and shovels, they worked to clear tenacious invasive plants that choke out native flora.

Controlling invasive species like bittersweet vines, Tree of Heaven, knotweed, and bamboo is essential for maintaining the natural balance of Winchester’s waterways. These aggressive non-native plants can quickly overtake native vegetation, disrupting habitats and threatening the local biodiversity that the river supports, including bird species and other wildlife.

“Days like this wouldn’t be possible without our volunteers,” said Elaine Vreeland, Conservation Commission administrator. “Take a moment to look at the shorelines at Judkins Pond, Elliott Park, and Borggaard Beach to see how lovely they look.”

Over the years, the Conservation Commission’s goals have evolved.

“Back in the late 1980s, our Aberjona Cleanup Days were all about picking up trash,” Vreeland recalled. “Now, we’re focusing on both trash and invasive species in the spring, and dedicating our fall day entirely to invasives.”

“We appreciate the many individuals and groups that share a common interest in restoring Wedge Pond as a wildlife habitat and beautiful recreation space for all Winchester residents to enjoy,” said Conservation Commission member William Band.

In addition to individuals, groups such as the Friends of Wedge Pond, Friends of Winchester Recreation, the Winchester Tennis Association, and students from Winchester High School’s environmental studies class pitched in.

Band also highlighted the ongoing support from the town and key partners, especially Mike Wise and Jimmy Ditullio from Winchester DPW, as well as Recreation Director Nick Cacciolfi, for facilitating access to Borggaard Beach.