Mother Nature is powerful, and she lets us know it when non-native invasive species such as the gorgeous and robust bittersweet vine turn up in our roadsides, fields and gardens.

On Wednesday, October 30, from 9-11:30AM, join the Chocorua Lake Conservancy for a morning of exercise while helping to manage bittersweet at the CLC Brown Lot. This preserve has been the recent focus of bittersweet control, with the field mowed in preparation for spring management. Just inside the woods we have a jungle of bittersweet vines to cut as well. In preparation for our planned spring efforts, we hope to cut back the larger vines that are strangling trunks and branches high into the trees. 

The leaves and fruit of this invasive vine are quite beautiful, but the larger vines can kill trees, and vines and ground cover can out compete native shrubs. Tackling the vines helps to reduce tree loss and reduces the chance of mature vines producing fruits. A grant from the Natural Resources Conservation Services will provide us with resources to spray the invading sprouts in the spring, especially in the field where we would like to see native pollinators thrive in the future.

Bring loppers, hand saws, gloves, water and a snack, and we’ll have a merry time! Meet at the Island Kiosk at Chocorua Lake and we will walk across the highway from there. Questions? Call Lynne at the office, 603-323-6252 or email lflaccus@chocorualakeconservancy.org.

Naturalist Lynne Flaccus has 30 years of experience in land conservation and stewardship, managing protected properties, studying wildlife, and educating adults and children.

Banner: Twisted bittersweet vine. Photo: Lynne Flaccus