Broom busters will be gathering in physically distanced fashion on May 15 for the ultimate spring broom buster bash.
According to Powell River fire chief Terry Peters, the big cut is this coming weekend with local FireSmart representatives onsite.
The gathering will take place, starting at 10 am, at the Manson Avenue extension bordering the Penticton Trails. Participants will round up at the top of Toba Street, past the gate, where there is lots of parking.
“I am predicting with a good turnout and everyone a broom handle apart, we will finish off the entire project for the Manson connector above the trail network,” said Peters.
Powell River Fire Rescue coordinator/public educator Trish Greenwood said due to COVID-19 restrictions, the annual wildfire preparedness day event cannot be held, so an independent activity is being planned that will allow people to protect the community from wildfires, to control invasive species, and provide a chance to win a prize. She said the area targeted is along the Manson extension, bordering the Penticton trails, and fuel mitigation projects in recent years have done a great job at cleaning up the trails. She said, however, some intense infestations of broom sprung up along the roadway.
“Our plan is to clear it this spring and replant the area with deciduous (FireSmart) trees in the fall,” said Greenwood.
She said there is some FireSmart swag at the broom buster bash to give away as well as some gift cards. Names will also be collected to place in a grand draw for a gift certificate of $100 to a local restaurant of the winner’s choice.
“Special thanks to our group for the great job they have done this spring,” said Greenwood. “Please share this out and with many hands there will be light work. Busting doesn’t have to start at 10 am or end at noon – do what you can, where you can. Every bit helps.”
Peters said a few people have asked about pulling plants rather than cutting them at the base. He said that is an option for small plants. He added that roots can go very deep and if the plant is small, it will be an easy pull, and it can be done all year long.
“If the plant is too large then the root base will spread out, pulling up previous year’s seeds, meaning you will have to deal with more plants later,” added Peters. “Hence it is always recommended to retrace your cutting areas for unwanted growth.”
Peters said cutting tips are noted on the website at broombusters.org. He said he looks forward to seeing everyone this weekend.
