City of Edmonton - Volunteer Weed Pull Program

Buckthorn Pruning in George F. Hustler

City of Edmonton staff will be leading volunteers in hand-pulling seedlings, pruning branches and collecting berries off of common buckthorn, an invasive shrub in Edmonton’s River Valley.

Parking: There is free residential parking on 98A Ave and a small parking lot on 96A St.

Transit: There is a bus stop on 96A St and 98 Ave which is a short 3 minute walk from the weed pull site. The Valley Line Muttart station is also nearby which is a 9 minute walk that crosses a pedestrian bridge over 98 Ave.

Biking: George F. Hustler Plaza is a part of the popular Henrietta Muir Edwards Park, connected by a trail system to the east and west. There is no bike rack at the weed pull site. You can lock your bike to a signpost or tree, and we will be off-trail in an area where you will always be able to see your bike. 

Weed Pull Site: 

We will be working on removing common buckthorn, an invasive shrub that has thorns, so long sleeves and pants are highly recommended. The site is mostly flat and in full view from the adjacent street. Leather gloves and other safety equipment will be provided. 

The site is accessed by walking through mowed grass to the treestand. The site is shaded. The terrain is relatively even and vegetated with grasses and small shrubs. If there are fallen trees and other hidden hazards, City staff will point out and/or flag. It can be slippery after rainfall, but if conditions are unfavorable we will relocate to a nearby site and let volunteers know. 

Washrooms: 

There are no public washroom facilities available nearby. Please use the washroom prior to the event. 

Other Site Details:

• In the summer months, an "accidental beach” is formed on the North Saskatchewan River that is frequently visited on warm days, there may be large crowds and noise.

If you require any accommodations, please reach out to us at invasiveweeds@edmonton.ca. We want to keep learning about the diverse needs of our community, and we value your contributions greatly!