FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 22, 2024
Butterfly Greenway to Close December 2 - 13, 2024 for Invasive Plant Control
CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA – In September of 2023, The Charlottesville Department of Parks and Recreation began invasive plant control and containment projects at several City parks to help reduce overgrowth of unwanted trees, vines, and shrubs. Beginning the week of December 2nd and concluding December 13th, environmental contract crews will begin work on a 9.5 acre tract of City-owned property adjacent to the Rivanna Trail. The project area will focus on the Butterfly Greenway, roughly the area between John Warner Parkway and the paved Greenway (starting at Melbourne Road and extending to the bridge over Meadow Creek). A large machine called a forestry mulcher will be utilized to remove undergrowth and clear the unwanted plants and vines. Trees and groundcovers will be replanted in December 2024 and spring 2025, and managed for long term growth. Crews are scheduled to be on site for 10 days (weather permitting). Citizens are asked to stay clear of any work zones and safety barriers, and to be aware of temporary trail closures.
As the City’s green spaces become fragmented through land development, the remaining undeveloped areas become more and more valuable for natural resources and their assorted ecological benefits. Through a process of containment and long-term restoration practices, Charlottesville Parks and Recreation will restore natural areas by removing non-native shrubs, vines, and trees, and re-planting native trees and groundcovers.
Questions can be directed to Steve Gaines, Urban Forester, at 434-989-9110 or gainess@charlottesville.gov.
Media Contact:
Steve Gaines
Urban Forester
Charlottesville Parks & Recreation
434-989-9110
gainess@charlottesville.gov