Volunteers gathered Sunday morning along the MKT Nature and Fitness Trail in Columbia to remove invasive honeysuckle plants, as part of a collaboration between two mid-Missouri conservation groups. The event was the second annual effort led by Missouri River Relief and the Missouri Conservation Corps to clear the trail of harmful plant species.
The removal of honeysuckle, a highly invasive species, offers several benefits for the trail, according to Stephen Bybee, project director for Missouri Conservation Corps. It enhances visibility for trail users and allows native plants to thrive. “Honeysuckle is one of the easiest invasive species to remove, but it is also one of the most widespread in Columbia,” Bybee explained. “If left unchecked, it will overtake native plants, creating a less healthy ecosystem.”
The Conservation Corps has worked to clear honeysuckle from several areas in Columbia, including Kiwanis Park and Garth Nature Area. The MKT Trail is the latest area to be targeted in the ongoing effort.
Founded in 2021, the Missouri Conservation Corps is a newer nonprofit dedicated to environmental conservation in Columbia’s parks. Missouri River Relief, established in 2001, has a long history of organizing cleanups along the Missouri River.
Approximately 33 volunteers participated in Sunday’s honeysuckle removal, as reported by Lara Cox, education coordinator for Missouri River Relief. According to Cox, such collaborations between conservation groups are rare, making this event especially significant. Volunteers worked to cut and remove honeysuckle plants, including their roots. When roots were too difficult to remove, a diluted herbicide recommended by Columbia Parks and Recreation was applied.
Bybee noted that simply cutting back honeysuckle is not enough, as the plant often regrows stronger if its roots are not fully removed. The Missouri Conservation Corps has organized over 40 volunteer events this year, with plans to host about 50 by mid-December. Bybee said one of the most rewarding aspects of these events is fostering a sense of community. On Sunday, volunteers included college students, master naturalists, and other local residents.
“We are not only improving the habitat, but we are also bringing people together, which is incredibly important right now,” Bybee said.
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