Buckthorn is one of Ontario’s most aggressive invasive plants, crowding out native species, blocking sunlight from reaching the forest floor, and spreading quickly through natural areas.
To help restore local ecosystems, Credit Valley Conservation and the Halton and North Peel Naturalist Club are hosting a hands-on cleanup where participants will remove buckthorn from a local park. Afterward, the harvested branches will be turned into handcrafted wooden witch’s broomsticks, with all materials and step-by-step instructions provided. Removing buckthorn helps create space for native plants to recover, making this Halloween-themed activity both creative and environmentally meaningful.
The event takes place at Cedarvale Park in Georgetown (181 Main Street South, Halton Hills), not Toronto’s Cedarvale Ravine. The free event runs on Sunday, October 25, from 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m., and advance registration through Eventbrite is recommended. Georgetown is located about an hour west of Toronto, so be sure to allow for travel time.
Plan Ahead
Participants should dress for outdoor stewardship work, including long pants, long socks, closed-toe shoes, and a hat, and bring water, sunscreen, and bug spray. Children 13 and under must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, while those aged 14 to 17 require either parental supervision or a signed waiver. The event is suitable for all ages, including seniors, and will proceed rain or shine unless severe weather requires cancellation.
With a Halloween-inspired twist, participants will leave with a handcrafted witch’s broomstick made from the invasive buckthorn they helped remove while supporting local ecosystem restoration.
Event Details
- When: Sunday, October 25, 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.
- Where: Cedarvale Park, 181 Main Street South, Georgetown, ON
- Registration: Recommended via Eventbrite
- Who: All ages welcome; children 13 and under must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, and youth 14–17 require parental supervision or a signed waiver
- What to Bring / Wear: Water, sunscreen, and bug spray. Long pants, long socks, closed-toe shoes, and a hat
- Weather: Rain or shine (unless severe weather)
- Take Home: A handcrafted witch’s broomstick made from the buckthorn you remove
