Winter Brush Blitz

Winter Brush Blitz is our community conservation series focused on clearing invasive shrubs at the Brewster Wetland Complex. Winter gives us unique advantages when working with large woody invasives: open understories, better visibility, firmer ground, and the chance to reset habitat before spring growth returns.

This season, we’ll concentrate all our effort on the Brewster Wetland Complex, a preserve with high-quality wetlands, floodplains, and upland habitat. Our goal is to remove the invasive shrubs that are suppressing native plant growth and altering the structure of these systems. Clearing invasives is only the first step. We’ll repurpose the removed brush to rebuild functional, creative habitat structures that increase ecological complexity, including Songbird Nesting Thickets, Pollinator Cover Islands, Brush “Reef” Structures for Wetlands, and classic wildlife brush piles.

Come join Zac Justus, our Forestry & Restoration Coordinator, as we work together to restore these habitats. Along the way, you’ll learn to identify invasive plants in their winter form and build practical stewardship skills. Whether you’re an experienced land steward or joining us for the first time, your work will make a meaningful impact during the season when invasive species are most manageable.

Enjoy crisp winter air, teamwork, and the feeling of making a clear, measurable difference. Tools, training, and hot chocolate will be provided. Let’s make steady, meaningful progress on a landscape that deserves it!