Saturday, September 24, 2011, at 9:00 AM at Plateau du Mont Boron (Bus line no. 14)
Throughout the year, the Maison de l’Environnement offers a rich and free program with exhibitions, conferences, debates, educational activities, etc.
On Saturday, September 24, the Maison de l’Environnement and the botanical garden invite nature enthusiasts to participate in preserving the exceptional site of Mont Boron.
Specifically, this involves uprooting an invasive species, the senecio or Cape ragwort, which, through its exponential growth, “chokes” indigenous vegetation. At the heart of the site, a highly colonized area of 1,000 m² will be the ideal setting for showcasing eco-citizen participation.
The program:
To kick off the morning, 50 volunteers will be offered a session to raise awareness about invasive plants by a botanist from the Nice botanical garden (lasting about 30’).
Subsequently, for about 2 hours, both young and old will participate in uprooting the senecio with the help of the Nice City services. Appropriate equipment will be provided.
Why uproot invasive plants?
One aspect of respectful environmental management involves limiting, even eradicating when possible, these invasive species. Of course, we have grown accustomed to this vegetation which is now part of our landscape. It can be difficult to accept that such pretty plants could be so detrimental to the environment.
Nevertheless, it is a reality that can no longer be ignored today!
Invasive species have been recognized as the second leading cause of biodiversity loss, immediately following habitat loss or disappearance globally (Convention on Biological Diversity, 2000).
The use of these plants, as pretty as they may be, should thus be limited and even avoided in some instances, and their uprooting is a highly beneficial action for the environment.
Why uproot the Cape ragwort present at Mont Boron?
Introduced in 1936 in the region as an ornamental plant, this variety has since made its way into many natural areas, notably at Mont Boron. Highly prolific, it threatens to smother the indigenous vegetation of the site, which is very rich and diverse, notably including several protected, endemic, or heritage species.
