Cutting Broom in Bloom

Let's All Do Our Part and Reduce Potential Fire Hazard Risk

There was a very informative notice a few weeks ago in eSpokes regarding broom….

Scotch Broom is an invasive noxious species and poses a significant wildfire risk for our island. Test burns have proven that these plants are especially volatile due to the high oil content and dead material that accumulates under the healthy and old plants. When left to spread, Broom grows rapidly crowding out native plant regrowth.

Cut Broom now as it is more vulnerable when in bloom. Cut at ground level as not to expose the stem is preferred, leaving the roots to die in the heat of the summer. Each plant eliminated is up to 18,000 future seeds that have been denied the opportunity to spread. This simple task will undoubtably protect our community and lessen a potential wildfire.

I’ve noticed the broom situation getting worse on Thetis and considering how flammable it is, (not to mention how invasive it is) it would be great if everyone could make an effort to clear at least some broom around their road and ditch areas.

Please consider cutting some while it is still in bloom.

N Duncan