Lake Zurich residents can earn cash for eliminating Buckthorn

The Ancient Oaks Foundation has recently announced the launch of its new initiative, the Buckthorn Bounty program.

Designed to combat the invasive buckthorn infestation in local oak woodlands, this community-driven program offers Lake Zurich residents a unique opportunity to make a positive impact on the environment while earning rewards for their efforts.

Buckthorn, a nonnative plant species, has become a growing threat to the ecological balance of local natural areas. By choking out native plants and affecting wildlife habitats, it poses a significant risk to the health and beauty of oak woodlands, jeopardizing the experiences of future generations of Lake Zurich residents.

The Buckthorn Bounty program aims to mobilize residents in the fight against this invasive menace. Participants can earn up to $150 per household for removing buckthorn from their properties. The program encourages safe and effective removal methods, including herbicide treatments to prevent resprouting.

Here's how the Buckthorn Bounty program works:

• Residents can register as Buckthorn Bounty participants on the Ancient Oaks Foundation website, ancientoaksfoundation.org/BuckthornBounty. Each participant will be required to take "before" photos of their buckthorn infestation.

• Participants will receive expert guidance on buckthorn removal methods.

• Following the removal process, residents report their success, and the Ancient Oaks Foundation team verifies the efforts.

• For each buckthorn stump removed with a diameter of ½-inch to 3.75 inches, participants earn a $2 bounty. Stumps measuring 4 inches and above are rewarded with $5 each.

• The program allows residents to earn rewards of up to $150 per household.

"The Buckthorn Bounty program is a fantastic opportunity for Lake Zurich residents to actively engage in the conservation of our precious oak woodlands," said Mary Kozub, board president of the Ancient Oaks Foundation.

"By joining together in this community effort, we can make a significant impact on the preservation of our local natural areas, ensuring they remain a source of beauty and wonder for generations to come."

To get involved in the Buckthorn Bounty program, visit ancientoaksfoundation.org/BuckthornBounty.

The Ancient Oaks Foundation is a local conservation group dedicated to the preservation and enhancement of Lake Zurich's oak woodlands and natural areas through education, volunteerism, supportive funding, and long-term planning.

Founded by a group of passionate area residents who love nature, the organization is committed to creating a greener, more sustainable future for the community.

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