Celebrating Volunteer Efforts in Invasive Species Removal at Pineridge Park, Plus Upcoming Spooky Pumpkin Walk

Thursday, October 17, 2024 - The District of Sooke is proud to recognize the tremendous efforts of community volunteers from the Friends of Sooke Parks Society, who joined forces with Parks and Environmental Services

Coordinator, Jessica Boquist, to tackle invasive species in Pineridge Park on Wednesday, October 16, 2024.

Armed with gloves, tools, and a deep commitment to preserving Sooke’s natural environment, volunteers spent the afternoon removing harmful species such as English Ivy and Himalayan blackberry, which threaten native plants and disrupt the local ecosystem.

Boquist expressed her gratitude, “The dedication and enthusiasm of our volunteers are what makes our parks and natural spaces thrive. This community effort not only helps protect biodiversity but also strengthens the connection between residents and their natural surroundings.”

The group made great strides in controlling the spread of invasive plants, pulling out roots and removing substantial amounts of holly and blackberry from the park. The volunteers’ teamwork and determination were evident as they worked together in the autumn drizzle to clear the area for native species to flourish.

These types of volunteer-led initiatives are key to Sooke’s ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability and park stewardship. The District looks forward to future collaborations with Friends of Sooke Parks Society and other local organizations in continuing this important work.

Upcoming Event: Spooky Pumpkin Walk at Pineridge Park

As part of an ongoing effort to engage the community and celebrate our natural spaces, residents are invited to participate in the Spooky Pumpkin Walk, hosted by Friends of Sooke Parks Society, at Pineridge Park on Wednesday, November 1, 2024. Bring your carved pumpkins and let them shine one last time! This family-friendly event will feature a lit-up pumpkin trail through the park, perfect for a fun, spooky evening for all ages. Pumpkins will be composted after the event.

Join us in celebrating community spirit, environmental sustainability, and the beauty of Pineridge Park—whether through volunteer efforts like invasive species removal or festive events like the Spooky Pumpkin Walk!

Pineridge Park is accessed from the main entrance at the 6600 block of Rhodonite Drive or from the path off Pineridge Place.

To discover more parks in Sooke, use the Sooke Parks Finder Map.