Something Garlic This Way Comes…
By the pricking of my thumbs (on stinging nettle and raspberry bushes), something wicked this way comes. This week we saw hordes of garlic mustard marching towards our preserves via deer trails, two tracks and old logging roads with no regard for the unsuspecting native plants which are disappearing one by one, nowhere to be found.
There were certainly victories to be had throughout the week; beautiful scenery, wildflower and wildlife sightings, and most importantly, over 700 acres of preserved land are now clear of garlic mustard by pulling more than 50 42-gallon bags!
As for the wildflowers; herb robert, wild sarsaparilla and white baneberry are in full bloom which always diverts my attention from the horrible GM (for a little while anyway).
We also saw a Blanding’s turtle, five deer and a racoon! (Sorry, I only have a photo of the turtle which is the coolest one in my opinion!) 
You can join in on the fun by participating in our upcoming events. This Wednesday, June 8th we will be pulling garlic mustard along the north end of the Dry Hill trail in Arcadia Dunes. Bring your bike to join me in riding the freshly invasive-free trail after our hard work! We will meet at the St. Pierre trailhead which is off of St. Pierre Rd (off of M22) from 10 to noon. our other events can be seen at our shiny new website www.gtrlc.org or through our partners at the CWMA http://www.garlic-mustard.org/calendar-of-events/ As always, the best view of the preserve may be off the trails so join me in scouting for this wicked invader, I’m out looking for the stuff just about every day. You can call me at 231-313-0232 or e-mail jthroop@gtrlc.org for details on where we’ll be scouting. Last but not least Thank you Paula Dreeszen and Sharon Studinger, your volunteer efforts are greatly appreciated!
