Posted Date: April 18, 2026

Tags: Public Event  

May is Invasive Species Action Month! Help us prevent new invasive species from establishing in the Fraser Valley. 

Join us May 23rd at Fishtrap Creek Park, Abbotsford to pull out Italian arum. This is the only known population of this species on public land in the entire Fraser Valley. We can get rid of these species before they establish in our region!

No experience necessary. Tools and gloves will be provided. 

A bit about the plant:

Italian arum (Arum italicum) is a popular horticultural plant found that has escaped some gardens. This plant can shade out small native plants and keep other plants from establishing. It is also poisonous to eat and the sap can cause skin irritation (we’ll have gloves for everyone to wear). 

Meeting Location:

Fishtrap Creek Park, Abbotsford

Meet at the northern parking lot, near the playground (Google maps link)

Date:

Saturday, May 23rd 10:00am - 12:00pm

Event Information:

We will meet by the northern parking lot in Fishtrap Creek Park. From there we will walk a short distance (8 minutes, 500m) to the Italian arum site. 

We’ll talk about invasive species in general and the species that aren’t yet widely established in the Fraser Valley and the vital role that early management can play. We’ll go over how to remove this invasive species and safety precautions to take. 

From there, it’s removal time! We’ll be digging up Italian arum corms and sifting them out of the soil for disposal. 

What to Bring/Wear:

• Water
• Sturdy closed toe shoes
• Long pants and long sleeves (Italian arum can irritate skin with exposure, covering up is a good idea)
• Tools and gloves will be provided, but if you want to bring your own you are more than welcome to! 
• An interest in protecting the Fraser Valley from invasive species!

Contact

For more information or other questions, reach out to erica@fviss.ca.