Photo submitted to the Times Observer Event participants of the 2025 annual garlic mustard pull at the Buckaloons Recreation Area in the Allegheny National Forest.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service is hosting a public volunteer event in honor of Earth Day on Saturday, April 18, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Buckaloons Recreation Area in the Allegheny National Forest.

The event will feature an invasive plant removal effort, followed by a potluck lunch, and a wildflower walk with a plant biologist.

The day is an opportunity to work alongside forest service staff to improve forest health by removing garlic mustard, a highly invasive plant, originating from Europe and Asia. Garlic mustard spreads aggressively, outcompeting native plants for crucial resources. A single plant can produce over 7,000 seeds which remain viable in the soil for up to seven years. The plant disrupts quality foraging and nesting habitat as it is rarely consumed by wildlife due to its chemical defenses.

“For over 20 years, this event has contributed to a significant reduction of garlic mustard and other invasive species at Buckaloons. With the help of dedicated volunteers, these efforts work to increase biodiversity and support rare plants native to the area,” said April Moore, Allegheny National Forest non-native invasive plant program manager.

For the safety of all participants, ANF officials recommend bringing gloves and insect repellent, and suggest wearing weather-appropriate, long-sleeved workwear. Attendees are invited to bring a dish to share at the potluck lunch. Hamburgers and hot dogs will be provided.

For more information, contact April Moore at april.moore@usda.gov or 814-728-6186.