Weed Warriors 2026 Recap: Hard Work is Paying Off

By Chris Kubiak, Restoration & Management Committee member

While our final session was rained out, our third summer season of Weed Warriors wrapped up at the end of August after another productive year! With 11 volunteers participating across the season, our focus was continuing to clear out populations of burdock and yellow/white sweet clover in the northern expansion of the Conservancy. By knocking back these relatively aggressive, non-native species, it gives our platinum mix of prairie plants a better opportunity to thrive. 

The Weed Warrior program makes possible an effective combination of larger, less precise methods such as mowing, and the more focused hand work of the weeding team to cover a large area while being mindful of desirable plants and respectful of sensitive bird nesting areas.

While there were still plenty of invasives to tackle this season, there was both a noticeable decrease from 2025 and a visible increase in the overall diversity across this newly restored prairie. Seeing the hard work pay off makes this a rewarding program to be part of, particularly with the camaraderie that comes with working together as a group over the season. One of our team, Paul, even wrote us a theme song this year!

Regardless of your age and experience level, if you are looking for a hands-on way to contribute to the continued restoration of Pheasant Branch Conservancy, get some exercise, and have some fun, consider becoming a Weed Warrior in 2027. Keep an eye on our website next spring for more information.