Broombusters Coquitlam enters fourth season of action against Invasive Scotch Broom

As the vibrant yellow flowers of Scotch broom (Cytisus scoparius) begin to bloom across BC this spring, Coquitlam residents are again taking action against this highly aggressive invasive species. Since 2022, Broombusters Coquitlam has worked to reduce broom infestations in local parks and natural areas—and in 2025, the effort continues with renewed focus and growing community support.

“Our goal is long-term restoration of our native ecosystems,” says project lead Robbin Whachell, who founded the Coquitlam chapter after encountering broom pods exploding and throwing seeds on a local trail during the 2021 heat dome. “Over the past three years, we’ve cleared large infestations in areas like Mundy Park and the Coquitlam Crunch trail corridor. But broom is resilient, and regrowth is inevitable—especially after hot, dry summers. That’s why sustained, annual action is critical.”

Each mature Scotch broom plant can produce up to 18,000 seeds, which remain viable for over 30 years. As the seeds burst from pods in the summer heat, they spread rapidly and take over disturbed soils, crowding out native plants and increasing wildfire risk. This year, Broombusters Coquitlam is planning at least six community broom cuts, and the season has already kicked off with 11 volunteers working along the Crunch Trail. The group collaborates with the City of Coquitlam’s Natural Areas team, who assist with site scouting and removal of debris.

Unlike many invasive species, broom isn’t pulled—it’s cut low to the ground to avoid disturbing the soil, where dormant seeds often wait to germinate. The work is simple but rewarding, and events are open to the community. “It’s incredible to see how many people want to be part of something positive,” says Whachell. “The project not only helps the environment, but brings residents together. It’s hands-on action that’s making a real impact.”

In 2025, the project is also expanding efforts to recruit more volunteers and increase public awareness. Broom is a fire-prone plant that thrives in warmer, drier conditions—removing it improves community safety and boosts ecosystem resilience. The work also helps protect native and traditional food plants, pollinators, and biodiversity, aligning with broader climate, equity, and food security goals.

Broombusters originated in Qualicum Beach in 2006 with the now-familiar slogan “Cut Broom in Bloom.” Since then, the movement has grown to include 14 communities across Vancouver Island. Coquitlam became the first Lower Mainland city to join in 2022 and remains one of just two cities in the region actively tackling the species.

This year, Broombusters Coquitlam plans to return to several established sites for follow-up cuts, primarily Mundy Park, Glen Park, and the hydro line corridor along the Coquitlam Crunch trail. With much of the old growth removed, and as the plants become smaller and more tedious to remove, organizers hope to draw even larger groups to help get the job done.

“We invite everyone who wants to make a tangible, local environmental impact to join us,” says Whachell. “It’s good for our parks, our planet, and our people.”