More than 35 volunteers came together at Seaview Park on Sunday, November 30, for a hands-on habitat restoration activity organized by the Lower Mainland Green Team in partnership with the City of Port Moody. The event ran from 9:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. and marked the Green Team’s final community stewardship activity of 2025.
According to a press release from Green Teams of Canada, the initiative attracted strong community interest, with 55 people registered and a growing waitlist. The event aimed to connect residents with nature and each other through direct environmental action.
Volunteers worked under sunny skies—after preparing for a “rain or shine” activity—to remove 10 cubic metres of invasive plants, including Himalayan blackberry, English ivy, laurel, and holly. That’s roughly 62 bathtubs worth of vegetation, according to organizers. Their work helped protect native plants like salmonberry and saved several trees from being smothered by invasive growth.
The activity began with a welcome from Acting Mayor Kyla Knowles, who thanked volunteers for contributing to the city’s ongoing efforts to preserve local green spaces. “This is not just about removing plants,” she said. “It’s about connecting people to their community and caring for the environment we all share.”
Participants ranged widely in age and experience—many volunteering for the first time. They were provided with tools, gloves, educational instruction, and snacks for a safe and enjoyable experience. The event was designed to be family-friendly and accessible, emphasizing inclusion and hands-on learning. Volunteer Jordan L. described the day as deeply fulfilling. “Seeing the difference we made in clearing out the invasive plants was very rewarding,” they said. “It’s satisfying to know we’re giving native species the space to grow and flourish.”
This year’s effort built on restoration work completed in 2024, when volunteers first cleared invasive growth in the same area. Since then, the City of Port Moody has planted hundreds of native plants in those restored sections. Volunteers expressed excitement at seeing the area’s transformation and contributing to its ongoing recovery.
In appreciation for their efforts, volunteers received native pollinator seed packs from the City and eco-friendly personal care items donated by Lush, a long-time supporter of Green Teams of Canada’s environmental initiatives.
The Lower Mainland Green Team, a program of the charity Green Teams of Canada, promotes community engagement through hands-on environmental action. Its activities include invasive species removal, native planting, and litter cleanups—all aimed at fostering environmental stewardship and community well-being. Organizers thanked the City of Port Moody’s Parks, Recreation, and Environment Department for partnering on the event and supporting the initiative. The Green Team will resume local activities in February 2026, continuing its mission to connect people with nature and each other.
For more information or to volunteer, residents can contact Max Muehlen, Program Manager at Green Teams of Canada, here.
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