“Bittersweet and Sweet” a success

On August 24, Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation, 1 Mississippi and the Iowa Department of Natural Resources collaborated for the “Bittersweet and Sweet” event near Dubuque, Iowa.

The organizations recruited 25 hard-working volunteers to help remove oriental bittersweet. Together the group made great progress removing the invasive species from Mines of Spain Recreation Area, INHF's first major project.

In three hours the volunteers and staff gave approximately 75 hours of “people power.”

“I am impressed by the amount of work done and even more so the increased awareness about oriental bittersweet and invasive species,” said Mary Runkel, INHF Volunteer Coordinator.

Runkel believes the local community contributed to the success of the event.

“I was amazed at the community support in the Dubuque area and the number of people dedicated to improving Iowa's natural resources. A lot of people helped promote the event,” said Runkel.

After a day in the field, it was time for some sweets at an ice cream social!

“There were many happy people, especially when the ice cream was served!” said Runkel.

See the progress made at “Bittersweet and Sweet” below: