Weed Warriors of Teaneck Creek Conservancy

Like many conservation areas around the nation, Teaneck Creek Conservancy was overrun by non-native invasive plant species which threaten a wide range of native vegetation prior to its ecological restoration (2020-2022). Today Teaneck Creek Conservancy is focused on managing our invasive species to prevent them from monopolizing our newly restored park grounds. Next to habitat loss, invasive species are the single largest cause of species extinction worldwide. In preparation for the restoration, site studies identified over 245 plant species on our grounds, with over 90 of them classified as non-native invasive plants.

Maintaining a comprehensive and effective plan to control exotic weeds on our site is a critical component of our restoration plan. Teaneck Creek Conservancy maintains the biodiversity of this eco-system through the efforts of an all-volunteer force called the Weed Warriors.

Since the trails first opened over 20 years ago, they have made incredible progress an continue to be an active presence in the park.

The Teaneck Creek Conservancy’s Weed Warrior program is modeled on the similar program created by the Nature Conservancy.  A Weed Warrior “Hit List” was established and a strategic plan was outlined. After an initial training, volunteers work in groups to maintain an invasive-free buffer zone on either side of the park’s trails. The Weed Warriors meet every Wednesday weather permitting from 9:00 am-11:00am year-round.

Current work includes:

• Supplemental invasive species management. As part of the post-restoration efforts, Bergen County has maintained an external contractor to lead invasive species management while the new native plants are establishing themselves.

• Trash pick up. After storms, recycling and refuse are swept in stormwaters into the park.

• Trash collection. Weed Warriors collect trash from the various trash receptacles around the park and transport it to the park entrances for pick up.

• Tree protection. Deer damage from browse an antler rubbing is a serious danger to young trees. Our Weed Warriors are responsible for caging young trees as well as readjusting and removing as necessary.

• Storm damage and creek blockages. Sometimes, storms bring down limbs that block trails or the flow of Teaneck Creek. Our volunteers help clear trails and remove the log jams from the Creek. as needed.

• Garden care. Occasionally the Weed Warriors will pitch in in caring for the gardens at the Creek including the pollinator garden, wetland demonstration garden, and native plant gardens. Individuals looking to exclusively garden, should look into our Garden Volunteer opportunities.

• Supporting group and public volunteer days. When groups visit to tackle larger projects in the park, our knowledgeable Weed Warriors help lead smaller groups of volunteers in various tasks. This is typically outside the typical Weed Warrior meeting window.

Weed Warriors is currently co-led by George Reskakis and Shelly Frattarola.