Better at Bald Knob

Blue Ridge Foothills and Lakes (BRFAL) members and Jimmy Francis of DCR won a small victory against privet at Bald Knob Natural Area Preserve in Rocky Mount this week.  

BRFAL members spent a cold morning removing the invasive plant from East Court Street's northern side using loppers and saws. To prevent regrowth, they painted the stumps with herbicide. They also cleared trash from the roadside and removed barbed wire fencing. 

Despite the chilly start, the day turned sunny and rewarding. Their efforts saved native plants like redbuds, black cherries, and hackberries smothered by privet thickets. Upcoming tasks involve further privet removal, as privet disrupts native ecosystems, choking native flora and fauna. 

Thanks to these members, things are looking better at Bald Knob!

For more information on Bald Knob Natural Area Preserve, visit 

Bald Knob Natural Area Preserve (virginia.gov)

For more information on the damaging effects of privet on natural areas, visit: 

fslisi.pdf (virginia.gov)