Third annual Richmond Invasive Species Awareness Week to kick off with multiple activities

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- Friends of the James River Park's third annual Richmond Invasive Species Awareness Week will kick off in Pony Pasture on Sunday with several nature-based activities to enjoy.

Invasive species, which the week raises awareness about, are non-native plants, animals, or pathogens that cause environmental harm, economic losses, or harm to humans, according to the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR).

The third annual Richmond Invasive Species Awareness Week, organized by Friends of the James River Park, will kick off at Pony Pasture on Sunday, Feb. 22, with the following events and activities throughout the day:

• 1 p.m.: Invasive species removal volunteer event, with advanced registration required
• 1:15 p.m.: Guided nature walk led by Joey Thompson of DCR
• 2 p.m.: Guided nature walk led by Kevin Heffernan of DCR
• Throughout: Chat with Kristi Orcutt of RVA Goats to learn about the benefits of using sheep and goats to control invasive plants.

Organizers said the event is family-friendly and open to all ages. Registration is only required for the invasive species removal event at 1 p.m.

Attendees can park at the Pony Pasture Parking Lot located at 7310 Riverside Drive.

Sunday's events kick off a week of more volunteer opportunities, educational walks and more. To view the full schedule, visit Friends of the James River Park's calendar.