TUSCALOOSA, Ala. - The University of Alabama Arboretum will hold “Privetpullooza,” an event that will help arboretum staff remove invasive plant species from the facilities, on Friday, Feb. 8, from 1-5 p.m. and Saturday, Feb. 9, from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. at the UA Arboretum.

Community members are invited to join staff and other volunteers in the event. The Arboretum is located in Tuscaloosa just off Loop Road and 15th Street, 3.5 miles east of the UA campus.

The Arboretum works to develop a collection of the entire native Alabama flora, but non-native species, like privet, are unwelcome in the collection.

“Privet is so prolific and adaptable to our climate and environment that it is taking over habitats and displacing our native communities,” Mary Jo Modica, horticulturist for the University Arboretum, said. “I want people to be aware that there is a problem with invasive exotic plants. By inviting community members out to assist in this ecological restoration effort, they become familiar with the Arboretum’s work to protect native communities. Such efforts as Privetpullooza help rebuild a diverse local ecosystem from which the entire community can learn and enjoy.”

Volunteers interested in Privetpullooza should wear work clothes and gloves and be prepared to get dirty.

For more information, contact Trevor Harris or Crescent Smith at 205/553-3278 during normal business hours.