It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year to REMOVE INVASIVE BUCKTHORN

Buckthorn is an invasive shrub that's found throughout most of North American forests. In the late 1800’s buckthorn was imported from Europe. It was intended to be used as a hedgerow species because of its durability. While this goal was indeed accomplished, buckthorn began to spread uncontrollably to natural areas, such as forest preserves and prairies. Today buckthorn is classified as a noxious weed in various northern states and importing or transplanting buckthorn is considered illegal.

Did you know that Riverwoods has a cost-share program to help remove buckthorn from your property?  This program helps improve the ecological health of the woodlands by removing invasive shrubs such as common and glossy buckthorn, burning bush, Japanese barberry, honeysuckle, and sugar maple or ash tree saplings. Buckthorn removal allows desirable native species to thrive.

Winter is an excellent time to remove buckthorn because it's easy to spot. Experts recommend waiting until the ground is frozen to minimize damage to existing good plants.  Please don't forget that removing trees or shrubs greater than 1.5" in diameter requires a Tree Removal Permit.

The $100 fee for the Invasive Shrub Removal Cost-Share Program must be submitted along with your application. Payments can be made via credit card over the phone (a 3% service charge applies) or mail a check written out to the "Village of Riverwoods." Additionally, the Village Hall vestibule drop box is always open. 

* Prior to submitting your application, please be sure you have previously applied for an Ecological Consultation and have received program eligibility approval from the Village Ecologist.