Noxious weed removal at DEN Open Space
Hand-pull invasive mullein and thistle across 50 acres near Denver International Airport. Staff teach plant ID; you clear the way for native species. Age 10+.
Why we picked this
Hand-pulling invasive mullein and thistle across 50 acres near DIA — staff teach plant identification on the spot, then you get to work clearing space for the natives.
This half-day project runs from 9am to noon on the open space north of the DEN parking lot, targeting two invasive species: Common Mullein and Thistle. VOC staff will teach you to identify both plants and demonstrate the correct hand-pulling technique (catching them in the rosette stage, before they seed). Then you spread out and pull.
The work is genuinely satisfying — you can see the cleared area grow as you go, and the native plants that take over are much better for wildlife and the local ecosystem. No tools needed beyond gloves; VOC provides what’s required. Age 10 and older welcome.
Registration closes May 18. Wear sun protection, layers for the morning, and closed-toe shoes.