Re: 'Broom is here to stay, live with it' (Letters, PQB News June 11)
Yes, it is known that broom seeds last for more than 30 years. That is the reason for cutting the broom in bloom before it goes to seed.
I only hope the letter was written “tongue in cheek” in order to raise awareness by prompting responses of the benefits to the land and the people by broom control.
Here’s a partial list of the facts and problems with leaving broom to spread and displace native vegetation:
Broom plants contain a highly flammable oil that when ignited burns everything nearby be it forests or homes. Its pollen is one of the very worst offenders for anyone with allergies. It displaces our native vegetation. It is not used in any way by any native wildlife.
The enormous effort to control this dangerous, invasive monster absolutely supports humans, wildlife, nature and is extremely important for fire prevention.
The proof is in a walk from the end of Shelly Road to the Englishman Estuary where the Arrowsmith Naturalists have been removing broom for many years. The abundance of wildflowers and birds is noticeable compared to when broom was the dominant plant throughout the estuary.
There are many areas of highway where the Broombusters have successfully controlled the invasion of broom to the great benefit of humans and the environment.
I am so very grateful to the people with the energy and determination that work so hard to make our world, especially this Island a safer, more natural paradise.
Thank you.
Gary Murdock
Forest Technologist (Retired)
Parksville
