City staff, students work together to clear invasive species

City of Overland Park staff and Shawnee Mission South High School students teamed up this week to clear invasive plants from the Shawnee Mission Environmental Science Lab along Indian Creek.

The City’s forestry and horticulture crews are constantly working to remove invasive species, especially along stream corridors and watersheds. Teams of staff and students worked together to remove bush honeysuckle, which can limit the amount of sunlight that reaches seedlings of native plants, inhibiting their growth. 

“It’s a really good way to get outside and start doing the work. I’m glad we moved forward with this project,” said Eliana Wilson, Shawnee Mission High School junior. 

Students are learning about important environmental issues, like how invasive species can degrade waterways, outcompete native plants and limit recreational opportunities. This project provided a unique opportunity for high school students and City staff to engage in conversations regarding sustainability and environmental jobs and roles.

“I hope the students can really see the immediate impact of the work they’re doing,” said City Forester Bailey Patterson. “It’s an ongoing effort, so hopefully we keep this partnership and come out here again next year to tackle anything that grows back.”