Forum Nature Area to be closed Sept. 4-7 for invasive species removal

Columbia Parks and Recreation will close Forum Nature Area, 2701 Forum Blvd., to the public from Sept. 4-7 to complete an invasive species removal project. Crews will be working to remove invasive, non-native Callery pear and Sericea lespedeza from the wetland areas.

Sericea is an invasive plant that is currently flowering. It must be mowed prior to going to seed so that its growth is controlled. The removal of the Sericea and Callery pear helps Parks and Recreation meet its goals of restoring healthy, native ecosystems in the park system.

Most of the invasive species removal will be done with large, brush mowing equipment.  For the safety of the public, Forum Nature Area will remain closed until operations are completed. Park users are encouraged to visit nearby nature areas during this time, such as Bonnie View Nature Sanctuary, 3300 Rollins Road, and Grindstone Nature Area, 2011 Old Highway 63 South.  

For more information, call Parks and Recreation at 573.874.7460.