The article Limit the Spread of Invasive Species on the Bruce Trail listed numerous ways Bruce Trail users can play a role. This post will focus on how to use one of those methods—Boot Brush Station—to limit their spread.
Invasive plant species are those that have become established outside of their natural range and have a negative impact on the environment, economy and/or human health where they are introduced. Trail users inadvertently transport seeds from one ecosystem to another when these opportunistic organisms hitchhike on footwear, pets, and gear. Once introduced, they quickly become established and compete for light, nutrients, and water, usurping the resources native plants need to grow and thrive. By degrading natural areas, they pose a threat to habitats, agriculture, and forest regeneration.
Benefits of Boot Brush Stations
A study conducted by North American Invasive Species Management Association (NAISMA) sampled dirt taken from boot brushes and compared it with dirt along the path. The seed communities differed significantly between samples, suggesting that boot brushes remove invasive species seeds.
How to use:
- Use before and after trail use.
- Hold on to the top of the stand. While you’re there, read the information about local invasive species.
- Place one foot between the bristles and move it back and forth.
- Clean mud, dirt, debris, seeds, and burs off all footwear surfaces, including laces.
- Repeat for your other foot.
Boot Brush Maintenance
 Trail users who notice that Boot Brush stations have become worn, damaged, or in need of maintenance should email the Land Steward Director so that repairs can be made.
 Trail Conservancy Project
In the Spring of 2023, Baffin, maker of cold-climate footwear, in partnership with the Bruce Trail Conservancy, announced the Trail Conservancy Project to limit the spread of invasive species. Baffin generously committed to building 100 eco-friendly Boot Brush Stations for placement along the trail over the next five years. This year’s annual Earth Day Boot Brush Station Build produced 40 stations, doubling last year’s production. Watch this year’s build here.
Conclusion
Use Boot Brush stations before entering and leaving the trail whenever you see them. The five stations that will be installed later this season at trail heads in Dufferin Hi-Land are a fantastic start. However, this still leaves plenty of opportunity to spread invasive species along the fifty-four kilometers of trail in our section. They also only address footwear. It’s a good idea to carry a lint roller or hand-held brush to brush off footwear, gear, and pets before and after each trail use.
Resources:
Baffin and Bruce Trail Conservancy Launch Trail Conservancy Project
