Restoring Balance at Folly Farm: MAR’s Invasive Species Removal Project

MAR recently wrapped up our 3-part Invasive Species Removal Series at Folly Farm Nature Preserve in Safety Harbor, where our volunteers worked hard to restore native habitat and protect local biodiversity.

Over the course of the project, we removed 5,136 pounds of invasive species, including Primrose Willow, Arrowheads, and Castor Bean. These plants can spread rapidly, outcompeting native vegetation for sunlight and nutrients and disrupting the natural balance of the ecosystem.

The three events, each held two weeks apart on October 4, October 18, and November 1, were intentionally scheduled to target invasive plants aggressively before they could regrow or reseed. This method helps ensure that root systems are weakened over time and prevents new growth from taking hold.

Together, volunteers cleared dense overgrowth around the wetland areas, revealing open ground where native plants can thrive once again.

The effort at Folly Farm represents more than just the removal of plants; it’s about restoring balance to a local ecosystem. By removing invasive species, we are giving native flora and fauna a chance to return and flourish.

We’re so grateful to Keep Pinellas Beautiful, the City of Safety Harbor, Hyppo, and Harbor Dish for their continued support and collaboration on this project. Their shared commitment makes work like this possible.

To everyone who joined us across the three phases, thank you for your dedication, energy, and care. Because of your hands-on work, Folly Farm is one step closer to becoming the healthy, resilient ecosystem it’s meant to be.

We look forward to continuing our restoration efforts at Folly Farm in 2026! In the meantime, stay tuned for other events and ways to get involved in protecting and restoring Florida’s natural spaces.