Several local groups are hosting English Ivy demonstration and removal events as the species poses risks to local plants and trees.
Jan 16, 2026 1:59 pm EST | Updated Jan 16, 2026 2:07 pm EST
LOWER MERION TOWNSHIP, PA — This winter, several local groups in Lower Merion Township are coming together to tackle an ongoing environmental issue: English Ivy.
This invasive species, brought to the U.S. in the 1700s, harms tree canopy by climbing and smothering trees, officials said. Ivy blocks sunlight, inhibiting trees from completing photosynthesis.
In the winter, snow and ice accumulate on ivy and weigh down limbs.
To help residents learn how to tackle English Ivy in the community, The Friends of Shortridge Park, Friends of Penn Wynne Park, Friends of West Mill Creek Park, and Haverford College Arboretum are hosting several English Ivy removal demonstrations and workdays this winter.
The first event is an English Ivy demonstration day on Sunday at Shortridge Park. It will take place from 10 a.m. to noon. Register online here.
An English Ivy removal volunteer workday will be held from 10 a.m. to noon Monday in Shortridge Park as part of the township’s Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service. Register to attend Monday’s event online here.
Additional demonstration days will take place on Jan. 25 at West Mill Creek Park and Feb. 7 at Penn Wynne Park. A final volunteer workday will be hosted by Haverford College Arboretum on Feb. 13 from 10 a.m. to noon.
Learn more about these events online here, or email dannmer@gmail.com for more information.