Eugene Students Take on Invasive Plants in 24-Hour ‘Weed-a-Thon’ to Restore Local Habitat

High school students in Eugene, Oregon, are making a hands-on impact on the environment by participating in a 24-hour conservation challenge aimed at removing harmful invasive plants.

Students Lead Habitat Restoration Effort

Around 40 students from Twin Rivers Charter School took part in the sixth annual Weed-a-Thon, held at Logjam State Park. The event began at 9 a.m. Friday and continued for a full day as part of the school’s outdoor-focused curriculum.

The initiative is designed to combine education with real-world environmental action, giving students the opportunity to directly improve local ecosystems.

Targeting Harmful Invasive Species

This year’s project focused on removing aggressive plant species such as Scotch broom and Himalayan blackberry, both of which can overtake native vegetation and disrupt natural habitats.

Educators say eliminating these invasive plants helps restore ecological balance by allowing native species to regrow and thrive.

Hands-On Learning With Real Impact

The school emphasizes career and technical education, with a strong focus on outdoor conservation and environmental stewardship. Projects like the Weed-a-Thon are meant to build practical skills in fields such as forestry and habitat restoration.

Vice Principal David Knox noted that these experiences help students gain confidence while exploring potential career paths in environmental work.

Students Reflect on the Experience

Participants described the event as both rewarding and empowering. Many said the visible changes they made to the park gave them a sense of accomplishment and strengthened their connection to nature.

The collaborative effort also helped students bond with classmates while contributing positively to their community.

Building Skills and Community Awareness

Beyond environmental benefits, the Weed-a-Thon encourages teamwork, responsibility, and awareness about ecological challenges. By actively restoring local green spaces, students gain a deeper understanding of conservation efforts and their importance.