Northshore YMCA summer Camp Teens have come one day each week  to volunteer in North Creek Forest, from June 26 to Aug. 2.

They have donated more than 600 hours of community service. Activities included removal of an infestation of English Ivy, a job requiring strength and determination to pull thick vines off the trees and out of the ground. Supported by Friends of North Creek Forest, an army of teens tackled the ivy and cleared a walking path through the area.

Campers have been willing stewards of the restoration projects completed by UW Bothell Restoration Ecology Network. The newly planted area along 112th Ave NE has been watered each week during these hot summer days by dedicated Y Teens. These young people have also been sleuths of the ever invasive blackberry and morning glory vine that outgrow native plants if left unchecked for the summer. Vines and canes have been cut and pulled to free small trees, shrubs and grasses. The area was then mulched by the same volunteers.