volunteer Spotlight
Keith Krosinsky
“I'd encourage anyone considering becoming a Weed Warrior Leader to pursue it!”
Keith Krosinsky recently hosted his first invasive plant removal event as a Weed Warrior leader. He has been a Stream Team Leader since October 2024 hosting a number of litter clean-up events since then. With some encouragement he pursued his certification to become a Weed Warrior Leader.
We wanted to learn what inspired him to further his commitment to Rock Creek Park. Read our interview below to learn more.
Interview with Keith
Keith at his first invasive removal as a Weed Warrior Leader.
What influenced you to become a Weed Warrior Leader with the Conservancy?
Before becoming a Weed Warrior Leader this past Spring I was actively volunteering as a Weed Warrior since 2023 and via group events starting in 2022. I live near the park, which is a natural treasure and critical green space for Washington, DC, and recreate there regularly, and that was a big reason I got involved as a volunteer in the first place and eventually became a leader. Weed Warrior work provides a great way to directly support the health of the park and area ecosystems, and leadership opens up even more opportunities to positively support the park by hosting group events. I also credit the supportive RCC staff, in particular Landrum Beard, who encouraged me to become a Weed Warrior Leader after I got my Stream Team Leader certification in 2024.
How was the experience of leading your first invasive removal event at Piney Branch?
It was a great time! I've hosted several events as a Stream Team leader since 2024 but Weed Warrior events are a different experience for a leader as you more actively monitor the work volunteers are doing to ensure only invasive plants are removed and the proper technique is being followed. We tackled second year garlic mustard during the event which was already at least a foot and half tall and flowering, so it was thankfully an easy target for the group. We were able to cover a lot of ground, and you can really see the difference the work made.
What has been the most rewarding part of being a Weed Warrior?
In my mind it's a tie between seeing improvements in the parts of the park that are being actively managed for invasive species such as trees free of vines or native flowers and shrubs taking hold, as well as the great community of other Weed Warriors assigned to the Piney Branch oasis who frequently work together to maintain the great progress that has been made in that particular area.
What would you say to someone who’s on the fence of becoming a Weed Warrior Leader?
I'd encourage anyone considering becoming a Weed Warrior Leader to pursue it! It's a great way to give back to your community, the environment, and helps support transferable skills like project management, event management, and public speaking.
Click here for more information about the Weed Warrior program.