Scotch broom is native to central/southern Europe and the Middle East. It has been introduced to Chile, India, Iran, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and North America. It has become widely naturalized from California to British Columbia. 

Introduced to Vancouver Island in 1850, broom grows prolifically in southwestern British Columbia throughout the Garry oak range and is also found in patches on the Queen Charlotte Islands and in some inland sites.

Scotch Broom Invasive Species Information here.
2021 Broom Removal Flyer

2021 Scotch Broom Removal Program Schedule

Kick-off: Saturday, May 1st
Broom drop-off dates: Saturday mornings, May 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29
Ends: Saturday, May 29

Bring your cut Broom to the drop-off location behind the Community Gardens, 729 Finlayson Arm Road, any Saturday morning in May, 8:00 am - noon. Volunteers will be on hand to help unload. Call Paul at 250-478-7885 if you need help.

Broombusters.org Tip Sheet

Highlands Community Broom Removal Program Handout

Watch video on cutting broom here.

BE SAFE - BE SEEN WHILE BROOM BASHING

With the Highlands Broom Bash in full swing until the end of May, just a reminder to be safe on our roadsides while doing your cutting. One of the best ways to be seen is to wear a safety vest, as master broom basher Paul Henry shows in the picture. At the very least, wear bright clothing. If you have safety cones that you can set up behind your parked vehicle, so much the better. Use your eyes and ears when approaching the road edge – watch and listen for approaching vehicles. The next opportunity to drop off your cut broom is this Saturday morning between 8:00 am and noon. Use the entrance between the Highlands Community Hall and the Community Gardens, Finlayson Arm Road near Millstream Road. Thanks for all your time and effort – it really helps!