Invasive Species Management @ Rifle Range Nature Park (08 November 2025)

The "Friends of Bukit Timah Forest" (FoBTF) is a community-led initiative that seeks to promote the conservation, appreciation, and stewardship of the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve (BTNR) and its adjacent nature parks.

Our Invasive Species Management (ISM) sessions aims to protect our native forest in Bukit Timah Nature Reserve and Rifle Range Nature Park through the research, physical removal, and building public awareness of invasive species.

Our main opponent is Dioscorea sansibarensis (also known as the Zanzibar Yam or the Batman Plant), a highly invasive, non-native weed that poses a threat to our native biodiverity. This toxic, non-edible yam grows rapidly, climbing to the canopy and suffocating native trees. On the forest floor, it spreads aggressively, preventing native saplings from taking root. As an introduced species, the Zanzibar Yam has no natural predators, leaving our native trees defenseless against its spread.

Participants will help with the physical removal of Dioscorea from Rifle Range Nature Park (RRNP). This includes the removal of aerial bulbils, young Dioscorea, and underground tubers (up to 15kg). Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult.

Please take note

• Individual registration is COMPULSORY
• Participants MUST wear COVERED SHOES; without this, you will not be able to participate.
• We recommend wearing long-sleeved shirts / arm-protection sleeves and long pants.
• Bring at least 1 litre of drinking water - you will need it!
• Bring your own gloves, if you have a pair (we will supply otherwise)
• Bring a change of clothes and footwear in case you get drenched or dirty after the activity

Further details will be emailed to registered participants at least 2 days before the session.