Tool Library
Invasive Plant Removal Tool Lending Library
Our lending library was made possible by a generous grant from the Comox Valley Community Foundation. Why is it important to remove and replace aggressive non-native plants? Invasives such blackberries, broom, holly, and ivy outcompete native plant species, decreasing habitat and biodiversity of native flora and fauna. Local stewardship groups, including the team at MARS, put time and energy into removing invasive plants and replacing them with native species.
Tool Inventory
Extractigator Classic with BigFoot plate
Quantity available: 3
- Total weight: ~14 lbs
- Height: 48″
- Jaw capacity: 2″
- Minimum pull ratio: 12:1 (eg. apply 10 lbs to end of handle, and 120 lbs of pulling force is applied to plant)
This tool will remove most woody-stemmed plants from paper thin up to 2” in diameter. The BigFoot increases the platform foot print and leverage while resisting sinking into soil and adding stability. Great for sandy, rocky, or super-soft soil conditions.
Convenient features: automatic opening clog-free jaws, comfortable foam grip, ratcheting design.
Extractigator Junior with BigFoot plate
Quantity available: 3
- Total weight: ~11 lbs
- Height: 36.5″
- Jaw capacity: 1.5″
- Minimum pull ratio: 9:1 (eg. apply 10 lbs to end of handle, and 90 lbs of pulling force is applied to plant)
The Junior shares the same profile as the Classic but is made from thinner material with a shorter handle. The jaws of the Junior open from a complete close to 1.5” and is recommended for plants under 1” in diameter. Comes with the BigFoot plate.
Convenient features: automatic opening clog free jaws, lightweight, comfortable foam grip, ratcheting design.
Root Slayer Shovel
- Total weight: ~6 lbs
- Height: 44.5″
- Blade: 13″
Quantity available: 2
A multi-purpose shovel that is a compliment for the Extratigator. Think of it as a shovel, root hatchet, and root saw all in one tool. Helpful for blackberries, holly, and other deep rooted invaders.
D-Handled Shovel
Quantity available: 3
- Total weight: 3.5lbs
- Height: 46″
- Blade: 6″ wide tapering to 4.5″, 15″ tall
Ergonomic handle, sharp blade, wide step plate make this a great tool for cutting down and around and through roots. Light weight, easy to handle, yet strong.
Fiskars PowerGear Super Pruner/Loppers
Quantity available: 2
- Weight: .9 lbs
- Length: 15″
- Blade type: Bypass
- Maximum cutting capacity: 1-1/4″ diameter branches.
Smaller and lighter than other loppers, reducing strain on your hands, wrists and muscles. Gears multiply leverage.
Fiskars Control Bypass Loppers
Quantity available: 3
- Weight: 1.8 lbs
- Length: 24″
- Blade type: Bypass
- Maximum cutting capacity: 1-1/2″ diameter branches
Designed for smooth, easy cuts. Lightweight, shorter handles makes it easy to maneuver when cutting at tough angles. Shock-absorbing bumpers help eliminate the jarring. Secure, comfortable grip.
Stihl Folding Pruning Saw
Quantity available: 3
- Weight: 6 oz
- Length: 12″ open; 6″ blade
- Blade type: 3-sided Japan teeth
- Handle: rubber grip
- Maximum cutting capacity: 6″ diameter branches
Compact folding saw with a curved chrome-plated Japanese steel blade for cutting woody shrubs and trees. Cuts on the pull stroke. Lightweight, compact & comfortable.
Heavy-duty Gloves
Quantity available: 5
- Sizes: Medium, large.
Leather resists punctures by thorns.
Heavy-duty Tarps
Quantity available: 3
- Size: 8′ x 10′
Useful for hauling cut invasives out for disposal.
Collapsible Reusable Yard Waste Bags
- Volume: 72 gallons
- Height: 30″
- Carrying capacity: Diameter: 26″
- 150 lbs
- Maximum cutting capacity: 6″ diameter branches
Made of UV stabilized, tear-resistant, and water repellent fabric. Handles make it easy to carry invasives from an area.
Large Capacity Heavy-duty Bulk Bag
Quantity available: 1
- Measurements: 35″ (L) x 35″ (W) x 40″ (H)
- Volume: 200 gallons
- Carrying capacity: 2000 lbs
Large capacity, tough bag for dragging large amounts of invasives from an area for disposal. Open top, flat bottom
Borrowing Tools
This tool lending library is for the benefit of community members engaged in habitat stewardship in the Comox Valley and Campbell River. While we do not charge for tool borrowing, donations to MARS Wildlife Rescue are gratefully accepted.
If you have questions about the invasives removal tool lending library, please email habitatstewardship@marswildliferescue.com.
Request ToolsSupport Us
Donate Funds
Support wildlife through one time or monthly gifts, legacy giving, or adoption.
Donate FundsDonate Goods
See current and everyday needs and learn what items we can and cannot accept.
Donate Goods