Buckthorn is an invasive, non-native plant species that threatens Minnesota's natural resources. It spreads very quickly and out-competes native plants for nutrients, light and moisture. It can also degrade wildlife habitat, serve as a host for pests and contribute to erosion, among other things.  As a non-native plant, buckthorn interferes with natural ecosystems.

The city encourages residents to remove buckthorn from their property. By leaving it in your yard, particularly the female, berry-producing plants, there is a greater chance of it spreading. 

Small seedlings can be removed by hand or by using a hoe. For larger shrubs up to 2.5 inches in diameter, a weed wrench is available for use through the city. Please call 651-730-2740 to reserve a wrench.

Residents may drop off their buckthorn for free at Public Works, 1900 Hadley Avenue North, 7:30 AM to 3 PM, from spring through fall. For details, please email Oakdale Public Works or call 651-730-2740.

Annual Buckthorn Curbside Collection Program

Every fall, the city offers a complimentary buckthorn curbside collection program for residents. Watch for details in the Fall-Winter issue of the Oakdale Update newsletter.

Curbside Pickup Guidelines

• The pickup is restricted to only buckthorn .
• Piles should be no larger than 3.5 feet high, 3.5 feet wide, and up to 20 feet in length
• Piles need to be stacked with the cut ends aligned and to the curb.
• Piles must be accessible by a log loader truck and must be off of paved driveways.
• City Forester has the right to inspect and reject piles that don’t comply with the guidelines.
• Complete a collection waiver. Waivers must be filled out and received by the Friday before the scheduled collection date for pickup.