Uprooter (Buckthorn Puller) Loan Program

To assist with the control of invasive buckthorn within the watershed district, RPBCWD has two Uprooter tools available for loan with a $250 deposit each (check, cash, or money order). A deposit will be returned to you when you drop off the Uprooter in good condition. If you do not return the Uprooter or return it with significant damage, we will keep the deposit for use toward replacement.

 How big is the Uprooter?

We have the standard Uprooter available for loan. The standard version weighs 15 pounds, stands 52 inches tall, and has a jaw capacity of 2.25 inches.

HOW DOES AN UPROOTER WORK?

The Uprooter is a large lever that allows you to pull buckthorn up by the root. Visit TheUprooter.com to learn more about basic operation of and techniques for using the Uprooter.

Where should I not use an Uprooter?

The Uprooter is not intended for use in water or mud. Because of the risk or erosion, avoid using an Uprooter on steep slopes; use an alternative method of buckthorn control such as cutting and stump treatment.

WHO CAN BORROW AN UPROOTER?

An Uprooter may be borrowed by a resident or organization that plans to remove buckthorn within the watershed district boundary (see map). When on loan, the Uprooter must stay within the watershed district.

FOR HOW MANY DAYS MAY I BORROW AN UPROOTER? CAN I BORROW MORE THAN ONE?

An individual household can borrow an Uprooter for up to 10 days. An organization (HOA, lake association, etc.) may reserve one or two Uprooters, $250 each, for up to 10 days.

HOW DO I RESERVE AN UPROOTER?

Submit the reservation request form below. We will reach out to you to confirm availability and schedule a pickup time.

WHERE AND WHEN CAN I PICK UP THE UPROOTER? CAN I JUST STOP BY?

The Uprooter may be picked up during regular business hours, Monday-Friday, from the RPBCWD office located at 18681 Lake Dr E, Chanhassen. We may be able to accommodate a weekday evening pickup/dropoff if staff are already present in office due to a board or other meeting. Due to staff fieldwork and remote schedules, please reach out in advance so we can make sure someone is available to meet you.

Who may I contact with questions?

Contact Liz Forbes at Lforbes@rpbcwd.org or 952-607-6481.

Reservation Request Form

After you submit the form, staff will reach out to confirm availability and schedule pickup. When you pickup the Uprooter, bring a $250 deposit per Uprooter in the form of check, cash, or money order.