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 as 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.

w-full h-48 object-cover

Tool Inventory

Extratigator Classic with BigFoot plate

  • Total weight: ~14 lbs
  • Height: 48″
  • Jaw capacity: 2″
  • Minimum pull ratio: 12:1

Quantity available: 4

Removes most woody-stemmed plants up to 2" diameter. The BigFoot increases platform footprint and leverage while resisting sinking. Automatic opening clog-free jaws, foam grip, ratcheting design.

Extratigator Junior with BigFoot plate

  • Total weight: ~11 lbs
  • Height: 36.5″
  • Jaw capacity: 1.5″
  • Minimum pull ratio: 9:1

Quantity available: 3

Shorter handle, thinner material than the Classic. Recommended for plants under 1" diameter. Lightweight, clog-free jaws, ratcheting design.

Root Slayer Shovel

  • Total weight: ~6 lbs
  • Height: 44.5″
  • Blade: 13″

Quantity available: 2

A multi-purpose shovel, root hatchet, and root saw all in one. Great for blackberries, holly, and other deep-rooted invaders.

D-Handled Shovel

  • Total weight: 3.5 lbs
  • Height: 46″
  • Blade: 6″ wide tapering to 4.5″, 15″ tall

Quantity available: 3

Ergonomic handle, sharp blade, wide step plate. Great for cutting down and around roots. Lightweight yet strong.

Fiskars PowerGear Super Pruner/Loppers

  • Weight: 0.9 lbs
  • Length: 15″
  • Blade type: Bypass
  • Max cutting capacity: 1-1/4″ diameter

Quantity available: 2

Smaller and lighter than other loppers, reducing strain on hands, wrists, and muscles. Gears multiply leverage.

Fiskars Control Bypass Loppers

  • Weight: 1.8 lbs
  • Length: 24″
  • Blade type: Bypass
  • Max cutting capacity: 1-1/2″ diameter

Quantity available: 3

Designed for smooth, easy cuts at tough angles. Shock-absorbing bumpers eliminate jarring. Secure, comfortable grip.

Stihl Folding Pruning Saw

  • Weight: 6 oz
  • Length: 12″ open; 6″ blade
  • Blade type: 3-sided Japan teeth
  • Handle: rubber grip
  • Max cutting capacity: 6″ diameter

Quantity available: 3

Compact folding saw with curved chrome-plated Japanese steel blade. Cuts on the pull stroke. Lightweight and comfortable.

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 a Tool