Most weed control in natural areas is done in a very straight forward labour intensive manner. Pesticides can have harmful effects in our environment and to any non-target species that could be affected. Thus, weed control in natural areas is done mostly by hand pulling of the weeds. In some situations mowing can also be used as a form of weed control.

Removal of non-native woody species such as European Buckthorn requires a different approach. For buckthorn control methods include girdling, cutting then removing and pesticide injection. Girdling is the cutting and removal of bark encircling the tree to a width of 2 to 3 cm. This method reduces the circulation of the nutrients in the tree, essentially starving the tree. The other method of cutting then removing the tree is cutting the tree stems at the root collar and removing the debris. This method works effectively if accomplished twice a year for several consecutive years. Injection of pesticide delivers a small amount of pesticide directly to the tree without harming any non-target species around it.