Can speedy volunteers keep up with the mile-a-minute weed?

The state Department of Conservation and Recreation is going to give it the college try: It's seeking volunteers to help pull the fast-growing invasive weed in Fowl Meadow, part of the Blue Hills Reservation, Jennifer Forman Orth reports.

She says some 40 acres of the meadow, home to several rare and endangered species, is now covered by our version of kudzu. There are pulling sessions this Thursday and Friday mornings, with more planned (call 617-981-0817 for more info). Bring gloves: The vine has barbed stems.