NATIVE ECOSYSTEM RESTORATION
History of the Restoration Site
Role of Buffer Sites in Preserving Biodiversity
Project Goals and Purpose
Restoration Strategy and Methods
--Strategy
--Methods
--Before and After
Photos
Site Biodiversity
Education and Outreach
Project Participants
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Prairie Triangle Stream Corridor Savanna Prairie Garden Savanna Over a dozen 100-plus year old oak trees are found on the western 2-acres of 10 Hickory Lane. These trees appeared in early surveyor maps as part of a savanna ecosystem. For decades the oaks and hickories lived with a turf grass understory which bore no resemblance to the original landscape. Mowing continually set back the growth of spring ephemerals, wildflowers, grasses and sedges of the savanna. Mowing also set back the growth of invasive woody species and weeds such as buckthorn, dogwood, multiflora rose, garlic mustard, Queen Anne's lace and thistle. When mowing ceased, both the native flora and invasive species began to grow. To control the invasion of alien brush and weeds, a presecibed burn was administered. Because native plants are both fire resistent and fire dependent, this technology is essential for their growth, flowering, seed production and health. The prescribed burn was followed by selective brush removal, herbacide application and weed control. Garlic mustard continues to be a problem and requires hand pulling each spring as this student is doing in the photo below. 
video photo by Valerie Spale |
