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
--Results and Benefits
Site Biodiversity
Education and Outreach
Project Participants
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Restoration Strategy The project strategy involves the reintroduction of native plant species whose deep roots will help anchor the banks and control stream erosion and sedimentation. The project also concentrates on the recovery of savanna and prairie ecosystems. Plants will be deployed to: § fascillitate water quality enhancement of the surface flows passing through the stream, § create a naturalized vegetative buffer along the corridor, § increase infiltration and groundwater recharge, § enhance savanna recovery, § establish a “prairie garden” and § create an attractive visual setting showcasing the beauty of colorful native flora. Why we went with mature plants and prairie sod communities instead of seeds. “The decision to use transplants and sod communities was made in the interest of seed conservation. An early study by a landscape architect indicated that seeding rates recommended for restoration were greatly in excess of seed availability.” -- Dr. Darrel Murray 
video photo by Valerie Spale Because of the seed shortage, Dr. Murray gathered select native seeds at Wolf Road Prairie and germinated seedlings at the University of Illinois at Chicago greenhouse. In this controlled environment there would be a higher survival rate for the limited seeds. |
