Invasive Removal & Forest Restoration Project Recap!
We had a record number of volunteers help us address a 4-acre section of Kennedy Forest at our 24th annual Invasive Species Removal & Forest Restoration Day on Nov. 4.
Over the last decade, vines strangled young trees in the forest as thickets of bush honeysuckle, European mock orange and white mulberry competed with native white oaks. This site also had other challenges, including a wetland in the center, steep inclines and a dragging distance of up to 190 feet in some areas.
But the weather was on our side, and a record-breaking 175 volunteers were in high spirits as we removed over 68 cubic yards of chipped tree saplings and vines. Volunteers also created five-foot "windows" to mitigate Carolina buckthorn, Chinese wisteria, and other vine's ability to re-establish themselves in this area.
“Thank you everyone who came out and to all who continue to support the restoration efforts in Forest Park. ”
This kind of restoration work, including the supplies and staff labor needed for volunteer events, is only possible thanks to our Forest Park Forever supporters. To keep our work going, consider becoming a member or renewing your membership today.
Invasive Removal & Forest Restoration Project Day Details!
WHERE: Kennedy Forest (park on Government Drive)
WHO: This Park Project Day is appropriate for individuals, small volunteer groups and families with children over the age of 12. Children under the age of 18 must be supervised by an adult at all times.
WHAT TO WEAR: Volunteers should bring work gloves and wear weather-appropriate attire that you don’t mind getting dirty, including long pants, long sleeves and sturdy closed-toe shoes with socks. This attire helps protect limbs, minimizes exposure to poison ivy and is required for safety.
WHAT WE WILL BRING: Forest Park Forever will provide beverages, snacks and an assortment of gloves, hand tools (volunteers may bring and use own tools — no power equipment) and required safety equipment.
HOW: Volunteers help manage woody saplings by cutting the vegetation and treating the stems with a dyed herbicide to kill the root system. Vines are cut off trees and removed from around the surrounding ground of trees to prevent reproduction.
WHEN: Saturday, November 4, 2023 from 9am - 12pm
WHY: Read about why removing certain species of plants is so important to maintain the health of forests in the Park.
SIGN UP: Registration is closed
QUESTIONS? Email Hilary Sears or call 314.571.6072