History of the site: These grasslands are a valuable nesting site for a multitude of birds including the threatened Bell's Vireo and Henslow’s Sparrow. MVCs goal is to restore this preserve to its native sand prairie habitat and maintain a diversity of grassland habitats for fauna. The grasslands were previously overrun with invasive species and MVC has worked strategically remove invasive/unwanted trees, plant native grasses and forbs, and perform prescribed burns before and after plantings to prepare the ground for seeding and help eliminate non-native grasses and unwanted trees. Shrubs and trees that are the target species for removal include Siberian elm, amur maple, cypress spurge, black cherry, box elder, sumac, and poplar.
What you will be doing: Removing invasive brush that is spreading into the grasslands. People will group into teams of three: one cutter, one brush piler, and one herbicide treater. The person cutting the stumps can use a handheld lopper or a chainsaw depending on their comfort level. The piler will haul the brush to a designated location and the treater will apply a small amount of diluted herbicide to the stump that was cut to inhibit regrowth. PPE will be provided.
Why this is important: Proper brush management is very important and one of the most cost-effective ways to improve wildlife habitat. Prairies and oak openings may become overcrowded or choked by undesirable species such as bush (Amur) honeysuckle and autumn olive. By reducing the competition and removing low quality species, brush management increases availability of food for fauna, enhances native habitat conditions, and increases native species diversity. Greater diversity equates to the land’s increased resilience to a changing climate!
What to wear: Sturdy hiking/work boots, durable socks, long pants, a hat to protect from the sun, a breathable shirt.
What to bring: A water bottle, sunblock and bug spray, snacks if you have dietary restrictions, work gloves and protective glasses if you prefer your own.
What we will provide: water to refill your bottle, snacks, and protective equipment such a gloves, safety glasses, and ear protection if necessary, and any tools needed to complete the project.
Learning opportunity: Brush up on your plant identification skills! Learn how to identify and eradicate invasive species on your own property. Enjoy the beauty of native flora and fauna that call this sand prairie their home.
Where: New Amsterdam Grasslands
Location: W7900 Old NA. New Amsterdam, WI 54636
Parking Google pin: https://goo.gl/maps/ySZHg1izjK37q8WN8
Contact: Genesis Gordon, Restoration Coordinator at genesis@mississippivalleyconservancy.org
