Taking on the Bullies in the Forest

Infestations of bush honeysuckle and other invasive plants should not be taken lightly. These plants can change the soil chemistry and retard or even stop the germination of native plants. If left unchecked, they can lead to the decline or extinction of native plant and pollinator species. In addition, infestations of invasives can block sightlines into natural areas and increase safety concerns, inhibit passive recreation, reduce wildlife habitat and food sources, and increase erosion and sediment runoff into nearby waterways. 

To control their spread, Land Stewardship uses a methodical approach in which the park is divided into 22 parcels and the invasive species in each parcel are inventoried along with their location and density. Equipped with this data, crews are sent out to specific areas in the park to look for and target various invasives for removal or treatment. This information allows Land Stewardship to monitor its restoration efforts and determine its management strategy moving forward.

Controlling the spread of invasives at Skiles Test Nature Park has greatly improved the quality of the park while preserving the land’s natural features and its beauty for future generations.