A Little Rain and Lots of Trees

The weather forecast for October 3 predicted sun, but the day started out with light rain and drizzle. Fortunately, 16 volunteers were not deterred by the less-than-ideal weather and showed up for the work day at JK Black Oak Wildlife Sanctuary. The group was comprised of people who regularly volunteer at JK Black Oak and seven new volunteers.

The September work day had been devoted to getting ready to plant native trees and shrubs by clearing invasives, making tree cages and putting in fence posts. The woodies were delivered Friday evening so that all was ready for the work day. On Saturday, everyone grabbed a shovel and headed over to the LeSabre vernal pool to start planting. We planted multiple species of oaks (Quercus spp.), Silky Dogwood (Cornus amomum), Eastern Red Cedar (Juniperus virginiana) and Buttonbush (Cephalanthus occidentalis)

Once the woodies were planted, those vulnerable to White-tailed deer browse were protected by tree cages or fences.

Except for the Eastern Red Cedars, all of the trees and shrubs were propagated from seeds collected at JK Black Oak. The cedars were contributed by Bob Saveland who dug them from his yard.

Let’s run the numbers for the work day:

• 120 native trees and shrubs
• 53 tree cages
• 16 volunteers
• 3 separate locations around LeSabre
• 2 fences

Thanks to all the volunteers who showed up and worked hard to get everything done. The next work day is November 7, and you can sign up here: work day registration.

Funding for the plants and fencing materials was provided by a generous grant from Microsoft in collaboration with the Society for Ecological Restoration for standards-based ecological restoration.