White Trail Restoration Continues

The habitat restoration spanning areas of the White and Bischoff trails has continued through the winter. The Forest Defenders, our volunteer group devoted to the removal of invasive plant species, has engaged in extensive efforts during the cold months, and the majority of invasive species have been removed from the area directly off the White trail. With the level of progress made, attention has been shifted to a secondary stand of invasive shrubs off of the Bischoff trail. Volunteers have been working diligently at uprooting and cutting back these damaging non-native species, giving native plant species a chance to recover.  

Restorative native plantings have also begun to occur off the White trail. Thanks to the generosity of an anonymous donor, TNC has been able to plant 100 5-6 foot tall trees in the project area. Species such as Flowering Dogwood, Redbud, Pin Cherry and Shadbush represent the diversity of species, and are known as mid-story trees. While these species do not reach canopy heights of 80-100 feet like an Oak can, they are an important layer in the creation of a multi-layer habitat. By creating levels of habitat with these key tree species, species that rely on them for nesting, including the endangered Golden Winged Warbler, will find this section of TNC a desirable habitat. As the weather warms, we also hope to plant other native species that will benefit struggling pollinator species.  

If you would like to donate to this ongoing restoration project please contact Debora Davidson ddavidson@TenaflyNC.org