Skare Park Restoration Masterplan

Transcription

Skare Park Restoration Masterplan
Prepared by:
ecology + vision, llc
p.o. box 601
Leland, IL 60531
www.ecologyllc.com
Prepared for:
Flagg-Rochelle Community Park District
735 North 2nd Street
Rochelle IL 61068
January 10th, 2013
Executive Summary
-Introduction
-Enhancement & Expansion of Natural Areas
Skare Park Natural History
Site Analysis
-Soils
-Hydrology
-Existing Conditions
Restoration Plan
-The Case For Restoration
-Prairie 1.1 (Dry Mesic)
-Prairie 1.2 (Mesic Prairie)
-Prairie 1.3 (Wet-Mesic)
-Wetland 2.1 (Sedge Meadow)
-Wetland 2.2 (Drainage Swale)
-Wetland 2.3 (Shoreline/Floodplain)
-Woodland 3.1 (Wooded Bluff)
-Woodland 3.2 (Upland Woodland)
-Woodland 3.3 (Wooded Floodplain)
-Woodland 3.4 (Secondary Growth)
-Woodland 3.5 (Pine Plantation)
-Park Entrance 4.1 (Native Landscaping)
-Agricultural Field 4.2 (Conversion)
Management Recommendation
-White-Tailed Deer
-Beaver
Implementation Recommendations
Ecosystem Restoration Primer
Ecosystem Stewardship Primer
Appendix A - Native Plant & Seed Lists
Appendix B - Species Inventory & FQI
Appendix C - Potential Funding Sources
Appendix D - Volunteer Recommendations
Appendix E - 1804-1891 Plat of Survey Notes
Appendix F - Document Breakdown
References
Table of Contents
Area of Study
Phase II
Introduction
To achieve highly diverse and multi-functional natural areas true to what was present prior to European settlement; agencies should implement a prioritized restoration and stewardship program accommodating each site’s various conditions.
Continuing restoration efforts in Flagg – Rochelle Community Park District parks will further improve community livelihood by linking history, ecology, and outdoor activities providing living history to future generations. Historical documents
show that the pre-European settlement landscape of Ogle County was approximately 60% prairie and 40% woodland or savanna. Most wooded areas occur along waterways and/or within floodplain areas, particularly on the west or north sides
where they would have been protected from regularly occurring wildfire. Due to a fear of the unfamiliar and “wild” prairie, European settlers typically showed preference to wooded lands when claiming property…this resulted in a rather rapid
decline in “old-growth” forested land throughout Ogle County.
Existing Site Conditions Summary
Our research revealed that the Skare Park site is located within the Grand Prairie Section of the Grand Prairie Division of Illinois, and historically would have consisted of a sea of prairie with pockets of forested communities on the south side
of the Kyte River while being mainly forested on the north side. A review of available aerial photography clearly shows the drastic change from the documented Pre-Settlement woodland and wet prairie conditions to an agrarian landscape as
early as 1939, only 67 years after the last documented evidence of the existence of “Jefferson Grove” in 1872. Sequential aerial photography displays a progressive discontinuation of agricultural use across much of the site and the resulting reestablishment of both planted and successional growth with fast-growing weedy woody species, in some cases native but non-native in most cases. The first evidence of development in the northeast corner of the Skare Park property appears in
a 1980 aerial photograph and the planted pine “plantation” areas appear in a 1986 aerial photograph. Plat maps of the site show ownership by the Park District beginning sometime between 1968-1978.
Analysis of historical documentation, aerial photographs and several site surveys demonstrate that Skare Park consists of both remnant and disturbed woodlands; planted pine plantations; other native and non-native tree species plantations;
restored prairie; as well as both remnant and disturbed marshland, wetland and floodplain. While some sections of the site continue to show evidence of high quality remnant native vegetation (e.g. old-growth trees, spring ephemerals, etc.),
others have been severely degraded due to agriculture, development, deer browse and the establishment of invasive/weedy non-native and native species. We believe that many of the old-growth Oaks found growing throughout the site are
remnant along with an array of high-quality herbaceous species. A Floristic Quality Assessment (FQA) has been applied to the vegetation recorded during the site surveys. Following the assessment, a Floristic Quality Index (FQI) is calculated to
rank a site in order of its floristic quality based upon the tolerance to disturbance displayed by each species. Those species with a low disturbance tolerance are rated the highest and are considered greater quality. FQI ratings range from 0-15
(Low), 15-25 (Moderate), 25-30 (Good), 30-35 (High), and 35+ (Natural Area). The overall Skare Park vegetative quality exceeds a total FQI value of 40, which would categorize it as having high quality remnant natural areas. Remnant ecosystems
with FQI values of 20 or more are considered to have significant ecological functions and are therefore worthy of restoration efforts and legal protection. Highlights include Wild Leek (Allium tricoccum), several Anemone species, Jack-in-thePulpit (Arisaema triphyllum), Pennsylvania Sedge (Carex pennsylvania), Spring Beauty (Claytonia virginica), Wild Geranium (Geranium maculatum), Interrupted Fern (Osmunda claytoniana), May Apple (Podophyllum peltatum), Jacob’s Ladder
(Polemonium reptans), Bloodroot (Sanguinaria canadensis) and Red Trillium (Trillium recurvatum)within small areas of remnant woodland; Swamp Milkweed (Asclepias incarnata), several high-quality Sedge species such as Common Tussock
Sedge (Carex stricta), Blue Flag Iris (Iris virginica var. shrevei), Narrow-Leaved Loosestrife (Lysimachia quadriflora), Prairie Cord Grass (Spartina pectinata), Blue Vervain (Verbena hastata) within areas of wetland and wet prairie; and White Wild
Indigo (Baptisia alba), Pale Purple Coneflower (Echinacea pallida), Rattlesnake Master (Eryngium yuccifolium), Wild Quinine (Parthenium integrifolium), New England Aster (Symphyotrichum novae-angliae), Early Meadow Rue (Thalictrum
dioicum) and Golden Alexanders (Zizia aurea) within portions of the restored prairie on site. However Skare Park also has a large population of invasive or non-native species that if left un-treated will diminish the quality of the site, lowering
the FQI value, including but not limited to Garlic Mustard (Allaria petiolata), Wild Parsnip (Pastinaca sativa), Reed Canarygrass (Phalaris arundinaceae) and Common Reed (Phragmites australis). To sustain or improve the current value each site
would benefit immensely from supplemental restoration and continued long-term management.
ecology + vision, llc. has been
contracted to perform an
ecological assessment and
prepare a restoration master
plan for the Skare Park
Natural Areas north and
east of the Kyte River. The
goal of this plan is to identify
existing natural communities
throughout the park and to
Reccommendations for Ecosystem Restoration & Management
identify a future restoration
The objective is to replace weedy and non-native plant species that have become overgrown with the plants known to have occurred in Ogle County prior to European settlement. By outlining a master plan, the Flagg – Rochelle Community
Park District will be able to move forward with future natural area restoration projects crucial to improving biodiversity within the District.
and stewardship plan for the
There were 188 total species inventoried throughout the project area, 138 of which are native species. This resulted in a total FQI score of 40.84 and a native FQI score of 47.67. This score indicates a very high quality remnant ecosystem. The
Flagg – Rochelle Community
overall FQI score can be increased by controlling existing non-native species as well as removing some lower-quality native species. We recommend that restoration be conducted in three major phases. Phase I will focus on eradicating invasive
Park District to enhance/
and non-native species, removing successional woody growth and establishing a functional native herbaceous ground layer that can support regular prescription fire. Phases II & III focus on re-establishing the historic wooded ecosystem through
expand the historical
massive tree planting efforts. Priorities should be to 1.) Remove and prevent re-sprouting of Japanese honeysuckle, buckthorn and multiflora rose from the entire site; 2.) Erect deer exclosure areas and monitor for native vegetation recovery;
significance and ecological
3) Remove all trees and brush from the prairie and wetland areas; 4.) Eradicate invasive herbaceous species with emphasis on control of wild parsnip and cool-season turf grasses in the prairie areas, garlic mustard in the woodland areas and
diversity on each site.
common reed, reed canarygrass and Canada thistle within the wetland areas; 5.) Remove and/or thin secondary growth tree species; 6.) If determined necessary, develop and implement a deer control program; 7.) Control tall goldenrod
throughout the site; 8.) Install native seed/plugs in areas lacking vegetation in order to increase competition with weed species and increase plant diversity; 9.) Install native seed in the current agricultural field area; 10.) Implement site
enhancements as funding becomes available; 11.) Begin a tree planting program.
Enhancement and Expansion of Natural Areas
To understand the process of natural areas restoration, it is helpful to first understand the benefits that natural areas offer. Some of these benefits include cost savings, erosion control, improved water quality and ground water re-charge, carbon
sequestrations, and a timeless aesthetic with biodiversity.
There are four basic components to Ecosystem Restoration: site preparation, installation, erosion control and stewardship. There is no more important a task in Natural Areas restoration than stewardship. Stewardship is to Natural Areas what
Landscape Maintenance is to traditional landscape. Without stewardship natural area restoration will fail and with inadequate stewardship a natural area restoration will fail. Because of its importance we highly recommend that stewardship be
conducted by a professional ecological restoration firm, particularly during the 3-5 year establishment period after comprehensive restoration efforts begin. Alternately Flagg – Rochelle Community Park District staff may be trained and equipped
to conduct appropriate stewardship, however during this training period a professional firm should be employed to oversee the stewardship and assist with training. Volunteers can and should be involved in the stewardship process; however
we do not recommend a stewardship program that depends upon volunteer efforts. Volunteer involvement in regards to stewardship should be considered an educational or community strengthening exercise that supplements a permanent
and structured stewardship program.
The stewardship program must be aggressive, dynamic, and site-driven. Stewardship actions typically consist of mowing, selective herbicide applications, seed collection & supplemental seeding/planting, prescribed fire, and monitoring.
Executive Summary
Natural History:
Natural History of the State of Illinois – Approximately 10,000 years ago, the last of several glaciations
of the Laurentide ice sheet receded from the Midwest. Skare Park is located at the edge of the
last glaciation (Wisconsin Glaciation, 75,000 – 10,000 years ago) and the prior, Illinoian Glaciation
(300,000 – 125,000 years ago). As the ice retreated to the north and east, flowing water and
sediment that was released from the melting ice created the diverse landscape of plains, stream
beds, wetlands, and moraines that now characterize the Natural Divisions of Illinois. This range of
topography, hydrology, and microclimate, combined with periodic events such as floods and wildfire
resulted in the evolution of a rich diversity of flora and fauna that comprise Illinois’ ecosystems.
“Seventy-five years have seen
many changes in the forest
growth of the county. Most of
the trees standing at the present
time are second-growths, and
so great in the need of today
for wood, that even the much
younger growths must shake
like the aspen leaf for fear
of destruction. Occasionally
among the later forest growth
yet stands ‘a brave old oak’, a
tall, strong hickory, a straight
sycamore by a stream, or a
large elm.”
–Kauffman 1909 pg. 621
“For many immigrants used
to forest, there was a strong
prejudice against treeless
scapes; lands that were
incapable of supporting trees
could hardly be suitable for
agriculture.”
–Greenberg 2002 pg. 39
Natural History of Ogle County – Ogle County straddles several Natural Divisions of Illinois including
the Northeastern Morainal Division, Grand Prairie Division, and predominantly, the Rock River Hill
Country Division (Figure 1). Skare Park is located within the Grand Prairie Section of the Grand Prairie
Division (area 4a, Figure 1). Remnant areas in the Grand Prairie Section are generally characterized
as poorly drained, fertile soils, including black-soil prairie, marshes, and prairie potholes. Bodies of
water and geologic features provided shelter from wildfire, favoring the development of woodlands
and savannas. In 1820, over 40% (178,000 acres) of Ogle County was forested.
Figure 1. The Natural Divisions of Illinois (Schwegman 1973).
Ogle County is highlighted in blue, the star is the approximate location of Skare Park.
Figure 3. Wetland within Cornell Ave Basin, Montgomery, IL
The Oak-Hickory savanna was also a prominent ecosystem in the region. Often found on the
fringes of prairies, the savanna was characterized by widely-spaced, large, open-grown bur or
white oak and hickory trees and had a rich understory of grasses and wildflowers and occasional
colonies of shrubs. Like the prairies, savannas were also frequented by fires that swept through
the understory, sustaining their open, park-like appearance. Often in the savanna understory, small
saplings of oaks or hickories, called grubs, could be found. These grubs were top-killed regularly by
fire, but resprouted and maintained a low profile in the savanna. However, with the anthropogenic
suppression of fire post-settlement, these small trees grew rapidly and converted prior savannas to
dense forests (Packard and Mutel 15).
Pockets of low areas and natural drainage ways harbored rich and bio-productive marshes. These
wetlands not only provided important resources and habitat for Illinois wildlife, but they also served
to filter water, store floodwater from rain events, and recharge groundwater. Numerous plant
species thrived in the saturated or inundated soils of wetlands, including a variety of sedges, rushes,
and grasses. In years with favorable plant growth and weather conditions, wildfire also burned in
wetlands, playing a similar role in the wetlands as it did in the uplands.
Today, the majority of land throughout Illinois is developed and in agricultural use. Aerial imagery
shows that only 8% (38,000 acres) of Ogle County remained as forested in 1998; almost all of it as
secondary growth. This deforestation was the result of settlers moving into northern Illinois clearing
wooded areas, especially along rivers and streams, for building and heating their homes as well as for
grazing and agriculture. Because of the lack of timber, prairies were thought to be less profitable and
were avoided by most settlers until the mid-1800s.
Figure 4. Woodland at Northern Illinois University, Dekalb, IL
Many remaining natural areas throughout Illinois to this day contain successional growth, infestations
of invasive, exotic species and/or a completely different vegetation make-up than what would have
occurred prior to European settlement.
Figure 2. Federal Township Plats of Illinois are records from 1804-1891 when the first
surveyors came through Illinois with the majority of maps drawn in 1840. Skare Park is
outlined in red, and was comprised of primarily riparian and upland woodlands, wet prairie,
and marsh (slough).
Figure 5. Remnant prairie at Wolf Road Praire, Westchester, IL
Natural History of the Skare Park Site – By referencing the historic “Federal Township Plats of Illinois (18091891)” and other historical documents, we gain a better understanding of what the vegetation characteristics of
the sites likely would have been at the time that the first surveyors moved through Flagg Township in the 1800s
(Figure 2), stands of timber, streams, marshy areas, cultivated fields, and towns are typically recorded on these
maps. The Federal Township Plats of Illinois in conjunction with other available historic documentation can be
utilized as a foundation upon which we can base the rebuilding and restoration of our fragmented natural areas.
A thorough review of historic documentation, including the Federal Township Plats of Illinois (Figure 2), Flagg
Township Map of 1872 (Figure 9), Ogle County Soils Survey (See Analysis:Soils) and local period writings
combined with an assessment of the site’s existing conditions (Figures 10 & 11) reveal that Pre-European
settlement conditions of Skare Park were mainly forested riparian areas along and north of the Kyte River, with
surrounding upland woodland, savanna, wet prairie, and marsh along what is now a channelized stream in the
northern portion of the site. Historically the Kyte River, a tributary of the Rock River, and the marshy slough in
the north of the property likely halted or slowed most western fires blazing through surrounding lands allowing
the development of an old-growth woodland/savanna community throughout most of the site. Some fires
would have started on site or been able to pass through wet areas in dry years, promoting a mix of open-grown
oaks and hickories, fire-resistant trees, in upland areas. This well documented woodland occurring at the Skare
Park site is referenced as Jefferson Grove in a 1909 publication of “The History of Ogle County”.
Ogle County Plat of Survey:
Quotes from the public
“In Flagg Township, Hickory Grove and a timber tract along the Kyte, near the west line, called Jefferson Grove.” surveyor’s notes (Figure 2)
-Kauffman 1909 pg. 622.
referencing areas of Skare Park
Figure 6. 1939 Aerial
Figure 9. Flagg Township Map of 1872. Today’s Skare Park was located
along the south west edge of the forest highlighted in green, where
the river hooks.
Current FEMA Flood maps show the surrounding woods along the Kyte River are generally wetter along the
southern areas than the northern, steeper areas. While there appears to be stark transition between woodland
and prairie on the federal township plat, there would have been more open, savanna ecosystems along the
edges of these woodlands, transitioning to the wet and dry prairies. In the woodlands during the first surveys,
oak, hickory, elm, and ash would have been the dominant tree species, with a rich understory flora of spring
ephemerals such as red trillium, mayapple, and trout lilies. The marshes would have been dominated by rushes
and sedges, transitioning to prairie/wet prairie or oak savanna prior to reverting to woodland.
A review of available aerial photography clearly shows the drastic change from the documented Pre-Settlement
woodland and wet prairie conditions to an agrarian landscape as early as 1939 (Figure 6), only 67 years after the
last documented evidence of the existence of Jefferson Grove in 1872 (Figure 9). Sequential aerial photography (Figures 7 & 8) displays a progressive discontinuation of agricultural
use across much of the site and the resulting re-establishment of both planted and successional growth with fast-growing weedy woody species.
“The corner to sections 17, 18, 19, 20.
Land west part gently rolling rich soil.
East part level, but a great part of the
whole too wet for cultivation. Timber
white oak, black oak, Spanish oak and
hickory. Not much undergrowth.”
“Set a post for corner to sections 7, 8,
17, 18 from which a white oak 5 inches
diameter bears N40°E. 1.03 links [.68
ft]. A black oak 12 inches diameter
bears N55°W. 18 links [11.88 ft]. A black
oak 18 inches.”
“Diameter bears S62°W. 45 links
[29.7 ft] and a white oak 15 inches
diameter bears S65°E 9 links [5.94 ft]
distant. Land gently rolling black and
white oak barrens thin soil not fit for
cultivation.”
Figure 10. Old growth oaks show a glimpse of past limbs that would of
stretched into open space reminiscent of a savanna
Figure 11. Larger oak and hickory tree species leaning out toward the edge showcase that there was once a larger tree in the middle of this opening, concluding that the existing
large oak and hickory species are secondary growth.
“Set a post the east side of said stone
for corner to sections 7 & 18... Land
gently rolling white, black and burr
oak barrens. Thin soil not fit for
cultivation. There is a broad and wide
slough which runs west from 10 to
15 chains [660 to 990 ft] south of the
line.”
(See original documents in Appendix E)
Upland Timber Soils occur as irregular zones along streams and on or near somewhat
steep morainal ridges. Their most noticeable characteristic is the yellowish gray color
of the surface, due in part to its low organic-matter content. The deficiency in organic
matter has been caused by the long-continued growth of forest trees. Two effects where
produced by the forest trees: the shade from the trees prevented the growth of prairie
grasses, the roots of which are mainly responsible for the large organic-matter content
in prairie soils; and the trees themselves added very little organic matter to the soil, for
the leaves and branches either decayed completely or were burned by forest fires. As a
result, the organic matter content of the upland timber soils is always less than that of the
adjacent prairie land. Several generations of trees were necessary to produce the present
condition of the soil. Following are more detailed descriptions of the Upland Timber soil
types identified on-site in 1927:
• 734 - Yellow-Gray Silt Loam (20 acres, 6% of the Skare Park Site) – This is a common soil
type throughout the County (about 75% of the total area of all timber soils), but occurs in
small amounts at the Skare Park site. It typically occupies the portion of the light-colored
or timber soil areas, which have an undulating to slightly rolling topography.
Since soil structures can
be altered over time due to
changes in historic vegetation
and/or management regimes,
it is helpful to examine
the earliest possible soils
information recorded the
least removed from the time
of settlement of the area
(approximately 55 years after
the 1872 Plat Map, the last
document showing Jefferson
Grove). For the Skare Park
site, the 1927 Soil Survey of
Ogle County is the oldest
documentation of soil structures
at Skare Park that we were
able to identify. Similar to other
historical documentation, the
1927 soil survey defines the
majority of Skare Park soils as
Upland Timber Soils with small
percentages of Upland Prairie
Soils and Late Swamp and
Bottom-Land Soils.
• 764 - Yellow-Gray Sandy Loam (100 acres, 32% of the Skare Park Site) – This soil type
typically occurs around rivers, particularly the Rock River, where a considerable amount
of sand has been blown from the bottom land and deposited on the upland by winds
following glaciation. It is fairly rare throughout Ogle County, occupying only 1.95% of the
total area of the County, but is the primary soil at the Skare Park site. Topography varies
in this type from undulating to rolling. Drainage is typically good because of the open
sandy subsoil, however some areas may have limestone bed rock 35-40 inches below the
surface.
Upland Prairie Soils of Ogle County occupied nearly 58% of the area of the County
in 1927. The dark color of the prairie soils is due to the accumulation of organic matter,
which is derived very largely from the fibrous roots of the prairie grasses. The network
of grass roots was protected from rapid and complete decay thru the partial exclusion
of oxygen by the covering of fine, moist soil and mat of vegetative material consisting of
old grass stems and leaves. The stems and leaves were burned in part by prairie fires or
disappeared in part by decay. Thus they added but little organic matter to the soil directly,
but, being constantly renewed, they helped to check the decay of the fibrous roots.
• 760 - Brown Sandy Loam (45 acres, 14% of the Skare Park site) – This soil type occurs
east of the Rock River, in the regions of the glacial fills of the old pre-glacial stream
valleys, and also adjacent to the Rock River. The sandy texture of the soil is due to wind
action which has blown the sand out of the bottoms upon the uplands. The topography is
typically undulating to rolling. The drainage is usually will developed, owing to the open
subsoil. While this soil type is fairly common throughout Ogle County, it is a minor soil
type at the Skare Park site and is restricted to the portions of the site south of the Kyte
River (not a part of this plan).
Late Swamp and Bottom Land Soils are fairly rare throughout Ogle County,
occupying approximately 8.5% of the county area in 1927 and typically include the
bottom lands along streams, the swamps and the poorly drained lowlands. Much of these
soils are of alluvial formation and is largely subject to overflow. Swamps occupy the low
marshy areas in the pre-glacial Rock River terrace and some of the pre-glacial valleys
formed by its tributaries. The also occupy the depressions in the upland that are often the
sources of intermittent streams.
• 1450 - Black Mixed Loam (101 acres, 33% of the Skare Park site) – The largest areas of
this soil type are located in the eastern part of the County in what is known as the preglacial Rock River terrace. The other areas are scattered throughout he upland, usually
occurring as depressions in the undulating or rolling upland in which many of the small,
intermittent streams find their sources. Much seepage and drainage water reaches thes
areas, thus providing optimum conditions for the accumulation of organic matter. Usually,
the streams that flow through these areas have no well-defined channels and remain
sluggish due to level topography. In larger areas the drainage may be better established
because of dredging and/or the installation of drainage tile.
• 1454 - Mixed Loam (45 acres, 14% of the Skare Park Site) – This soil type occurs as
bottom land along rivers and small streams throughout the County. It is typically prone
to regular flooding and often changes in structure due to erosion and sedimentation. It
usually takes the form of narrow strips, rarely more than a quarter of a mile in width.
Historical Soil
Survey 1927
Figure 12. traces of sandy soil throughout the woodland area
Site Analysis: Soils
Current Soil
Survey 2012
The existing soil map of the Skare Park site indicate soil series with related historic
vegetation of primarily tallgrass prairie, with sections of oak-hickory woodland and
marshy slough in concave areas with poorly drained soils.
Prairie Grass- 102A - La Hogue loam,
0 to 2% slopes, Somewhat Poorly Drained
Wetland - 125A - Selma loam,
0 to 2% slopes, Poorly Drained
Oak-Hickory Woodland- 175B - Lamont sandy loam,
2 to 5% slopes, Well Drained
Oak-Hickory Woodland- 175C - Lamont sandy loam,
Deciduous Forest- 242A - Kendall silt loam,
0 to 2% slopes, Somewhat Poorly Drained
Marsh- 3103A - Houghton muck,
0 to 2% slopes, Very Poorly Drained
Mixed Hardwood Forest- 361B - Kidder loam,
(Red Oak, White Oak, 2 to 4% slopes, Well Drained
Hickory, & White Ash)
Prairie-
363D2 - Griswold loam,
Marsh Grasses & Trees-
3776A - Comfrey loam,
0 to 2% slopes, Poorly Drained
Tallgrass Prairie- 440B - Jasper loam,
(Big Bluestem) 2 to 5% slopes, Well Drained
490A - Odell loam,
Prairie Grass- 0 to 2% slopes, Somewhat Poorly Drained
570B - Martinsville silt loam,
Mixed Deciduous Hardwood- 2 to 5% slopes, Well Drained
570C2 - Martinsville silt loam,
Mixed Deciduous Hardwood- 2 to 5% slopes, Eroded, Well Drained
Mixed Deciduous HardwoodPasture & Forest-
570D2 - Martinsville silt loam,
10 to 18% slopes, Eroded, Well Drained
Based on the USDA-NRCS Soil
Survey Division description
series which identifies historical
vegetation commonly found
on a specific soil type, the site
would typically be made up
of woodland, marsh or wet
prairie, prairie, and savanna.
The soils map shows four
colors, corisponding with the
typical ecosystems described
above. The green consists of
what may of been deciduous
woodland such as oak-hickory
species to hardwoods: oak,
elm, ash, maple, beech. Pink
represents what may of been
marsh or wetland areas while
orange respresents what may
of consisted of prairie or tall
grasslands. The orange signifies
what may of been savanna
which is an open woodland
made up of oak-hickory canopy
trees with shade tolerant
prairie species.
618B - Senachwine loam,
Tallgrass Prairie- 742B - Dickinson sandy loam,
88B - Sparta loamy sand,
Savanna- 1 to 6% slopes, Excessively Drained
Site Analysis: Soils
Hydrology
Existing hydrology conditions
were compiled using GIS with
multiple data components
from FEMA floodzone maps,
national wetland inventory,
topographic analysis, and GPS
tracking through seasonal
field studies. High points are
identified by navy blue points
showcasing
Once we determine what type of plant community existed on a site (i.e. woodland,
prairie, wetland, etc.), it is critical that we analyze the existing hydrology. Hydrology is
defined as “The scientific study of the properties, distribution, and effects of water on the
earth’s surface, in the soil and underlying rocks, and in the atmosphere.” Understanding
how water falls on and traverses a site enables us to plan restoration approaches
utilizing native species well-suited for differing moisture regimes. At the Skare Park site,
most water drains toward the Kyte River or the creek running east to west along the
northern portion of the property. When we examine the topography, we find there are
several major low areas that act as drainage ways for concentrated flows. There are also
extremely flat areas that exhibit high water tables, which are very suitable for wetland
ecosystems. Another specialized ecosystem is the Floodplain that wraps around the Kyte
River, particularly on the south and west sides.
Due to the majority of the site having been agriculture for at least the last 73 years (since
1939, the first available aerial photograph), we highly recommend that the park district
conduct a drainage tile survey and have any existing drain tiles removed, broken or
controlled prior to beginning restoration efforts.
Figure 13. Historic image of the Kyte River
Site Analysis: Hydrology
Analysis of historical
documentation, aerial
photographs and several site
surveys demonstrate that Skare
Park consists of both remnant
and disturbed woodlands,
planted pine and other nonnative tree species plantation,
restored prairie, and disturbed
marshland. While some
sections of the site continue to
show evidence of high quality
remnant native vegetation (e.g.
spring ephemerals), others have
been severely degraded due
to agriculture, development,
and the establishment of
invasive/weedy non-native
and native species. General
descriptions of these areas and
recommendations for ecosystem
restoration follow.
Site Analysis: Existing Conditions
Historic Landscape:
Before the Europeans explored, and eventually settled North America, there existed a vast interconnected network of ecosystems. Prairies, wetlands, woodlands,
rivers, lakes, savannas and deserts covered every square inch of what was to become the United States. These systems stretched from ocean to ocean, with no
breaks in their continuity. It was a seamless gradient of systems that flowed naturally from one area to the next. With elevational, soil, or moisture changes, the
plant communities (and thus insect and animal populations) would subtly change, and what affected one system would invariably affect the adjoining system.
Nutrients, energy, and disturbances were cycled continuously between them. Every process was accounted for. When something died, there were organisms to
break it down and cycle the energy and nutrients through the system. Storm water percolated through the soil and was cleaned. When a drought swept over the
land- rivers, forests and prairies all felt its effects. When lightening naturally ignited a fire, it burned through these systems until it reached a natural breach such as
a river, where the water usually halted its movement. Abiotic factors, those that are non-living, such as drought, rain, wind, sun, climate and fire would periodically
alter a system. Biotic (living) factors such as grazing (herbivory), disease and predation affected what living things would comprise each system. Biotic and abiotic
factors were both responsible for community structure and functioning efficiency. Such components and disturbances helped keep populations of plants and
animals in balance.
We now know that humans also played an important role in shaping these ecosystems. About 40,000 years ago, humans arrived in North America. As they learned
to live with the land, they also unknowingly aided these systems in their disturbance cycles. Native Americans set fires to clear land in order to hunt buffalo, fight
wars, and for security (enemies can easily hide in a tall grass prairie.). It is known that a disturbance such as fire can help keep the number of different species,
or the species diversity, in an area at its peak. In the absence of fire, ecosystems can lose diversity. The community becomes simplified- with only a few species
of plants present, and thus becomes an area where very few different animals and insects can live. Plants that are native in the Mid- Western states of the U. S.
have evolved to use disturbances, biotic, and abiotic processes as part of their life cycles. For example, prairie plants accustomed to dry, hot summers have root
systems that can be up to 15 feet deep! (Figure 15). They allocate a large percentage of their energy to developing deep root systems to easily survive drought.
These plants lose 25 % of their root systems per year; which decay leaving porous holes or tunnels. This, in turn, aerates the soil, provides soil drainage, and
provides decomposers deep in the earth with food. Additionally, due to their deep root systems, they have become highly adapted to fire, and can re-sprout within
weeks because their crowns lie just below the ground’s surface. As you can see, the natural world is self-regulating, and we were a part of it. Like a democratic
government, there are checks and balances on everything. Rivers depend on forests to add energy to its system, so it can support life within itself. Rivers depend
on forests to hold soil and some nutrients back, so it doesn’t become cloudy and too full of nutrients (lest it encounter algae blooms.). Rivers carrying floodwaters
(a disturbance) replenish surrounding forests, by depositing nutrient rich silt onto the soil. Wetlands depend on rivers for a water source, and rivers depend on
wetlands to filter and clean its water before it re-enters the river system again. They were all interconnected.
What we have now:
We still have examples of all of these systems. They are still connected; they are not, however, interconnected. Parking lots, subdivisions, and agricultural fields
separate them. What remains now are typically degraded natural areas. In the last 100 years, the face of nature in the U. S. has changed drastically. Where once
prairies covered Illinois, now only one- hundredth of one percent (.01 %) of the original prairie land area is left (See Figure 16). Farms have been established on
wetlands that have been drained. In Illinois, strip malls, sub-divisions, and parking lots cover the some of the best soil in the world; these soils will never again be
productive. Forests have been harvested and shrunken, as modern development encroaches. We are losing species at the fastest rate the world has ever seen. These
components threaten human survival and long-term existence. Another threat to our native species is non- native invasive species that have been introduced from
Europe and Asia. The cost to taxpayers in eradication, coupled with the economic losses, from non- natives can run in the hundreds of billions of dollars a year. This
estimate does not even consider the environmental costs to native systems (Simberloff 1996). Most recently, in 2010 alone, the federal government spent more
Figure 16. Historical state of the prairie
than $75 million to prevent the spread of Asian Carp, a highly invasive fish species, into Lake Michigan. Because invasive species are organisms that did not evolve
in North American systems, they have nothing to regulate their population sizes here. There are no diseases or predators to cull their populations. Thus, not only
do they disrupt the plant system where they live, but they also do not provide local animal populations with anything to eat, disrupting the food chain. Non-natives
are displacing our native species, and threaten to alter the quality of remaining habitats for a long while to come.
Figure 14. The Monarch Butterfly sits ontop of a Liatris plant.
Why Restore Our Natural Areas:
It is simple scientific fact…all life on earth, including humans, owe their existence to plants. In addition to their ability to absorb carbon dioxide and release lifesustaining oxygen into the atmosphere, plants are one of the only organisms on earth that can harness the sun’s energy and convert it into a form of energy that the
rest of us can use. They are the bottom of the trophic pyramid (see Figure 17), without plants no other life is possible on earth. Understanding that plants are the basis
of all life makes it easier to begin to understand the impact that restoring our native plants can have on maintaining biological diversity, ensuring that the sun’s energy
continues to get passed up the food chain. After the glaciers retreated from North America approximately 10,000 years ago, the landscape evolved into a rich diversity
of flora. Each species of plant developed its own unique leaf chemistry, which made its leaf distasteful and typically toxic to all animals that had not developed the
enzymes needed to detoxify them. We now know that up to 90% of all plant-eating insects are considered specialists because they have evolved in concert with no
more than a few plant lineages, resulting in specialized abilities to eat the tissues of one particular plant lineage. Unfortunately, this adaptation usually decreases an
insect’s ability to eat other plants that differ in timing of development, leaf chemistry or physical defenses. Therefore, those insects that co-evolved with our native
plant species can only exist as long as our native plants exist. Take the Monarch butterfly for example (Figure 14), in its adult form a monarch butterfly can take
nectar from multiple species of plants, non-native plant species included. However, in its juvenile form a monarch caterpillar can only eat milkweeds, they cannot
Figure 17. Trophic pyramid showing grass or plants at the
digest any other species of plant. If we cease to have milkweeds, we will cease to have monarch butterflies. This same principal applies to the over 20,000 species
bottom of the food chain
of insects native to Illinois. What this relationship tells us is that our native insects are the next level of the pyramid, they continue carrying the sun’s energy
through the ecosystem. When we utilize non-native plants in our landscapes or when we allow invasive species to dominate our natural areas, we also effectively
stop the movement of the sun’s energy at that plant. Similarly, if we allow only a few native species to dominate a site we inherently limit the system’s ability to cycle energy due to a lack of biodiversity. The damage that has been
done in the last century has taken its toll, but it’s not irreparable. The reason the average American should care about any of this is that it actually affects the probabilities of human survival in the long term. The term “web- of- life”
applies to us humans more than most people think it does. Scientific ingenuity will not save us in the long term. The fact is, things in the natural world have inspired most of our exciting technological innovations. Medicines, fibers,
fuels and more have either come from or have been modeled after parts of plants and animals. The less we threaten their existence, the more the human race as a whole will benefit.
Letting “Nature Take Its Course”:
Can we replicate exactly what was here in the past? Probably not. Often it is difficult for us to definitively know the exact vegetative composition of a site prior to settlement occurring, however with good historical research and
interpretation of existing conditions we can paint a pretty good picture of what likely occurred. We also understand that these ecosystems would have developed over thousands of years through a process known as succession.
Succession typically begins with aggressive, fast-growing species that quickly establish after some sort of disturbance has occurred. Over time, these fast-growing, often short-lived species give way to more stable, long-lived species
that will then occupy the site in perpetuity or until the next major factor of disturbance (flood, hurricane, etc.), at which time the successionary process would begin again. An example of this might be when a beaver builds a dam,
causing a nearby prairie area to flood that has always been exposed to regular wildfires. Soon, due to fire suppression, fast-growing tree species will begin to grow in this area…willow, cottonwood, boxelder, etc. This changes the
microclimate of the site and the herbaceous understory and soil structure begins to shift, and in time the area becomes suitable for more permanent species to grow…swamp oaks, red maples, black gum, etc. A greater diversity
of much longer-lived species eventually establishes. It seems feasible then that passive restoration efforts that focus on re-establishing historical disturbance regimes or abiotic conditions and relying on successional processes (i.e.
“letting nature take its course”) to guide the recovery of biotic communities would be an effective and preferred means of restoration. However, almost all current research indicates that strong feedbacks between biotic factors and
the physical environment can alter the efficacy of these successional-based restoration or management efforts. Recent studies indicate that some degraded systems are resilient to passive restoration efforts owing to constraints
such as changes in landscape connectivity and organization, loss of native species pools, shifts in species dominance, climate change, trophic interactions and/or invasion by exotics and concomitant effects on biogeochemical
processes. Rather, it is suggested that successful restoration in today’s environment requires bold and innovative restoration and management plans that disrupt feedbacks and addresses the constraints of degraded systems. In
short, degraded ecosystems such as those observed at Skare Park today, just do not have the resiliency to rebound successfully on their own. They will require significant inputs from the District or other groups, including invasive
species control, control of deer populations, control of hydrological conditions, controlled succession, supplemental seed/plant source introduction and even species introduction.
Figure 18. Restored prairie at Pizzo residence, Clare IL.
Figure 15. Root section of Compass Plant (Silphium laciniatum)
Restoration Plan: The Case For Restoration
Dry-Mesic Prairie (1.1): Existing Site Conditions Summary
The tallgrass prairies on-site, located in the southeast corner of Skare Park have been restored from former agricultural fields, either through active restoration and manangement or through a passive successional
approach. Examination of historic documents and maps depicts these areas as having been wooded prior to European settlement in the early 1800s. We have separated the prairie areas into three distinct moisture
gradients, separating them further by current floristic quality and conservation value. Most of the dry-mesic prairie areas do not seem to have been restored through an active restoration approach; rather they
display characteristics of fallow-field with the dominant plant species being tall goldenrod and annual fleabane with an underlying layer of turfgrasses.
1.1a – These areas contain slightly higher quality (more conservative) plant species, including sporadic purple coneflower, rattlesnake master, Ohio spiderwort, and weedy vines and saplings including Virginia
creeper, grapevine, mulberry, and ash. Drier areas contain a dominance of prairie grasses such as Indian grass and big bluestem.
Basic Restoration/Reconstruction: $1,800.00 - $2,505.00 (12 hours), Advanced Restoration/Reconstruction: $17,000.00 - $22,415.00 (85) hours
1.1b – These areas contain low quality species, dominated mainly by tall goldenrod and contain a higher concentration of non-native/invasive species.
Basic Restoration/Reconstruction: $25,630.00 - $34,070.00 (145 hours), Advanced Restoration/Reconstruction: $72,340.00 - $99,355.00 (1,685) hours
Dry-Mesic Prairie- General Restoration Recommendations
1. Priorities should be to 1.) eliminate all woody growth; 2.) control Invasive species, especially wild parsnip, Queen Anne’s lace and cool-season turf grasses; 3.) control aggressive, low-quality native species,
especially woody saplings and tall & Canada goldenrod; and 4.) install supplemental native dry-mesic prairie seed and plugs to establish plants in poorly performing areas and to increase overall plant diversity
(especially in 1.1b).
2. Remove trees and invasive shrubs less than 6” in diameter (i.e. honeysuckle, buckthorn, gray dogwood, etc.). Cutting should be done by hand and take place in the fall or winter when the ground is dry and/or
frozen to minimize impact on the soil structure. Apply 20% Garlon4e to the cut stump immediately after cutting. Apply 2% Garlon3a to foliage of target woody species during the growing season (avoid overspray
to non-target species). Apply Krenite® S and Lineage™ ClearStand™ to foliage of target woody species prior to turning leaf color in fall. Krenite applications will be the best approach for reducing the amount of
Virginia creeper and grapevine.
Figure 19. Skare Park view of 1.1b, Rochelle IL.
1.1 Dry-Mesic Prairie
(5.18 Acres, Priorities 4, 5, 7 & 8)
Restoration: $27,430.00 - $36,575.00 (Basic) or $89,340.00 - $211,110.00 (Advanced)
Stewardship: $55,625.00 - $111,250.00 Permits/Design: $4,500.00 - $13,000.00
PROJECTED TOTAL RESTORATION: $87,555.00 - $335,360.00
3. Mature Trees: Remove all mature trees to allow light to penetrate the ground and promote growth of the herbaceous wetland species while reducing the threat of predation on small birds and mammals from
raptors and owls. The removal of trees will increase habitat for ground dwelling fauna and ground-nesting birds. Removal of trees should be conducted during the dormant season to minimize impact on soils and
surrounding vegetation. Apply 20% Garlon4e to the cut stump immediately after cutting. Cut material can be chipped and used for trails if preferred; otherwise it should be removed from each site and disposed of
in an appropriate manner.
4. Clear out weedy species by hand pulling, cutting and/or herbicide application. Allow two weeks for the herbicide to take effect before seeding.
o Invasive species: Selectively apply herbicide to invasive species to control their population and reduce competition with native species. Do not allow any invasive species and/or
weedy native species to reproduce on-site. Brush-cut or mow plants that are in flower prior to them producing viable seed.
o To reduce the amount of tall & Canada goldenrod, selective herbicide applications can be applied throughout the growing season. Timed mowing can also be effective, mow down
the plant when it is producing its flower in late summer-fall. This will reduce energy stores in the root system which will damage some plants but will make herbicide applications the
following year much more effective. Mowing will also prevent seed production.
o All vegetation within 1.1b areas can be completely eradicated in preparation for native seeding. Utilize a boom-sprayer to apply a non-selective, non-persistent herbicide (such as
Glyphosate) to the entire stand of vegetation. Once the vegetation is browned-out, remove the biomass by mowing or prescribed fire prior to installing native seed.
5. Utilize a Truax native seed drill to install selected native plant seed mix to create new prairie areas (1.1b) or to enhance existing areas (1.1a). Plant species should be selected specifically for the site. See
Appendix A for a list of recommended plant material for installation in prairie areas. Long-term, implement a tree planting plan that restores the historic woodland ecosystem as displayed in Phase III.
Existing Condition Photos:
6. If the area to be seeded does not allow for operation of a Truax seed drill because of size, obstructions, and/or steepness of slope, the areas should be heavily raked in a manner that will expose soil to ensure
good seed-to-soil contact will occur. Deep raking is not the preferred method of installation because it disturbs the soil and may expose the site to excessive weed growth; however in some cases this is the only
viable method of seed installation. If soil is disturbed to the point that it is bare soil, stabilization with temporary erosion control blanket may be necessary.
Dry-Mesic Prairie- General Stewardship Recommendations
1. The dry-mesic prairie areas should be stewarded carefully with particular care taken in the selection and timing of herbicide application to minimize impact on both wildlife and human recreation.
2. In areas that have been seeded, plants will need to be maintained at a height of 6”-8” through mowing to reduce competition from weed species. Mowing should be conducted periodically during the growing
season for the first two years and can be done mechanically in most areas. Sensitive areas with wetter soils will need to be mown by hand at the same time intervals.
3. Prairie restorations should be monitored carefully for invasive species. When invasive species are encountered, they should be carefully sprayed with herbicide, cut back, or pulled by hand, depending on the
species type. Anytime invasive species are removed, native seed and/or plugs should be planted in their place.
4. When a newly planted prairie has become established (typically after the 2nd-3rd growing season), a prescribed fire program can generally begin. Prescribed fire was a frequent part of pre-European settlement
prairie ecosystems and served to maintain the integrity of the prairie by stimulating plant growth, preventing brush encroachment, and recycling nutrients. In a prairie restoration, fire will perform these historic
functions, as well as help to manage some invasive species.
Projected Stewardship Costs:
Years 1-3: $32,500.00 - $65,000.00 (520 hours), Years 4-5: $23,125.00 - $46,250.00 (370 hours), Years 6+ Annual Cost (RxFire additional $4,500): $3,125.00 - $6,250.00 (50 hours)
Figure 20. Dry-Mesic Prairie 1.1a
Plant Community Key
Figure 21. Dry-Mesic Prairie 1.1b
Restoration Plan: Prairie 1.1 (Dry-Mesic Prairie)
Mesic Prairie (1.2): Existing Site Conditions Summary
Most of the mesic prairie areas were restored through the local Kiwanis club and seem to be in good to fair condition with the dominant plant species through all quality gradients being tall goldenrod, Canada
goldenrod, Ohio spiderwort, annual fleabane and an assortment of native sedges. A turkey was raised during our site investigation, its nest contained 8 eggs (See Photo 25).
1.2a – These areas contain slightly higher quality (more conservative) plant species, including compass plant, beebalm, yellow coneflower, rattlesnake master, wild white indigo, foxglove beardtongue, wild
quinine, prairie dock, common mountain mint, stiff goldenrod, black-eyed susan, tall coreopsis and higher rates of Ohio spiderwort. Drier areas contain a populations of prairie grasses such as Indian grass, little
bluestem and big bluestem. These areas also contain slightly less tall goldenrod, Canada goldenrod and invasive species.
• The north boundary of the mesic prairie area running along the south edge of S. Skare Court road is heavily infested with giant ragweed. We recommend that the Park District begin mowing this strip to
eliminate the population and either re-establish native prairie plants or plant a hedgerow of American hazelnut, an attractive medium-large native shrub.
Basic Restoration/Reconstruction: $4,700.00 - $9,370.00 (80 hours), Advanced Restoration/Reconstruction: N/A
1.2b – These areas contain many of the same native species as 1.2a, however their coverage and distribution are much reduced and these areas tend to be more dominated by tall goldenrod and contain a higher
concentration of non-native/invasive species, especially cool-season turf grasses.
Basic Restoration/Reconstruction: $16,840.00 - $22,910.00 (105 hours), Advanced Restoration/Reconstruction: $229,000.00 - $307,080.00 (1,375 hours)
1.2c – These areas contain low quality native species, dominated mainly by tall goldenrod and contain a higher concentration of non-native/invasive species.
Basic Restoration/Reconstruction: $6,870.00 - $9,385.00 (45 hours), Advanced Restoration/Reconstruction: $87,150.00 - $134,285.00 (640 hours)
Mesic Prairie- General Restoration Recommendations
1. Priorities should be to 1.) eliminate all woody growth; 2.) control Invasive species, especially wild parsnip, Queen Anne’s lace and cool-season turf grasses; 3.) control aggressive, low-quality native species,
especially woody saplings and tall & Canada goldenrod; and 4.) install supplemental native mesic prairie seed and plugs to establish plants in poorly performing areas and to increase overall plant diversity
(especially in 1.2b).
2. Remove trees and invasive shrubs less than 6” in diameter (i.e. honeysuckle, buckthorn, gray dogwood, etc.). Cutting should be done by hand and take place in the fall or winter when the ground is dry and/or
to non-target species).
surrounding vegetation. Apply 20% Garlon4e to the cut stump immediately after cutting. Cut material can be chipped and used for trails if preferred; otherwise it should be removed from each site and disposed
of in an appropriate manner.
Figure 22. Mesic Prairie 1.2a
o Invasive species: Selectively apply herbicide to invasive species to control their population and reduce competition with native species. Do not allow any invasive species
and/or weedy native species to reproduce on-site. Brush-cut or mow plants that are in flower prior to them producing viable seed.
o To reduce the amount of tall & Canada goldenrod, selective herbicide applications can be applied throughout the growing season. Timed mowing can also be effective, mow down
the plant when it is producing its flower in late summer-fall. This will reduce energy stores in the root system which will damage some plants but will make herbicide applications the
following year much more effective. Mowing will also prevent seed production.
o Large areas of vegetation within 1.2b and 1.2c can be completely eradicated in preparation for native seeding. Utilize a boom-sprayer to apply a non-selective, non-persistent
herbicide (such as Glyphosate) to the entire stand of vegetation. Once the vegetation is browned-out, remove the biomass by mowing or prescribed fire prior to installing native seed.
o Cool season turf-grasses can be treated by boom-spraying a non-selective, non-persistent herbicide (such as Glyphosate) on the prairie areas in early spring or late fall when
native species are dormant. If desirable cool-season native broadleaf species and/or sedge species are present, the use of a grass specific herbicide (such as Intensity) may be
required.
Figure 27. Skare Park view of 1.2a, Rochelle IL.
1.2 Mesic Prairie
(10.01 Acres, Priorities 4, 5, 7, 8 & Phase II)
5. Utilize a Truax native seed drill to install selected native plant seed mix to create new prairie areas (as necessary in 1.2b and 1.2c) or to enhance existing areas. Plant species should be selected specifically for
the site. See Appendix A for a list of recommended plant material for installation in prairie areas. Long-term, implement a tree planting plan that restores the historic woodland ecosystem as displayed in Phase III.
Mesic Prairie- General Stewardship Recommendations
1. The mesic prairie areas should be stewarded carefully with particular care taken in the selection and timing of herbicide application to minimize impact on both wildlife and human recreation.
4. When a newly planted prairie has become established (typically after the 2nd-3rd growing season), a prescribed fire program can generally begin. Prescribed fire was a frequent part of pre-European
settlement prairie ecosystems and served to maintain the integrity of the prairie by stimulating plant growth, preventing brush encroachment, and recycling nutrients. In a prairie restoration, fire will perform
these historic functions, as well as help to manage some invasive species.
Figure 23. Mesic Prairie 1.2b
Years 1-3: $50,000.00 - $100,000.00 (800 hours), Years 4-5: $31,250.00 - $62,500.00 (500 hours), Years 6+ Annual Cost (Rx Fire Additional $4,500): $3,125.00 - $6,250.00 (80 hours)
Plant Community Key
Figure 24. Mesic Prairie 1.2c
Figure 25. Turkey nest found in the mesic prairie area
Figure 26. Mesic Prairie 1.2b cool season grass dominant area
Restoration Plan: Prairie 1.2 (Mesic Prairie)
Wet-Mesic Prairie (1.3): Existing Site Conditions Summary
The wet-mesic prairie areas contain both remnant vegetation and restored native vegetation. The wet-mesic prairie located directly north of the agricultural field appears to be remnant and is predominantly
composed of tall goldenrod and Canada goldenrod interspersed with patches of reed canarygrass and a mixture of native and non-native shrubs. This area also contains an established grouping of common reed, a
highly invasive species whose eradication should be a high priority. There is also a high level of high-quality native species distributed throughout this area including spotted Joe-Pye weed, common mountain mint,
Canada germander and several species of native sedges and rushes can be found growing in abundance. The wet-mesic prairie areas located south of the agricultural field were restored through the local Kiwanis
club and are comprised of tall goldenrod, Canada Goldenrod, yellow coneflower, beebalm, Ohio spiderwort, blue vervain and an array of prairie grasses, sedges and rushes.
1.3a – These areas contain slightly higher quality (more conservative) plant species than the other areas and contain slightly less tall goldenrod, Canada goldenrod and invasive species.
1.3b – These areas contain a good distribution of native plant species, including grass-leaved goldenrod, common mountain mint, Ohio spiderwort, spotted Joe-Pye weed and several species of sedges and rushes,
mainly fox sedge and dark green rush. Drier areas contain populations of prairie grasses such as Indian grass and big bluestem. Although the native plant content is typically good throughout these areas, they
contain significant amounts of tall goldenrod, Canada goldenrod and invasive species, especially reed canarygrass.
1.3c – These areas contain low quality native species, dominated mainly by tall goldenrod and contain a higher concentration of non-native/invasive species, especially wild parsnip.
Wet-Mesic Prairie- General Restoration Recommendations
1. Priorities should be to 1.) eliminate all woody growth; 2.) control Invasive species, especially common reed, wild parsnip and reed canarygrass; 3.) control aggressive, low-quality native species, especially woody
saplings and tall & Canada goldenrod; and 4.) install supplemental native wet-mesic prairie seed and plugs to establish plants in poorly performing areas and to increase overall plant diversity (especially in 1.3c).
1.3 Mesic-Wet Prairie
2. Remove trees and invasive shrubs less than 6” in diameter (i.e. honeysuckle, buckthorn, gray dogwood*, etc.). Cutting should be done by hand and take place in the fall or winter when the ground is dry and/or
o *We recommend that approximately 50% of the existing gray dogwood groupings in the remnant area north of the agricultural field do not get removed in order to provide additional habitat and
cover for small bird species. Currently these dogwood groupings are encroaching on the adjacent pathway. Stewardship should include managing the spread of this species so that it is kept 5-10
feet away from the edge of the trail. See Figure X for an example of Gray Dogwood found on site.
o Invasive species: Selectively apply herbicide to invasive species to control their population and reduce competition with native species. Do not allow any invasive species and/or weedy native
species to reproduce on-site. Brush-cut or mow plants that are in flower prior to them producing viable seed.
 To eliminate common reed, mow or burn existing biomass (Spring or Fall). Apply an aquatic approved herbicide to the entire stand when seed heads begin to develop (Summer).
Monitor for re-sprouts/previously missed individual plants and selectively apply herbicide (Summer-Fall). Monitor for reestablishment of native species (e.g. sedges) and, if necessary,
create a plan for re-vegetation utilizing native species. Continue this process until common reed is eradicated.
 To eliminate reed canarygrass, mow or burn existing biomass (Fall or Spring). Apply an aquatic approved herbicide to the entire stand in late spring/early summer, prior to seed heads
developing. Monitor for individual plants missed and re-apply herbicide as needed until 100% brown-out is achieved. Do not allow any plants to produce and distribute seed, mow the
stand if necessary. Mow or burn biomass (Fall or Spring), Monitor for germination of previous year’s seed crop and re-generation of rhizome mat, re-apply herbicide as necessary
throughout the season to achieve 100% kill of stand.
o To reduce the amount of tall & Canada goldenrod, selective herbicide applications can be applied throughout the growing season. Timed mowing can also be effective, mow down the plant when it
is producing its flower in late summer-fall. This will reduce energy stores in the root system which will damage some plants but will make herbicide applications the following year much more
effective. Mowing will also prevent seed production.
o Large areas of vegetation within 1.3c can be completely eradicated in preparation for native seeding. Utilize a boom-sprayer to apply a non-selective, non-persistent herbicide (such as Glyphosate)
to the entire stand of vegetation. Once the vegetation is browned-out, remove the biomass by mowing or prescribed fire prior to installing native seed.
o Cool season turf-grasses can b160 by boom-spraying a non-selective, non-persistent herbicide (such as Glyphosate) on the prairie areas in early spring or late fall when native species are
dormant. If desirable cool-season native broadleaf species and/or sedge species are present, the use of a grass specific herbicide (such as Intensity) may be required.
Figure 29. Wet-Mesic Prairie 1.3a
5. Utilize a Truax native seed drill to install selected native plant seed mix to create new prairie areas (as necessary in 1.3b and 1.3c) or to enhance existing areas. Plant species should be selected specifically for the
site. See Appendix A for a list of recommended plant material for installation in prairie areas. Long-term, implement a tree planting plan that restores the historic woodland ecosystem as displayed in Phase III.
Figure 30. Wet-Mesic Prairie 1.3b with shrubs in the background
Wet-Mesic Prairie- General Stewardship Recommendations
1. The wet-mesic prairie areas should be stewarded carefully with particular care taken in the selection and timing of herbicide application to minimize impact on both wildlife and human recreation. Control of
gray dogwood populations should be included in the wet-mesic prairie stewardship.
Plant Community Key
4. When a newly planted prairie has become established (typically after the 2nd-3rd growing season), a prescribed fire program can generally begin. Prescribed fire was a frequent part of pre-European settlement
prairie ecosystems and served to maintain the integrity of the prairie by stimulating plant growth, preventing brush encroachment, and recycling nutrients. In a prairie restoration, fire will perform these historic
functions, as well as help to manage some invasive species.
Years 1-3: $87,500.00 - $175,000.00 (1,400 hours), Years 4-5: $46,875.00 - $93,750.00 (750 hours), Years 6+ Annual Cost (Rx Fire Additional $4,500): $9,375.00 - $18,750.00 (150 hours)
Figure 31. Wet-Mesic Prairie 1.3c
Restoration Plan: Prairie 1.3 (Wet-Mesic Prairie)
Sedge Meadow Wetlands (2.1): Existing Site Conditions Summary
Once common throughout Illinois, sedge meadow wetlands typically formed in saturated soils between wet prairies and marshes.
2.1a – The western section of the wetland, north of the creek, as well as a smaller section along the woodland border south of the creek contains a high-quality tussock sedge meadow. Tussock sedge is the
dominant species with a mix of other native wetland species, primarily Joe-Pye weed, hairy fruited lake sedge, fox sedge, common mountain mint, prairie cordgrass and narrow-leaved loosestrife. This is an
exciting find as it is certainly a remnant ecosystem remaining from pre-European settlement! Due to extensive draining of marshlands for agriculture, today tussock sedge meadows are a rare ecosystem in the
Midwest and are historically rare in Ogle County, thought to only occupy approximately 0.38 square miles throughout the entire County. These are tremendously important ecosystems according to researcher Joy
Zedler from the University of Wisconsin – Madison. She states that tussock sedges (Carex stricta) support dozens of plant species, soak up excess water, sequester carbon, remove agricultural run-off, aerate the
soil, and create habitat for numerous small mammals, including the preferred habitat for sedge wrens!
• Note: There is a small established colony of common reed, a highly invasive species whose eradication should be a high priority, was observed growing along the creek toward the center-west area of the main
2.1a wetland.
2.1b – These areas are high quality sedge meadow wetlands that are not dominated by tussock sedges, however they do contain high-quality wetland plants including Joe-Pye weed, blue vervain, hairy-fruited
lake sedge, and occasional weedy patches of Canada thistle and reed canarygrass. A small area to the north of the creek is comprised of prairie cordgrass interspersed with dark green rush and narrow-leaved
loosestrife. Areas directly adjacent to the creek are dominated by the invasive species reed canarygrass interspersed with rice cut grass, which is a quality native grass. Occasional shrubs include cranberry bush
viburnum and gray dogwood.
• Note: Areas that have been disturbed by beaver dam removal contain weedy species including common mullein, Canada thistle and cocklebur.
2.1c – These areas contain a good distribution of native plant species, including hairy fruited lake sedge, Joe-Pye weed, common mountain mint, and several species of sedges and rushes, mainly fox sedge and
dark green rush. Although the native plant content is typically good throughout these areas, they contain significant amounts of tall goldenrod, Canada goldenrod and invasive species, especially reed canarygrass.
Some areas are dominated by reed canarygrass. Some areas are dominated by reed canarygrass.
Sedge Meadow Wetlands- General Restoration Recommendations
1. Priorities should be to 1.) control Invasive species, especially common reed, reed canary grass and Canada thistle; 2.) eliminate all woody growth, especially sandbar willow; 3.) control aggressive, low-quality
native species, especially woody saplings and tall & Canada goldenrod; and 4.) install supplemental native wetland seed and plugs to establish plants in poorly performing areas and to increase overall plant
diversity (especially in 2.1c).
2. Remove trees and invasive shrubs less than 6” in diameter (i.e. sandbar willow*, buckthorn, gray dogwood**, etc.). Cutting should be done by hand and take place in the fall or winter when the ground is dry
and/or frozen to minimize impact on the soil structure. Apply 20% Garlon4e to the cut stump immediately after cutting. Apply 2% Garlon3a to foliage of target woody species during the growing season (avoid
overspray to non-target species).
o *See the section on beaver, select willow groves may need to be saved if the Park District decides to allow beaver to remain on-site.
o **There is an existing grove of viburnum and dogwood in the western area of the Sedge Meadow Wetland that should not be removed in order to provide habitat and cover for
small bird species.
surrounding vegetation. Apply 20% Garlon4e to the cut stump immediately after cutting. Cut material can be chipped and used for trails if preferred; otherwise it should be removed from each site and disposed
of in an appropriate manner.
Figure 32. Sedge Meadow 2.1a
Figure 33. Sedge Meadow 2.1b
2.1 Sedge Meadow Wetlands
o Invasive species: Selectively apply aquatic approved herbicide to invasive species to control their population and reduce competition with native species. Do not
allow any invasive species and/or weedy native species to reproduce on-site. Brush-cut or mow plants that are in flower prior to them producing viable seed.
 To eliminate common reed, mow or burn existing biomass (Spring or Fall). Apply an aquatic approved herbicide to the entire stand when seed heads begin to develop (Summer).
Monitor for re-sprouts/previously missed individual plants and selectively apply herbicide (Summer-Fall). Monitor for reestablishment of native species (e.g. sedges) and, if necessary,
create a plan for re-vegetation utilizing native species. Continue this process until common reed is eradicated.
 To eliminate reed canarygrass, mow or burn existing biomass (Fall or Spring). Apply an aquatic approved herbicide to the entire stand in late spring/early summer, prior to seed
heads developing. Monitor for individual plants missed and re-apply herbicide as needed until 100% brown-out is achieved. Do not allow any plants to produce and distribute seed,
mow the stand if necessary. Mow or burn biomass (Fall or Spring), Monitor for germination of previous year’s seed crop and re-generation of rhizome mat, re-apply herbicide as
necessary throughout the season to achieve 100% kill of stand.
o Large areas of vegetation within 2.1c can be completely eradicated in preparation for native seeding. Utilize a boom-sprayer to apply a non-selective, non-persistent
herbicide (such as Glyphosate) to the entire stand of vegetation. Once the vegetation is browned-out, remove the biomass by mowing or prescribed fire prior to installing
native seed and/or plugs.
5. Install wetland appropriate seed and live plants within existing wetland areas. See Appendix A for recommended species lists. Any areas with bare soil should be seeded with native seed & cover crop,
blanketed with an appropriate erosion control mat (if necessary), and planted with native plugs. Installing plugs in these areas will promote the establishment of vegetation under fluctuating water levels, and will
increase the rate at which wetlands are re-vegetated.
Sedge Meadow Wetlands- General Stewardship Recommendations
1. The sedge meadow wetland areas should be stewarded carefully with particular care taken in the selection and timing of herbicide application to minimize impact on both wildlife and human recreation.
2. In areas that have been seeded/planted, plants will need to be maintained at a height of 6”-8” through mowing to reduce competition from weed species. Mowing should be conducted periodically during the
growing season for the first two years and can be done mechanically only if the ground is excessively dry or frozen to prevent rutting and soil compaction. Sensitive areas with wetter soils will need to be mown by
hand at the same time intervals.
3. Wetland restorations should be monitored carefully for invasive species. When invasive species are encountered, they should be carefully sprayed with herbicide, cut back, or pulled by hand, depending on the
4. When a newly planted sedge meadow wetland has become established (typically after the 2nd-3rd growing season), a prescribed fire program can generally begin. Prescribed fire was a frequent part of preEuropean settlement prairie ecosystems and served to maintain the integrity of the prairie by stimulating plant growth, preventing brush encroachment, and recycling nutrients. In a wetland restoration, fire will
perform these historic functions, as well as help to manage some invasive species.
Years 1-3: 114,375.00 - $228,750.00 (1,830 hours), Years 4-5: $59,375.00 - $118,750.00 (950 hours), Years 6+ Annual Cost (Rx Fire Additional $5,500): $12,500.00 - $25,000.00 (200 hours)
Figure 34. Sedge Meadow 2.1c
NOTES: Extreme caution must be taken when burning remnant wetland systems, thousands of years of root development and organic matter build-up in the soils may have resulted in the creation of a deep peat
organic soil. There is a risk of the peat material catching fire below ground and burning for extended periods of time with the potential of carrying fire under ground and off of the property. Tussock sedges can
be sensitive to fire if burned during drought or if the organic soils are allowed to burn, therefore it is critical that any fire be managed appropriately so that it does not damage the tussock sedge community. Fire
should only be used in the tussock sedge areas periodically (every 3-5 years) and the prescription fire should accommodate its sensitivity.
Restoration Plan: Wetlands 2.1 (Sedge Meadow)
Plant Community Key
Drainage Swale Wetlands (2.2): Existing Site Conditions Summary
Several drainage swales are established throughout the site that conveys water from the uplands to the Kyte River. Most drainage swales occurring in the prairie or wetland are stable; however drainage swales
occurring within the woodlands are displaying an erosive character, mainly due to lack of herbaceous vegetation establishment.
2.2a – Dark green rush dominates the drainage swale within the restored prairie along with fox sedge, thimbleweed, bedstraw, rattlesnake master, common boneset, and other wetland and wet prairie-seeking
species. Cattails are becoming established in a portion of this swale and should be monitored for aggressiveness and eradicated if necessary.
Basic Restoration/Reconstruction: $965.00 - 1,895.00 (15 hours), Advanced Restoration/Reconstruction: N/A
2.2b – In the southeast corner of Skare Park, near the entrance, there is a small drainage swale containing mostly reed canarygrass, common jewelweed, and common beggar-ticks.
Drainage Swale Wetlands- General Restoration Recommendations
1. Priorities should be to 1.) control Invasive species, especially reed canary grass and Canada thistle; 2.) eliminate all woody growth; 3.) control aggressive, low-quality native species, especially woody saplings and
tall & Canada goldenrod; and 4.) install supplemental native wetland seed and plugs to establish plants in poorly performing areas and to increase overall plant diversity (especially in 2.2b).
2. Remove trees and invasive shrubs less than 6” in diameter (i.e. sandbar willow, buckthorn, gray dogwood, etc.). Cutting should be done by hand and take place in the fall or winter when the ground is dry and/or
2.2 Drainage Swale Wetlands
o Invasive species: Selectively apply aquatic approved herbicide to invasive species to control their population and reduce competition with native species. Do not allow any invasive species and/or
weedy native species to reproduce on-site. Brush-cut or mow plants that are in flower prior to them producing viable seed.
 To eliminate reed canarygrass, mow or burn existing biomass (Fall or Spring). Apply an aquatic approved herbicide to the entire stand in late spring/early summer, prior to seed heads
developing. Monitor for individual plants missed and re-apply herbicide as needed until 100% brown-out is achieved. Do not allow any plants to produce and distribute seed, mow the
stand if necessary. Mow or burn biomass (Fall or Spring), Monitor for germination of previous year’s seed crop and re-generation of rhizome mat, re-apply herbicide as necessary
throughout the season to achieve 100% kill of stand.
o Large areas of vegetation within 2.2b can be completely eradicated in preparation for native seeding. Utilize a boom-sprayer to apply a non-selective, non-persistent herbicide (such as Glyphosate)
to the entire stand of vegetation. Once the vegetation is browned-out, remove the biomass by mowing or prescribed fire prior to installing native seed and/or plugs.
5. Install wetland appropriate seed and live plants within existing wetland areas. See Appendix A for recommended species lists. Any areas with bare soil should be seeded with native seed & cover crop, blanketed
with an appropriate erosion control mat (if necessary), and planted with native plugs. Installing plugs in these areas will promote the establishment of vegetation under fluctuating water levels, and will increase
the rate at which wetlands are re-vegetated. Long-term, implement a tree planting plan that restores the historic woodland ecosystem as displayed in Phase III.
Figure 37. Drainage Swale 2.2a
Drainage Swale Wetlands- General Stewardship Recommendations
1. The drainage swale wetland areas should be stewarded carefully with particular care taken in the selection and timing of herbicide application to minimize impact on both wildlife and human recreation.
4. When a newly planted drainage swale wetland has become established (typically after the 2nd-3rd growing season), a prescribed fire program can generally begin. Prescribed fire was a frequent part of preEuropean settlement prairie ecosystems and served to maintain the integrity of the prairie by stimulating plant growth, preventing brush encroachment, and recycling nutrients. In a wetland restoration, fire will
Years 1-3: $22,500 - $45,000.00 (360 hours), Years 4-5: $18,750.00 - $37,500.00 (300 hours), Years 6+ Annual Cost (Rx Fire Additional $2,400): $1,875.00 - $3,750.00 (30 hours)
Figure 38. Drainage Swale 2.2b
Plant Community Key
Figure 39. Reed Canarygrass is a common invasive species found
along the majority of the prairie and wetland sites
Restoration Plan: Wetlands 2.2 (Drainage Swale)
Shoreline/Floodplain Wetlands (2.3): Existing Site Conditions Summary
2.3 - Low-lying areas along the Kyte River dominated by reed canary grass and Canada thistle with occasional native plants including riverbank sedge, golden alexanders, pickerel weed, swanp milkweed, wild
goldenglow and Joe-Pye weed. There are also groves of downy hawthorn established in this area.
Drainage Swale Wetlands- General Restoration Recommendations
1. Priorities should be to 1.) control Invasive species, especially reed canary grass; 2.) eliminate unwanted woody growth; 3.) control aggressive, low-quality native species, especially woody saplings and tall &
Canada goldenrod; and 4.) install supplemental native wetland seed and plugs to establish plants in poorly performing areas and to increase overall plant diversity.
2. Remove trees and invasive shrubs less than 6” in diameter (i.e. sandbar willow, buckthorn, honeysuckle, etc.). Cutting should be done by hand and take place in the fall or winter when the ground is dry and/or
o Invasive species: Selectively apply aquatic approved herbicide to invasive species to control their population and reduce competition with native species. Do not allow any invasive species and/or weedy native species to reproduce on-site. Brush-cut or mow plants that are in flower prior to them producing viable seed.
o Large areas of vegetation within 2.3 can be completely eradicated in preparation for native seeding. Utilize a boom-sprayer to apply a non-selective, non-persistent herbicide (such as Glyphosate) to the entire stand of vegetation. Once the vegetation is browned-out, remove the biomass by mowing or prescribed fire prior to installing native seed and/or plugs.
5. Install shoreline/floodplain appropriate seed and live plants within existing wetland areas. See Appendix A for recommended species lists. Any areas with bare soil should be seeded with native seed & cover
crop, blanketed with an appropriate erosion control mat (if necessary), and planted with native plugs. Installing plugs in these areas will promote the establishment of vegetation under fluctuating water levels, and
will increase the rate at which wetlands are re-vegetated. Long-term, implement a tree planting plan that restores the historic woodland ecosystem as displayed in Phase III.
Drainage Swale Wetlands- General Stewardship Recommendations
1. The shoreline/floodplain wetland areas should be stewarded carefully with particular care taken in the selection and timing of herbicide application to minimize impact on both wildlife and human recreation.
Figure 42. Skare Park view of 2.3, Rochelle IL.
2.3 Shoreline/Floodplain Wetlands
4. When a newly planted shoreline/floodplain wetland has become established (typically after the 2nd-3rd growing season), a prescribed fire program can generally begin. Prescribed fire was a frequent part of
pre-European settlement prairie ecosystems and served to maintain the integrity of the prairie by stimulating plant growth, preventing brush encroachment, and recycling nutrients. In a wetland restoration, fire
will perform these historic functions, as well as help to manage some invasive species.
Years 1-3: $22,500.00 - $45,000.00 (360 hours), Year 4-5: $18,750.00 - $37,500.00 (300 hours), Years 6+ Annual Cost (Rx Fire Additional $2,400): $1,875.00 - $3,750.00 (30 hours)
Figure 40. Shoreline/Floodplain 2.3a with native Downy Hawthorn
(Crataegus mollis) along the shoreline
Plant Community Key
Figure 41. Shoreline/Floodplain 2.3a shoreline with Reed
Canarygrass (Phalaris arundinacea)
Restoration Plan: Wetlands 2.3 (Shoreline/Floodplain)
Wooded Bluff (3.1): Existing Site Conditions Summary
3.1 – This area runs along the north side of the Kyte River. A very steep slope rises from the edge of the Kyte and its floodplain to 20-30’ elevation above the River’s surface. Along this slope are scattered various
sized Burr Oak and Shagbark Hickory trees at fairly wide spacing. The ground plane is infested with invasive Japanese honeysuckle brush and garlic mustard. Also noticeable growing amongst the honeysuckle are
Pennsylvania sedge, wood sedge, Solomon’s seal and wild rye.
Base Restoration/Reconstruction: $29,920.00 - $50,310.00 (370 hours), Advanced Restoration/Reconstruction: $42,520.00 - $69,790.00 (460 hours)
Wooded Bluff- General Restoration Recommendations
1. Priorities should be to 1.) eliminate invasive woody growth, especially Japanese honeysuckle, black locust, mulberry and multiflora rose; 2.) control Invasive species, especially garlic mustard; 3.) install
supplemental native savanna seed and plugs to establish plants in poorly performing areas and to increase overall plant diversity; 4.) control aggressive, low-quality native species, especially basswood,
cottonwood, elm, ash, boxelder, black cherry, chokecherry, poison ivy, riverbank grape vine; and 5.)Install new native canopy & understory tree species.
2. Remove non-native trees and invasive shrubs less than 6” in diameter (i.e. honeysuckle, buckthorn, chokecherry, etc.). Cutting should be done by hand and take place in the fall or winter when the ground is
dry and/or frozen to minimize impact on the soil structure. Apply 20% Garlon4e to the cut stump immediately after cutting. Apply 2% Garlon3a to foliage of target woody species during the growing season (avoid
3. Mature Trees: Selectively thin mature non-Oak canopy trees to allow light to penetrate the canopy and promote growth of the herbaceous layer where necessary. Thinning and removing of trees should also
be done during the dormant season to minimize impact on soils and surrounding vegetation. Apply 20% Garlon4e to the cut stump immediately after cutting. Cut material can be chipped and used for trails if
preferred; otherwise it should be removed from each site and disposed of in an appropriate manner.
o Invasive species: Selectively apply herbicide to invasive species to control their population and reduce competition with native species. Do not allow
any invasive species and/or weedy native species to reproduce on-site. Brush-cut or mow plants that are in flower prior to them producing viable seed.
o Large areas of vegetation within 3.1 can be completely eradicated in preparation for native seeding. Utilize a boom-sprayer to apply a non-selective,
non-persistent herbicide (such as Glyphosate) to the entire stand of vegetation. Once the vegetation is browned-out, remove the biomass by mowing or
prescribed fire prior to installing native seed and/or plugs.
5. Prescribed Fire: After initial clearing has been completed conduct a prescribed fire within the designated wooded bluff site to eliminate biomass, expose the soil and deter invasive species. Prescribed fire
should be conducted after clearing has occurred to allow for proper drying and accumulation of fuels.
3.1 Wooded Bluff
(2.05 Acres, Priorities 1, 4, 8 & Phase II)
6. Plant Species List: Inventory the site after the initial prescribed fire and clearing, noting any new species that recover now that light is reaching the ground plain. Species lists are attached in Appendix A that
contain recommendations for the wooded bluff area. Following a prescribed fire, refine the attached seeding lists to enhance plant diversity and density using this data. Supplemental seeding should ideally be
done by hand after a burn. Supplemental planting of ephemeral plants can be conducted over a multi-year period to enhance the quality of the wooded bluff understory. Some ephemerals are not available by
seed and/or do not grow well from seed, such as Shooting Star, and will have to be added by installing live plants/plugs. Plant inventories can be continued indefinitely if staff/volunteers are available to conduct
them regularly. While continued inventories are not necessary for ecosystem health once established and a good comprehensive stewardship program is in place, inventory data can be included in educational
materials for classes, as well as provide data for future management and enhancement efforts if required.
7. Tree Replacement: Begin a tree replacement planting program to ensure the next generation of native trees is in place as older trees decline. Tree replacement should focus on restoring the wooded bluff
ecosystem that occurred prior to European settlement. Stem densities for canopy trees should average between 10 – 25 trees per acre consisting of approximately 30% bur oak, 20% black oak, 8% white oak, 6%
hickory and a fairly even spattering of elm, ash, basswood, black walnut and black cherry. Understory trees and shrubs should also be planted, consisting mainly of common witch hazel, eastern redbud, downy
hawthorn, eastern red juniper, elderberry, American hazelnut and chokecherry. Ideally, new saplings will be found growing within the wooded bluff area, which are offspring of the existing historic tree canopy.
When saplings are found on-site they should be protected from deer browse and fire until they reach a caliper of approximately 3-4 inches. Very young saplings may be dug and transplanted to a different forest
location if desired. If the numbers of tree saplings are insufficient to replicate historic stem density counts, trees should be planted to re-establish the desired dense overhead tree canopy. See also Appendix A for
a list of recommended woody species. We recommend planting smaller statured trees (1”-1.5” caliper) that will acclimate more quickly. Trees grown in #15 size containers are the best option, either grown using
pot-in-pot production or the Root Production Method…avoid balled & burlaped tree stock if possible. Again, protect newly planted trees from deer browse and fire until they reach a size of 3-4” in caliper.
Figure 46. Wooded Bluff 3.1a
Wooded Bluff- General Stewardship Recommendations
1. The wooded bluff areas should be stewarded carefully with particular care taken in the selection and timing of herbicide application to minimize impact on both wildlife and human recreation.
3. Conduct careful monitoring and herbicide treatment/hand-pulling of invasive species such as garlic mustard and honeysuckle should be carried out monthly. In areas of high diversity, selective herbicides should
be chosen whenever applicable and should always be applied carefully with a backpack sprayer or by hand-wicking to prevent overspray. When effective, hand-pull undesirable plants by hand ensuring removal of
the root system and all reproductive parts. Anytime invasive species are removed, native seed and/or plugs should be planted in their place.
4. Conduct cutting and herbicide treatments of re-sprouts from honeysuckle, multiflora rose and other invasive woody plants that have re-sprouted from the initial clearing.
5. Continue the application of prescribed fire to manage weeds and stimulate native plant growth after newly seeded vegetation has become established. Because this area historically does not appear to have
burned as regularly as other Midwestern ecosystems, a staggered burn schedule may be desirable, focusing on a fall burning schedule. Note: newly seeded areas should be allowed to establish for 2-3 growing
seasons prior to prescribed fire application.
Figure 47. Wooded Bluff 3.1b
Years 1-3: $32,500.00 - $65,000.00 (520 hours), Year 4-5: $23,125.00 - $46,250.00 (370 hours), Years 6+ Annual Cost (Rx Fire Additional $3,600): $3,125.00 - $6,250.00 (50 hours)
Plant Community Key
Figure 44. Wooded Bluff 3.1a with uncleared invasive honeyscuckle
(Lonicera japonica)
Figure 45. Wooded Bluff 3.1b with uncleared invasive honeyscuckle
(Lonicera japonica) and black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia)
Figure 48. Pennsylvania Sedge (Carex pennsylvanica) is an indicator
species for once thriving woodland and savanna habitats
Restoration Plan: Woodland 3.1 (Wooded Bluff)
Upland Woodland (3.2): Existing Site Conditions Summary
According to historic land surveys, it is likely that most of Skare Park would have been composed of upland oak-hickory woodland and savanna rather than prairie. Currently the upland wooded areas at Skare
Park typically contain 30-50 trees per acre including oak, walnut, hickory, cherry, elm, basswood, and maple. Many of the existing upland woodland areas can be considered remnant, however decades of fire
suppression, inactive management, invasive species and deer browse have severely degraded the herbaceous understory in most sections. Inappropriate use of prescribed fire witnessed in Figure 51 in recent
years may have also contributed to the decline of herbaceous species, particularly spring ephemerals if burning was conducted in the spring after they had emerged. Most damaging has been the infestation of
Japanese honeysuckle brush as well as an overabundance of native understory trees, such as chokecherry. Portions of the park have been cleared of invasive honeysuckle shrubs over the last year, though many
uncleared areas remain. In the southeast corner of Skare Park, large white and burr oaks stand in an area that is currently kept mowed. Spring beauties, able to complete their life-cycle before mowing begins in
the spring, have been able to withstand human disturbance. Floyd Swink notes spring beauties are one of the last native spring wildflowers able to withstand significant disturbance of a native woodland. Other
wildflowers near the park entrance in wooded areas include common violet, false Solomon’s seal, mayapple and Jacob’s ladder. Woody species include American cranberrybush (Viburnum trilobum), raspberries
(Rubus spp.), and occasional ash saplings (Fraxinus spp.). There is an abundance of first year garlic mustard basal leaves throughout most upland woodland areas. Other herbaceous species observed included
woodland sedge (Carex blanda), violets, wild geranium, wild leek and Jack-in-the-pulpit. Other woody species included cockspur hawthorn, downy hawthorn, common witch hazel, eastern redbud, poison Ivy,
Virginia creeper, wild cucumber, Missouri gooseberry and multiflora rose rather than prairie. Groves of American plum (Prunus americana) a native understory tree to Illinois can also be found in portions of 3.2a.
3.2a – These areas of the upland woodland display the highest quality, oldest-growth native woodland trees and have the greatest potential for restoration. They also house the most herbaceous species diversity,
lending themselves to be most likely of remnant character, including wild leek, pussy toes, American bellflower, Pennsylvania oak sedge, James’s sedge, curly-styled wood sedge, wood sedge, spring beauty, silky
wild rye, wild geranium, yellow avens, hairy sweet cicely, may apple, jacob’s ladder, Virginia knotweed, bloodroot, jack-in-the-pulpit, wild garlic, dogtooth violet, early meadow rue and red trillium.
Basic Restoration/Reconstruction: $141,940.00 - $209,990.00 (1,100 hours), Advanced Restoration/Reconstruction: $233,330.00 - $333,275.00 (1,750 hours)
3.2b – These areas of the upland woodland display some high quality, old-growth native woodland trees mixed with some successional growth. Although the native plant content is typically good throughout these
areas, they contain significant amounts of invasive species, especially Japanese honeysuckle, garlic mustard and multiflora rose.
Upland Woodland- General Restoration Recommendations
1. Priorities should be to 1.) eliminate invasive woody growth, especially Japanese honeysuckle, black locust, mulberry and multiflora rose; 2.) control Invasive species, especially garlic mustard; 3.) control deer
browse; 4.) implement a staggered prescribed fire schedule limited to the fall; 5.) install supplemental native upland woodland seed and plugs to establish plants in poorly performing areas and to increase overall
plant diversity; 6.) control aggressive, low-quality native species, especially basswood, cottonwood, elm, ash, boxelder, black cherry, chokecherry, poison ivy, riverbank grape vine; and 7.)Install new native canopy
& understory tree species.
2. Remove non-native trees and invasive shrubs less than 6” in diameter (i.e. honeysuckle, buckthorn, chokecherry, etc.). Cutting should be done by hand and take place in the fall or winter when the ground is
dry and/or frozen to minimize impact on the soil structure. Apply 20% Garlon4e to the cut stump immediately after cutting. Apply 2% Garlon3a to foliage of target woody species during the growing season (avoid
3.2 Upland Woodland
o Invasive species: Selectively apply herbicide to invasive species to control their population and reduce competition with native species. Do not allow any invasive
species and/or weedy native species to reproduce on-site. Brush-cut or mow plants that are in flower prior to them producing viable seed.
o Large areas of vegetation may require complete eradication in preparation for native seeding. Utilize a boom-sprayer to apply a non-selective, non-persistent herbicide
(such as Glyphosate) to the entire stand of vegetation. Once the vegetation is browned-out, remove the biomass by mowing or prescribed fire prior to installing native
seed and/or plugs.
Figure 49. Upland Woodland 3.2a
5. Prescribed Fire: After initial clearing has been completed conduct a prescribed fire within the designated upland woodland site to eliminate biomass, expose the soil and deter invasive species. Prescribed fire
6. Devise and begin deer browse control tactics (See discussion on deer control).
7. Plant Species List: Inventory the site after the initial prescribed fire, clearing and implementing deer browse control tactics, noting any new species that recover now that light is reaching the ground plain
and reproduction can occur. Species lists are attached in Appendix A that contain recommendations for the upland woodland area. Following a prescribed fire, refine the attached seeding lists to enhance plant
diversity and density using this data. Supplemental seeding should ideally be done by hand after a burn. Supplemental planting of ephemeral plants can be conducted over a multi-year period to enhance
the quality of the upland woodland understory. Some ephemerals are not available by seed and/or do not grow well from seed, such as Shooting Star, and will have to be added by installing live plants/plugs.
Plant inventories can be continued indefinitely if staff/volunteers are available to conduct them regularly. While continued inventories are not necessary for ecosystem health once established and a good
comprehensive stewardship program is in place, inventory data can be included in educational materials for classes, as well as provide data for future management and enhancement efforts if required.
8. Tree Replacement: Begin a tree replacement planting program to ensure the next generation of native trees is in place as older trees decline. Tree replacement should focus on restoring the forested ecosystem
that occurred prior to European settlement. Stem densities for canopy trees should average between 25 – 40 trees per acre consisting of approximately 30% white oak (or swamp white oak in forested wetland
areas), 20% bur oak, 8% red/black Oak, 6% hickory and a fairly even spattering of elm, ash, basswood, sugar maple, hackberry and black cherry. Understory trees and shrubs should also be planted, consisting
mainly of eastern redbud, downy hawthorn, green hawthorn, common witchhazel, viburnum, blue beech, American hazelnut and chokecherry. Ideally, new saplings will be found growing within the forested
area, which are offspring of the existing historic tree canopy. When saplings are found on-site they should be protected from deer browse and fire until they reach a caliper of approximately 3-4 inches. Very young
saplings may be dug and transplanted to a different forest location if desired. If the numbers of tree saplings are insufficient to replicate historic stem density counts, trees should be planted to re-establish the
desired dense overhead tree canopy. See also Appendix A for a list of recommended woody species. We recommend planting smaller statured trees (1”-1.5” caliper) that will acclimate more quickly. Trees grown
in #15 size containers are the best option, either grown using pot-in-pot production or the Root Production Method…avoid balled & burlaped tree stock if possible. Again, protect newly planted trees from deer
browse and fire until they reach a size of 3-4” in caliper.
Figure 50. Upland Woodland 3.2b
Upland Woodland- General Stewardship Recommendations
1. The upland woodland areas should be stewarded carefully with particular care taken in the selection and timing of herbicide application to minimize impact on both wildlife and human recreation.
burned as regularly as other Midwestern ecosystems due to the Kyte River and the northern marsh, a staggered burn schedule may be desirable, focusing on a fall burning schedule. Note: newly seeded areas
should be allowed to establish for 2-3 growing seasons prior to prescribed fire application.
Years 1-3: $121,875.00 - $243,750.00 (1,950 hours), Year 4-5: $63,125.00 - $126,250.00 (1,010 hours), Years 6+ Annual Cost (Rx Fire Additional $6,000): $13,125.00 - $26,250.00 (210 hours)
Plant Community Key
Figure 51. Remnant of prescribed fire found in the upland woodland
area
Restoration Plan: Woodland 3.2 (Upland Woodland)
Wooded Floodplain (3.3): Existing Site Conditions Summary
Wooded floodplains are typically dominated by hydrophytic (water-loving or water-tolerant) trees including silver maple, cottonwood, hackberry, black walnut, American elm, sycamore and green ash. Most
remaining wooded floodplain plant communities in Illinois are disturbed with a high composition of invasive species including reed canarygrass, garlic mustard, moneywort, and buckthorn. While the wooded
floodplain at Skare Park contains many native species including wild golden glow, common jewelweed, cup plant, beggar’s ticks, and buttercups, it is among those sites that have been disturbed by invasive species.
Restoration should focus on reed canarygrass and garlic mustard eradication and planting/dispersal of seed from existing natives on site.
3.3a – These areas of the wooded floodplain display the highest quality, oldest-growth native woodland trees and have the greatest potential for restoration. They also house the most herbaceous species diversity,
lending themselves to be most likely of remnant character.
3.3b – These areas of the wooded floodplain display some high quality, old-growth native woodland trees mixed with a lot of successional growth and plantation/ornamental plantings. Although the native plant
content is typically good throughout these areas, they contain significant amounts of invasive species, especially Japanese honeysuckle, garlic mustard and reed canary grass.
3.3c – These areas of the wooded floodplain display little high quality, old-growth native woodland trees and is composed mainly of successional growth and plantation/ornamental plantings. There is little native
herbaceous growth and they contain significant amounts of invasive species, especially Japanese honeysuckle, garlic mustard and reed canary grass.
Wooded Floodplain- General Restoration Recommendations
1. Priorities should be to 1.) eliminate invasive woody growth, especially Japanese honeysuckle, European alder, black locust, mulberry, buckthorn and multiflora rose; 2.) control Invasive species, especially reed
canary grass and garlic mustard; 3.) install supplemental native wooded floodplain seed and plugs to establish plants in poorly performing areas and to increase overall plant diversity; 4.) control aggressive, lowquality native species, especially boxelder, silver maple, cottonwood, elm, ash and black cherry; and 7.)Install new native canopy & understory tree species.
2. Remove non-native trees and invasive shrubs less than 6” in diameter (i.e. honeysuckle, buckthorn, alder, etc.). Cutting should be done by hand and take place in the fall or winter when the ground is dry and/or
3.3 Wooded Floodplain
PROJECTED TOTAL RESTORATION: $429,020.00 - $1,117,615.00
o Invasive species: Selectively apply herbicide to invasive species to control their population and reduce competition with native species. Do not allow any invasive
species and/or weedy native species to reproduce on-site. Brush-cut or mow plants that are in flower prior to them producing viable seed.
 To eliminate reed canarygrass, mow or burn existing biomass (Fall or Spring). Apply an aquatic approved herbicide to the entire stand in late spring/early summer,
prior to seed heads developing. Monitor for individual plants missed and re-apply herbicide as needed until 100% brown-out is achieved. Do not allow any plants to produce
and distribute seed, mow the stand if necessary. Mow or burn biomass (Fall or Spring), Monitor for germination of previous year’s seed crop and re-generation of rhizome
mat, re-apply herbicide as necessary throughout the season to achieve 100% kill of stand.
o Large areas of vegetation may require complete eradication in preparation for native seeding. Utilize a boom-sprayer to apply a non-selective, non-persistent
herbicide (such as Glyphosate) to the entire stand of vegetation. Once the vegetation is browned-out, remove the biomass by mowing or prescribed fire prior to
installing native seed and/or plugs.
5. Prescribed Fire: After initial clearing has been completed conduct a prescribed fire within the designated wooded floodplain site to eliminate biomass, expose the soil and deter invasive species. Prescribed fire
Figure 54. Wooded Floodplain 3.3a
6. Monitor for damage from deer browse. If deer browse occurs, devise and begin deer browse control tactics (See discussion on deer control).
7. Plant Species List: Inventory the site after the initial prescribed fire, clearing and implementing deer browse control tactics (if necessary), noting any new species that recover now that light is reaching the
ground plain and reproduction can occur. Species lists are attached in Appendix A that contain recommendations for the wooded floodplain area. Following a prescribed fire, refine the attached seeding lists to
enhance plant diversity and density using this data. Supplemental seeding should ideally be done by hand after a burn. Supplemental planting of ephemeral plants can be conducted over a multi-year period to
enhance the quality of the wooded floodplain understory. Some ephemerals are not available by seed and/or do not grow well from seed, such as Shooting Star, and will have to be added by installing live plants/
plugs. Plant inventories can be continued indefinitely if staff/volunteers are available to conduct them regularly. While continued inventories are not necessary for ecosystem health once established and a good
comprehensive stewardship program is in place, inventory data can be included in educational materials for classes, as well as provide data for future management and enhancement efforts if required.
mainly of eastern redbud, downy hawthorn, green hawthorn, common witchhazel, viburnum, blue beech, American hazelnut and chokecherry. Ideally, new saplings will be found growing within the forested
area, which are offspring of the existing historic tree canopy. When saplings are found on-site they should be protected from deer browse and fire until they reach a caliper of approximately 3-4 inches. Very young
saplings may be dug and transplanted to a different forest location if desired. If the numbers of tree saplings are insufficient to replicate historic stem density counts, trees should be planted to re-establish the
desired dense overhead tree canopy. See also Appendix A for a list of recommended woody species. We recommend planting smaller statured trees (1”-1.5” caliper) that will acclimate more quickly. Trees grown
in #15 size containers are the best option, either grown using pot-in-pot production or the Root Production Method…avoid balled & burlaped tree stock if possible. Again, protect newly planted trees from deer
browse and fire until they reach a size of 3-4” in caliper.
Wooded Floodplain- General Stewardship Recommendations
Figure55. Wooded Floodplain 3.3b
1. The wooded floodplain areas should be stewarded carefully with particular care taken in the selection and timing of herbicide application to minimize impact on both wildlife and human recreation.
burned as regularly as other Midwestern ecosystems due to the Kyte River and the northern marsh, a staggered burn schedule may be desirable, focusing on a fall burning schedule. Note: newly seeded areas
should be allowed to establish for 2-3 growing seasons prior to prescribed fire application.
Plant Community Key
Years 1-3: $76,875.00 - $153,750.00 (1,230 hours), Year 4-5: $43,125.00 - $86,250.00 (690 hours), Years 6+ Annual Cost (Rx Fire Additional $4,500): $8,125.00 - $16,250.00 (130 hours)
Figure 56. Wooded Floodplain 3.3c
Restoration Plan: Woodland 3.3 (Wooded Floodplain)
Secondary Growth Woodland (3.4): Existing Site Conditions Summary
Secondary growth woodland areas are typically characterized by a dominance of fast-growing, mesophytic native and non-native tree species. These areas may have historically been woodland that was cut and
regrew with weedy species, plantations of native and exotic trees, prairie that has undergone succession due to fire suppression or old agricultural field left to “revert back to nature”. Dominant trees include
species such as boxelder, ash, elm, hackberry, European alder, black locust, black cherry, and basswood. The undergrowth of these areas varies in quality from very dense with invasive honeysuckle to containing
occasional native wildflowers capable of withstanding moderate disturbance.
3.4a – These areas of the secondary growth woodland are directly adjacent to high-quality remnant upland woodland areas (3.2a) and have many desirable native tree species (assumedly offspring from the
remnant old-growth trees) mixed with undesirable secondary growth species, therefore they have the greatest potential for restoration. These areas should have 20-40% or more of the existing tree component
removed and an appropriate permanent woodland complex re-established.
3.4b – These areas of the secondary growth woodland have some desirable native tree content mixed with undesirable secondary growth species, therefore they have potential for restoration. Some of these
areas are old plantation/ornamental plantings of black walnut that could potentially be harvested. These areas should have 50-60% or more of the existing tree component removed and an appropriate permanent
woodland complex re-established.
3.4c – These areas of the secondary growth woodland have even age stands of mostly weedy native species, such as boxelder, ash, elm, black cherry and basswood. 80-100% of the existing tree component
should be removed and an appropriate permanent prairie/savanna/woodland restoration process implemented.
3.4d – These areas of the secondary growth woodland consist mainly of hedgerows. Occasionally an Oak can be found growing amongst boxelder, mulberry and other weedy species. 99-100% of the existing tree
component should be removed, no replacement is recommended for these areas.
3.4e – These areas of the secondary growth woodland consist primarily of black locust, boxelder, mulberry, black cherry, elm, ash, Norway maple and other weedy species. 100% of the existing tree component
should be removed and an appropriate permanent prairie/savanna/woodland restoration process implemented.
Secondary Growth Woodland- General Restoration Recommendations
Figure 57. Secondary Growth 3.4a
Figure 58. Secondary Growth 3.4b Black Walnut (Juglans nigra)
1. Priorities should be to 1.) eliminate invasive woody growth, especially Japanese honeysuckle, European alder, black locust, mulberry, buckthorn and multiflora rose; 2.) control Invasive species, especially reed
canary grass and garlic mustard; 3.) eliminate aggressive, low-quality native species, especially boxelder, silver maple, cottonwood, elm, ash and black cherry; and 4.) begin a restoration process ultimately resulting
in establishment of the historic woodland community.
2. Remove non-native trees and invasive shrubs less than 6” in diameter (i.e. honeysuckle, buckthorn, alder, etc.). Cutting should be done by hand and take place in the fall or winter when the ground is dry
and/or frozen to minimize impact on the soil structure. Apply 20% Garlon4e to the cut stump immediately after cutting. Apply 2% Garlon3a to foliage of target woody species during the growing season (avoid
3. Mature Trees: Remove mature non-Oak canopy trees to eliminate weedy even-aged stands of tree cover. Thinning and removing of trees should also be done during the dormant season to minimize impact on
soils and surrounding vegetation. Apply 20% Garlon4e to the cut stump immediately after cutting. Cut material can be chipped and used for trails if preferred; otherwise it should be removed from each site and
disposed of in an appropriate manner.
o Invasive species (3.4a & select areas of 3.4b): Selectively apply herbicide to invasive species to control their population and reduce competition with native species.
Do not allow any invasive species and/or weedy native species to reproduce on-site. Brush-cut or mow plants that are in flower prior to them producing viable seed.
o Most areas (3.4b, 3.4c, 3.4d & 3.4e) will require complete eradication in preparation for native seeding. Utilize a boom-sprayer to apply a non-selective, non-persistent
herbicide (such as Glyphosate) to the entire stand of vegetation. Once the vegetation is browned-out, remove the biomass by mowing or prescribed fire prior to installing
native seed and/or plugs.
5. Utilize a Truax native seed drill to install selected native plant seed mix to create new prairie-to-woodland transition areas (3.4c, 3.4d & 3.4e). Plant species should be selected specifically for the site. See
Appendix A for a list of recommended plant material for installation in prairie areas.
7. Plant Species List (3.4a & select areas of 3.4b): Inventory the site after the initial clearing noting any new species that recover now that light is reaching the ground plain. Species lists are attached in Appendix
A that contain recommendations for the upland woodland area. Following a prescribed fire, refine the attached seeding lists to enhance plant diversity and density using this data. Supplemental seeding should
ideally be done by hand after a burn. Supplemental planting of ephemeral plants can be conducted over a multi-year period to enhance the quality of the wooded floodplain understory. Some ephemerals are not
available by seed and/or do not grow well from seed, such as Shooting Star, and will have to be added by installing live plants/plugs. Plant inventories can be continued indefinitely if staff/volunteers are available
to conduct them regularly. While continued inventories are not necessary for ecosystem health once established and a good comprehensive stewardship program is in place, inventory data can be included in
educational materials for classes, as well as provide data for future management and enhancement efforts if required.
mainly of eastern redbud, downy hawthorn, green hawthorn, common witchhazel, viburnum, blue beech, American hazelnut and chokecherry. Trees should be planted to re-establish the desired dense overhead
tree canopy. See also Appendix A for a list of recommended woody species. We recommend planting smaller statured trees (1”-1.5” caliper) that will acclimate more quickly. Trees grown in #15 size containers are
the best option, either grown using pot-in-pot production or the Root Production Method…avoid balled & burlaped tree stock if possible. Again, protect newly planted trees from deer browse and fire until they
reach a size of 3-4” in caliper.
Figure 60. Skare Park view of 3.4c, Rochelle IL.
3.4 Secondary Growth Woodland
(39.02 Acres, Priorities 1, 4, 5, 6, 8 & Phase II)
Restoration: $320,710.00 - $520,455.00 (Basic) or $700,255.00 - $1,055,790.00 (Advanced)
Stewardship: $238,125.00 - $476,250.00 Permits/Drawings: $48,000.00 - $105,000.00
Secondary Growth Woodland- General Stewardship Recommendations
1. The secondary growth areas should be stewarded carefully with particular care taken in the selection and timing of herbicide application to minimize impact on both wildlife and human recreation.
5. When a newly planted prairie-to-woodland transition area has become established (typically after the 2nd-3rd growing season), a prescribed fire program can generally begin. Prescribed fire was a frequent part
of pre-European settlement ecosystems and served to maintain the integrity of the prairie by stimulating plant growth, preventing brush encroachment, and recycling nutrients. In a wetland restoration, fire will
Figure 59. Secondary Growth 3.4c
Years 1-3: $159,375.00 - $318,750.00 (2,550 hours), Year 4-5: $78,750.00 - $157,500.00 (1,260 hours), Years 6+ Annual Cost (Rx Fire Additional $7,500): $16,875.00 - $33,750.00 (270 hours)
Restoration Plan: Woodland 3.4 (Secondary Growth)
Plant Community Key
Pine Plantation (3.5): Existing Site Conditions Summary
3.5 – These areas have been planted in a mix of native (White Pine) and non-native pine species. The timeframe and purpose of the planting is unknown. 100% of the existing tree component should be removed
and an appropriate permanent prairie/savanna/woodland restoration process implemented.
Basic Restoration/Reconstruction: $192,470.00 - 307,760.00 (2,020 hours), Advanced Restoration/Reconstruction: $479,720.00 - $722,160.00 (4,245 hours)
Pine Plantation- General Restoration Recommendations
1. Priorities should be to 1.) remove/harvest existing pine trees; 2.) test the soils and balance soil chemistry; and 3.) begin a restoration process ultimately resulting in establishment of the historic woodland
community.
2. Mature Trees: Remove all pine trees. Removal of trees should also be done during the dormant season to minimize impact on soils and surrounding vegetation. Grind stumps and remove wood chips.
3. Eradicate any existing herbaceous vegetation in preparation for native seeding. Utilize a boom-sprayer to apply a non-selective, non-persistent herbicide (such as Glyphosate) to the entire stand of vegetation.
Once the vegetation is browned-out, remove the biomass by mowing or prescribed fire prior to installing native seed and/or plugs.
4. Pines typically alter the soil chemistry, making it quite acid. Test the soils throughout the site and develop a soil chemistry restoration plan. This will likely require working soil amendments into the soils prior to
seeding.
5. Utilize a Belco native drop seeder to install selected native plant seed mix to create new prairie-to-woodland transition areas. Plant species should be selected specifically for the site. See Appendix A for a list of
recommended plant material for installation in prairie areas.
6. If the area to be seeded does not allow for operation of a Belco drop seeder because of size, obstructions, and/or steepness of slope, the areas should be heavily raked in a manner that will expose soil to
ensure good seed-to-soil contact will occur. Deep raking is not the preferred method of installation because it disturbs the soil and may expose the site to excessive weed growth; however in some cases this is the
only viable method of seed installation. If soil is disturbed to the point that it is bare soil, stabilization with temporary erosion control blanket may be necessary.
3.5 Pine Plantation
Pine Plantation- General Stewardship Recommendations
(20.85 Acres, Priority: Phase III)
1. The pine plantation areas should be stewarded carefully with particular care taken in the selection and timing of herbicide application to minimize impact on both wildlife and human recreation.
Stewardship: $134,375.00 - $268,750.00
Permits/Drawings: $28,800.00 - $72,000.00
4. When a newly planted prairie-to-woodland transition area has become established (typically after the 2nd-3rd growing season), a prescribed fire program can generally begin. Prescribed fire was a frequent
part of pre-European settlement ecosystems and served to maintain the integrity of the prairie by stimulating plant growth, preventing brush encroachment, and recycling nutrients. In a wetland restoration, fire
will perform these historic functions, as well as help to manage some invasive species.
Figure 62. Secondary Growth 3.5 found along the east side of Skare Park
Plant Community Key
Figure 63. Secondary Growth 3.5 found in the north-east corner of
Skare Park
Restoration Plan: Woodland 3.5 (Pine Plantation)
Park Entrance (4.1): Existing Site Conditions Summary
4.1 – Formal Native Landscape Conversions - By converting existing “traditional” landscape areas and turf areas in areas adjacent to buildings and major circulation corridors, maintenance costs will be reduced
and a cohesive aesthetic will be achieved between the natural areas and the formal landscape areas. Also, by utilizing native plants in the formal landscape, they too become high-quality wildlife habitat.
In order to create ornamental landscapes that are beautiful, lower-maintenance, and true to the native and sustainable aspirations of the Flagg-Rochelle Park District community, all landscape plantings should
have the following characteristics outlined below.
Park Entrance- General Restoration Recommendations
1. Light requirements should be considered, particularly when planting taller species. Taller species requiring full to part sun may “flop” if not receiving adequate sunlight.
2. Expected height of planted native species should be considered carefully. Taller plants can be strategically placed in landscape areas as accents or backgrounds if desired, but in general, plants selected should
retain a low-profile (3’ and below). Tall plants can give the planting a “weedy” appearance and provide visual obstructions.
3. Native Landcape plantings should contain species that have a range of bloom times, creating a landscape that will provide colorful blooms from spring through fall.
4. Species selected for native landscaping should establish well and quickly, but should not be aggressive. Avoiding aggressive species will cut maintenance costs and help to maintain diversity of the planting
long-term. See Appendix A for recommended species.
5. Plant species should be installed in large drifts (groups of a single species). This method of installation will create a landscape that appears to have more structure, and will be perceived as “planned.” Over
time, the plantings will diversify if allowed, but can be kept as drifts if maintained at a “landscape” level.
6. Prepare the landscape beds for planting with a deep till application. Establish the planting bed edge and install live plugs in formal planting groups. Once all plugs are installed apply mulch 3 inches thick with
a pre-emergent herbicide mixed in to prevent weeds from growing. Water the newly planted plugs for six to eight weeks. Lower priced opinion accommodates only half the number of live plugs necessary for the
site and excludes goose exclosure.
Park Entrance- General Stewardship Recommendations
1. Formal Landscape Areas need to be maintained at a high level, just as traditional landscaping. Flowering species must be dead-headed or cut back after flowering to improve aesthetics, beds must be weeded
consistently to maintain a “cared for” appearance, planting beds should be re-mulched as needed to maintain a landscape aesthetic and suppress weeds. Native plants DO NOT require supplemental water or
fertilizers. If water and fertilizers are given to native plants they will grow wildly, flop over and look weedy.
Years 1-3: $32,500.00 - $65,000.00 (520 hours), Year 4-5: $23,125.00 - $46,250.00 (370 hours), Years 6+ Annual Cost (Rx Fire Additional): $3,125.00 - $6,250.00 (50 hours)
4.1 Park Entrance Native Landscapes
(1.33 Acres, Priority: 10)
Restoration: $17,785.00 - $29,050.00 (Basic)
Stewardship: $55,625.00 - $111,250.00
Permits/Design: $2,670.00 - $4,350.00
Figure 64. The view along Skare Road is void of any ornamental
landscape ill-fitted to signify a park entrance.
Figure 65. Park entrance turf travels from the edge of the woodland to
the parking-lot, with little or no landscaping along the buildings.
Figure 67. A border of Sideoats Grama (Bouteloua curtipendula) is
recommended along any prairie planting to provide a formal edge.
Figure 69. This bioswale runs through a parking lot, featuring
perferated drainage piping underneath the carpet of native plants.
Figure 71. School park with native formal landscaping along
walkway
Figure 66. South view of oark entrance turf.
Figure 68. Winters view of a Sideoats Grama border along
a driveway creates formality, texture, and shape within the
Figure 70. Drainage swale planted with a low-profile prairie mix to
increase water retention and filtration.
Figure 72. Addison Park District, Lake Manor Park formal native
landcsaping around the entrance sign
Plant Community Key
Restoration Plan: Park Entrance 4.1(Native Landscapes)
Agricultural Field Conversion (4.2): Existing Site Conditions Summary
4.2 - This areas is currently being farmed with a rotation of soy beans and corn. When farming is halted, an appropriate permanent prairie/savanna/woodland restoration process should
be implemented.
Agricultural Field- General Restoration Recommendations
1. Priorities should be to 1.) prepare soils for planting of native seed; and 2.) begin a restoration process ultimately resulting in establishment of the historic woodland community.
2. Eradicate any existing herbaceous vegetation in preparation for native seeding. Utilize a boom-sprayer to apply a non-selective, non-persistent herbicide (such as Glyphosate) to the entire stand of vegetation.
Once the vegetation is browned-out, remove the biomass by mowing or prescribed fire prior to installing native seed and/or plugs.
3. Prepare the soil for seeding by disking, tilling, raking and dragging.
4. Utilize a Belco native drop seeder to install selected native plant seed mix to create new prairie-to-woodland transition areas. Plant species should be selected specifically for the site. See Appendix A for a list of
recommended plant material for installation in prairie areas.
5. If the area to be seeded does not allow for operation of a Belco drop seeder because of size, obstructions, and/or steepness of slope, the areas should be heavily raked in a manner that will expose soil to ensure
Agricultural Field- General Stewardship Recommendations
1. The agricultural field areas should be stewarded carefully with particular care taken in the selection and timing of herbicide application to minimize impact on both wildlife and human recreation.
4.2 Agricultural Field Conversion
(18.62 Acres, Priority: 9)
Stewardship: $120,000.00 - $240,000.00
Permits/Design: $11,550.00 - $14,700.00
4. When a newly planted prairie-to-woodland transition area has become established (typically after the 2nd-3rd growing season), a prescribed fire program can generally begin. Prescribed fire was a frequent part
of pre-European settlement ecosystems and served to maintain the integrity of the prairie by stimulating plant growth, preventing brush encroachment, and recycling nutrients. In a wetland restoration, fire will
Figure 75. Geneva Park District, Peck Farm Miller-Thompson retired
agricultural field
Figure 77. Geneva Park District, Peck Farm Miller-Thompson 1st year of
growth with a nice blanket of biennial Black Eyed Susan
Figure 79. August corn grown in the existing agricultural field at Skare
Park.
Figure 76. Geneva Park District, Peck Farm Miller-Thompson’s 2nd year
of growth
Figure 78. Geneva Park District, Peck Farm Miller-Thompson retired
agricultural field conversion to prairie 2nd year of growth
Figure 80. View of the agricultural field through the secondary growth
of area 3.4e.
Plant Community Key
Restoration Plan: Agricultural Field 4.2 (Conversion)
White-tailed Deer Impacts at Skare Park:
At Skare Park, there are no available white-tailed deer population studies or counts available; however local residents who live near the park gave personal accounts of large
deer herds populating the park. Deer herbivory was observed during inventory visits (See Figure 86) and the sparse herbaceous understory within the woodland areas is highly
representative of overbrowsing (See Figure 84).
The Ecological Impact of Excessive White-tailed Deer Populations:
The white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) is the most abundant and best-known large herbivore in the United States and eastern Canada. They are found anywhere from
wilderness areas to urban parks and neighborhoods. Although whitetails are valued by many segments of society, considerable controversy exists concerning white-tailed
deer management. Addressing the myriad of public values and often arbitrating the public controversies, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and the United States
Environmental Protection Agency have statutory responsibility for management of this invaluable resource.
Existing Conditions Photo’s:
Early records from colonial times suggest white-tailed deer were present in moderate numbers at the time, typically less than 0.04 deer/acre. Deer populations were small
and scattered by the turn of the 20th century, primarily as a result of habitat loss and unregulated market hunting. In the early 1900s, deer were so scarce that sightings were
often reported in local newspapers. Concern for the loss of the species brought about laws that regulated the taking of deer. However habitat protection and management and
knowledge of deer biology were not a component of these early efforts until a stable funding source was created in 1937.
Deer populations have the potential for rapid growth. This is an evolved response to high mortality often related to predation. Under normal circumstances, does two years old or
older produce twins annually, while yearling does typically produce single fawns. On excellent range, adult does can produce triplets, yearlings can produce twins and fawns can be
bred and give birth during their first year of life. In the absence of predation or hunting, this kind of reproduction can result in a deer herd doubling its size in one year. Today deer
populations are in excess of 0.24 deer/acre, a staggering increase while available habitat has decreased.
Figure 84. Degraded Forest From Deer Overbrowsing
There are natural limits to the number of deer that a given parcel of habitat can support. These limits are a function of the quality and quantity of deer forage and/or the
availability of good winter habitat. The number of deer that a given parcel can support in good physical condition of an extended period of time is referred to as “Biological Carrying
Capacity” (BCC). Deer productivity causes populations to exceed BCC, unless productivity is balanced by mortality. When BCC is exceeded, habitat quality decreases with the loss of
native plant species and herd physical condition declines. Biologists use herd health indices and population density indices to assess the status of a herd relative to BCC.
Figure 81. The flower stems of this common daylily (Hemerocallis fulva)
were bitten off, more than likey by deer who favor the juicy non-native.
Figure 82. A lack of groundfloor vegetation coverage along upland and
secondary growth woodland in August can be atributed to past misstimed prescibed burns along with the large deer colony witnessed by
many residents around Skare Park.
Figure 83. This young fawn was traveling through the woods with his
twin sibling, hidden behind the old growth oak tree.
Deer populations have the ability to grow beyond BCC. When BCC is exceeded, competition for limited food resources results in overbrowsing. Severe overbrowsing alters plant
species composition, distribution and abundance, increases the rate of invasive plant establishment, and reduces understory structural diversity (due to the inability of seedlings
to grow beyond the reach of deer). Although ecosystem function is harder to measure, browsing-caused changes to mineral recycling have also been documented. The understory
herbs in particular are quite susceptible to browsing by white-tailed deer because they never grow above the browse level and thus never escape browsing pressure. Herbivory
on individual plants can be ruinous since one nibble can defoliate the plant and remove all reproductive parts of the plant. As no regrowth will occur in that season and they will
not produce offspring clonally, that single bite will effectively stop the plant from reproducing. Research has shown that herbivory can remove greater than 50% of reproductive
plants from the overall population in consecutive years and can reduce overall individual plant mass. Studies also show that deer will most often select the plants in flower to graze
on, suggesting that elevated resident deer densities can thwart many wildflower populations from recuperation. The erection of deer exclosure fencing within study areas have
resulted in fairly substantial growth response following only two growing seasons of release from deer herbivory. Also, the plants inside the exclosure fencing flowered at a rate of
19 times greater than those outside of the exclosure which in turn allowed for pollination and setting seeds for future generations. This process of reproduction is often eliminated
by excessive white-tailed deer browse, which can lead to the eventual decimation of populations. In addition, hardwood regenerations have been reported to increase eight-fold in
a five-year period as a result of deer reduction through exclosure fencing. These changes have a negative impact on other wildlife species, which also depend on healthy vegetative
systems for food and cover. In time, overbrowsing results in reduced habitat quality and a long-term reduction in BCC. Coincident with overbrowsing is the decline in herd health.
This decline is manifested in decreased body weights, lowered reproductive rates, lowered winter survival, increased parasitism and increased disease prevalence. In the absence
of marked herd reduction, neither heard health nor habitat quality will improve as each constrains the other.
Figure 85. Healthy Forest Protected From Deer
The potential for deer populations to exceed carrying capacity, to impinge on the well-being of other plant and animal species and to conflict with land-use practices as well as
human safety and health necessitates efficient and effective herd management. Financial and logistical constraints require that any deer management plan be practical and fiscally
responsible. Values associated with white-tailed deer management are diverse and extensive. Ecological benefits derived from regulated hunting include protection of the local
environment from overbrowsing protection of flora and fauna that may be negatively impacted by deer overpopulation and the maintenance of healthy viable deer populations
for the benefit of people now and into the future. Social benefits that result from regulated hunting include: increased land-use compatibility stemming from fewer land-use/
deer conflicts, human safety benefits resulting from reduced deer/vehicle incidents, diverse educational and recreational opportunities and emotional benefits associated with a
continued presence of healthy deer herds. Regulated hunting provides economic benefits in the form of hunting-related expenditures. Researchers estimated the expenditures of
the nation’s 10,062,000 deer hunters to be nearly $11.1 billion in 2006. An economic evaluation of regulated deer hunting should also include costs that would be incurred in the
absence of population management.
One-hundred years of research and management experience throughout the United States and eastern Canada has shown regulated hunting to be an ecologically sound, socially
beneficial and fiscally responsible method of managing deer populations. Options routinely suggested as alternatives to regulated hunting are typically limited in applicability,
prohibitively expensive, logistically impractical, or technically infeasible. As a consequence, wildlife professionals have come to recognize regulated hunting as the fundamental
basis of successful deer management.
Management Recommendations: White-Tailed Deer
Figures 86. Traces of Deer Browse in Skare Park
Recommended White-tailed Deer Management Options:
We recommend that the following white-tailed deer management options be implemented at Skare Park:
• Barriers (Deer Fence Exclosures)
o While it is not feasible to erect deer fencing around the entire park to eliminate deer browse, we do feel it would be highly beneficial to erect smaller sections of
exclosure fencing around high-quality remnant areas to preserve the existing gene pool and aid in the recovery of more conservative herbaceous species that exist on
the site. Additional smaller exclosures should be erected randomly throughout the woodland areas to see if eliminating deer browse enhances the re-establishment of
native species, verifying that deer browse is an issue that must be addressed on a larger scale. These exclosures should be left in place for 2-5 years, will require regular
monitoring and will require stewardship inside of the fenced areas.
•Lethal Removal (Hunting and/or Sharp Shooting)
o Just about all of the available research regarding population management of white-tailed deer state that lethal removal is the most effective, most efficient form of
management. We highly recommend that the District consider implementing a controlled hunting program at Skare Park in an attempt to control deer populations. We
recommend implementing an “earn-a-buck” program as described by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources:
“Well regulated hunting through the state permit system, conducted in a safe manner, is the primary method of achieving population management goals for Illinois’ white-tailed deer. The effective use of the legal hunting season
is the best way to control deer populations. Harvesting deer during the regular archery and firearm deer hunting seasons may not solve problems completely, but it will be an important step toward long-term damage control.
A very important goal of a hunting program on private land should be to harvest the maximum number of adult female deer (does). Killing male deer (bucks) accomplishes little to control the deer population. In addition to the
reduction in deer densities, hunting can cause the dispersal of large, local concentrations of deer.
Figure 87. Deer Exclosure Protects Spring Ephemerals
Individuals attempting to use hunting as a deer management tool should recruit safety conscious, dependable hunters that are willing to shoot does. If hunters have shown that they are helping to effectively harvest does, allow
them to shoot deer with exceptional antlers but request that hunters pass up “ordinary bucks” in favor of does. Try to have one hunter for every 10-15 acres of wooded habitat.
There are several aspects of conducting a hunting program that are important to success:
1. Have all hunters complete their scouting and stand installation activities several weeks before the season.
2. Hunt from elevated tree stands and refill productive stands. During the firearm seasons, four or five deer may be taken from a single stand in one day.
3. Encourage hunters to hunt from their stands throughout the entire day.
4. Maintain hunting pressure (number of hunters in the field each day) throughout the season.
5. Encourage neighbors to adopt similar hunting techniques on their property.
6. Monitor the hunting effort (number of hunters per day for each hunting season), and record the number and sex of the deer harvested as well as the names and addresses of all hunters.”
-Kammin.2012. pg 2
The District could take the request to harvest does a step further and make it a requirement that hunters must agree to take 1 or 2 does before they are allowed to harvest a buck.
The District may also be able to make this into a revenue producing endeavor, charging a fee to hunters wanting to hunt the Skare Park property. If demand out performs the
number of hunting slots available, the District may have to implement a “lottery” system. There are several concerns surrounding the effective use of a deer hunting program that
should be considered by any land manager prior to implementation. The foremost issue is the safe use of firearms or archery in a region with a growing population and increasing
use of natural lands. This is a particular concern in communities where natural lands are part of the common open space that is used by the local community. Any hunting program
should be closely monitored by the land manager and controlled by restrictions that minimize the potential conflict between hunters and other users of the natural areas. These
should include limitations on hunting areas and times, notification of appropriate persons when hunting is in progress and easy way to identify permitted hunters by other users.
Most importantly, all hunters should be carefully screened for firearm proficiency and a history of ethical hunting practices. Any hunter who violates any program rule should be
immediately removed from the program.
Figure 88. Exclosure
A potential alternative or modification within the lethal removal option that can be employed to reduce deer populations is requiring the use of archery, particularly on small
properties or properties with numerous residential structures on its borders. This would expand the hunting area (the safety zone for archery is 50 yards; firearms require a 150
yard safety zone) and extend the hunting time during the year by several weeks. An added benefit of allowing expanded access by hunters is that permitted hunters will monitor
for unwarranted hunting while they are in the field. In some situations, it is more efficient to engage a local hunting club to implement a deer population control program. They
can handle all program administration, including proficiency tests, the scheduling of hunting times, and data collection on the separate harvest rates of does and bucks. The
group should provide proof of insurance and be in close contact with the property landowner or manager to avoid conflicts with other activities in hunting areas. Hunting must be
performed annually, at least until ecosystem restoration is achieved. Once the deer population is reduced and overbrowsing impacts are alleviated, a controlled hunting program—
if it is permissible or feasible—may be adequate to maintain the desired deer population density.
White-tailed Deer Management
Options…
There are many management
options available for controlling
white-tailed deer populations,
all differing in levels of
applicability, cost, practicality
and feasibility. Following
is a listing of management
options that, while they may be
effective, we do not recommend
them for Skare Park:
• No management
• Repellents
• Contraceptives/Sterilization
(Immunocontraceptive vaccines)
• Trap and Transfer (Relocation) – Per DNR, this is no longer an
option in Illinois due to
potential for spreading
unwanted wildlife disease
(such as Chronic Wasting
Disease -CWD)and/or parasites.
• Lethal Removal
(Hunting and/or sharp shooting)
Figure 89. Juvenile Male Deer Browsing
Figure 90. Bow hunting is a popular alternative to rifle hunting in the
state of Illinois.
Figure 91. Illinois deer hunting season starts in mid fall to late winter
Management Recommendations: White-Tailed Deer
Getting to Know Beaver:
North American beavers (Castor canadensis), more than any other animal besides humans, alter the environment to meet their needs. They are keystone species within an
ecosystem…the dams they build, the trees they cut for food and the channels they dig to increase their mobility in the water bring diversity in plant and animal life to any area
they occupy. In suitable habitats they are critical to maintaining healthy aquatic and riparian ecosystems, beaver dams create wetlands that help prevent soil erosion, promote
biodiversity, improve water quality, recharge aquifers, help reduce high flows and downstream flooding. Their work provides habitat for fish, reptiles, amphibians and waterfowl
while enhancing forage and cover for terrestrial species. As a matter of fact it’s been estimated that 85% of wildlife, at some point in their lives, depend on the riparian habitat that
beaver create.
Cool Beaver Facts:
• Before European settlement
there were between 60 to 400
million beaver from northern
Canada down to northern
Mexico
• Pre-Settlement populations
had a variety of colors: black,
white, chocolate, silver, red, and
blonde.
• By the 1900’s beaver were
almost extinct from the fur
trade, leaving only a few
colonies of the brown variety
known today
• Raised in a matriarchal
society and mate for life. Young
beaver are called Kits, living
with the family for two years
More at home in the water, beaver get out on dry land to cut trees and other vegetation for food and occasionally to travel short distances overland from one water habitat to
another. Special characteristics enable this semi-aquatic animal to adapt to both environments. Perhaps the most commonly recognized feature is the beaver’s broad flat, scaly tail,
which the animal uses for stability while sitting and feeding or while chewing its way through a tree. In the water, it serves as a warning device when an alarmed beaver slaps it on
the surface of the water…it is also used as a rudder when swimming. The beaver’s front feet are equipped with heavy toenails for digging bank dens, dredging up mud form the
stream bottom for dam building, digging channels and for handling food and construction material. Their large webbed hind feet are used to propel the animal through the water.
The three outer toes on the hind feet have typical claws, but the fourth toe has a split or double toe-nail that the beaver use as a comb to groom themselves and to distribute oils
that help waterproof their fur.
Other specializations have helped the beaver adapt to their aquatic way of life. The location of the eyes near the top of the head allows a beaver to see above the water while
keeping most of their body submerged. Although their vision is only fair above water (they are near-sighted), they are quick to notice movement. When they dive, transparent lids
cover their eyes, which enable them to keep their eyes open and see underwater. Their ears are small but their sense of hearing is incredibly good, alerting them to the sound of
danger. When they swim underwater, they fold their ears back to keep out water. Their keen sense of smell helps beaver find and select food. It also helps them identify family
members and detect predators. Beaver can regulate their blood chemistry, heart rate and circulation patterns so they can work under-water for up to 15 minutes.
Figure 92. Past Beaver Disturbance Attracts Weedy Species
Beaver have four prominent bright orange incisors; two on the top and two on the bottom. Because these incisors never stop growing, the beaver keep them filed down by
chewing on trees or grinding their teeth together. Conveniently, they have a flap that closes behind their incisors; this enables them to keep water out of their mouth while carrying
branches and food underwater. They use their molars to grind their food so it can be digested. Beaver are vegetarians, preferring a diet of aquatic plants and tender green shoots of
terrestrial plants during the spring and summer when they are in abundance. This type of non-woody vegetation is estimated to constitute three-fifths of the beaver’s annual food
intake. During the winter beaver feed on the bark of softwood trees, such as silver maple, willow and cottonwood where they will eat the cambium (green living layer) between
the bark and the wood of the tree. When these foods are not available, beaver can make do with hardwoods, such as ash, oak, hickory and walnut. Beaver that feed on the bark of
hardwoods for an extended period are poorly nourished and have little fate reserve compared to those feeding on the softer maples, willows and cottonwood. Beavers will often
travel 100 yards or more from a pond or stream to get to an area where they cut the plant off at the ground and drag the entire plant back to the water. They eat part of these
plants and often use the remainder as construction materials in the dam.
Family Matters:
Beavers are social animals. They usually live in family units, called colonies, which consist of an adult pair, the young from that year and a few of the offspring born the year prior
(a typical colony consists of 4-8 related beavers). Beaver are monogamous, mating for life, but will take another mate if the first one dies. Their families are considered relatively
stable, with the oldest female (matriarch) being the central organizing member of the colony. Beaver reach sexual maturity at one and a half to two years old. In Illinois, beaver
mate between October and March, birthing one litter per year. Once kits are weaned from their mother, all family members take part in raising them. Kits stay with their parents
for two years before they leave home to find a mate and create a habitat of their own. Beaver continue to grow and put on weight throughout their lives, although as they age,
their growth rate slows down. Their average weight is between 40 and 50 pounds. The largest beaver on record was captured in Wyoming, in 1038, and weighed 115 lbs. Beaver
can live to be 10 – 20 years old. When the matriarch dies, the colony generally breaks up and reorganizes elsewhere. When beaver are removed from good habitat, they’re simply
leaving a void that other beaver will move in and fill. Beaver work hard to build a home, they struggle to survive and care for their families. They have a purpose.
Figure 93. Beaver Activity
• When beaver are removed
from habitat, other beaver
colonies will move in to fill the
void
• Beaver families always travel
together when relocating to a
different location
•A Favorite food source of
beaver is willow and aspen
species
Management Recommendations: Beaver
Figure 94. Beaver Dam Activity
Beaver at Skare Park:
Beaver have been consistent residents at Skare Park, constructing dams along the creek in the northern section of the property. To date the District has practiced harassment as
a beaver management technique in the form of destruction of dams and lodges. The threat that beaver dams pose at the Skare Park site is the potential of backing-up water onto
neighboring properties, particularly those up stream of the park. Dam removal for the most part has been ineffective, as research indicates it would be. There have also been
unintended consequences to this management approach, such as:
• Erosion has occurred in areas where dams have been removed
• Weedy plant species grow on areas where dam debris where dumped along the shoreline (See Figure 92)
• Historic hydrology has been altered making the areas adjacent to the creek drier, allowing reed canarygrass to become more prolific as wetter soil native species decline.
We recommend that the District adopt an attitude of acceptance, and tolerance for beaver activity at Skare Park. Wildlife is a part of our common wealth, all citizens benefit from
common ownership, while at the same time assuming a shared responsibility for wildlife’s well-being. We would advocate that the District recognize that beaver are a natural and
desirable component of the environment because they contribute to the quality and diversity of natural habitat. Conflicts may arise when beaver activity impacts public areas,
public health and safety, private property or public infrastructure, however the significance of the impacts should determine what resolution actions, if any, should be taken to
reduce or eliminate conflict.
Figure 95. Beaver Fencing
When it is determined that beaver management actions are required to reduce or eliminate conflict, they should be based on the following:
• Proven wildlife management techniques
• Appropriate animal welfare concerns
• Problem solving
• Applicable laws and regulations
Benefits Beaver Provide:
• Beaver are keystone species,
creating and maintaining
healthy and productive aquatic
and riparian systems
Following are the commonly accepted beaver management activities in order of preference:
1. Public education and tolerance.
• Beaver are the greatest
mammalian architects &
engineers building site specific
2. Exclusion, including but not limited to fence and screens, particularly installing metal fencing around large desirable trees (Oaks & Hickories) that are within the beaver’s typical
feeding range (100 yards of the dam/lodge).
dams based on water flow that
store surface water and re3. Install beaver pond mechanical leveler devices to reduce the risk of flooding on private properties upstream from beaver activity, such as the Beaver Deceiver, Castor Master, etc.
charge ground water
4. Thinking outside of the box to plan for and adapt to beaver on-site. For example, floodplain alteration that diverts the flow of floodwaters around the dam could reduce the risk
of flooding on private properties upstream from beaver activity, however this option may be costly and would likely require extensive permitting. Another way might be to promote
dam building as far east on the property as possible (furthest away from upstream private property) by planting or keeping existing groves of willow (a beaver food favorite) toward
the eastern property line and eliminating all other willow groves throughout the property.
Figure 96. Example of a Leveler Device
5. Harassment, including but not limited to food source reduction or the destruction of dams and lodges.
6. Population management, including but not limited to birth control, relocation and euthanasia. Beaver may be trapped and removed from an area with an appropriate permit,
however trapping and relocation may be expensive. Furthermore, if it is ideal habitat for beaver, which Skare Park is, a replacement colony is likely to move in and continue building
dams.
Figure 97. Culvert Beaver Exclosure
Figure 98. Example of beaver fencing for culverts
Figure 99. Example of a caster master, used for inhibiting beaver from
damning small streams and wetlands
• Built dams create networks of
ponds and wetlands, attracting
a greater number of wildlife,
enhancing diversity and the
overall landscape
• Dams and ponds slow water
velocity, decreasing flooding
and streambank erosion
Figure 100. Example of tree protection fencing
Management Recommendations: Beaver
Restoration Priorities and Implementation Recommendation:
Restoration priorities should focus first on the control of invasive species throughout the site, particularly within areas that are high-quality or display remnant characteristics. Generally the following phasing will apply, however there may be some overlap (See also Restoration Plan sheets):
PHASE I
1.
2.
3.
4.
Remove and prevent re-sprouting of Japanese honeysuckle, buckthorn and multiflora rose from the entire site. Highest priority areas should be in 3.1, 3.2a, 3.3a, 3.4a & 3.2b.
Erect deer exclosure areas and monitor for native vegetation recovery.
Remove all trees and brush from the prairie and wetland areas. Highest Priority areas should be on the complete removal of areas 3.4d as well as random trees and brush scattered throughout prairie and wetland areas.
Eradicate invasive herbaceous species. Highest priorities should be on the control of wild parsnip in the prairie areas, garlic mustard in the woodland areas and common reed in the wetland areas. Second-highest priority should be control of reed canary grass in the wet prairie and wetland areas,
control of cool-season turf grasses in the prairie areas and control of Canada thistle in the wetland areas.
5. Remove and/or thin secondary growth tree species. Highest priorities should be on removal of secondary growth species in areas 3.4a, 3.4b, 3.4c and 3.4e. Second-highest priority should be on thinning secondary growth species in areas 3.2a, 3.2b, 3.3a, 3.3b, 3.4a and 3.3b
6. If determined necessary, develop and implement a deer control program.
7. Control tall goldenrod throughout the site. Highest priorities should be on areas 1.1a, 1.1b, 1.2a, 1.2b, 1.2c, 1.3a, 1.3b, 1.3c and 2.1c.
8. Install native seed/plugs in areas lacking vegetation in order to increase competition with weed species and increase plant diversity. The focus should be on establishing woodland/savanna species within remaining woodland areas and prairie-to-woodland species within any open areas.
9. Install native seed in the current agricultural field area.
10. Implement site enhancements as funding becomes available (boardwalks, bridges, interpretive signage, etc.)
PHASE II
1. Begin a tree planting program to implement an assisted succession approach to woodland restoration.
PHASE III
1. Remove the existing “pine plantation” trees.
2. Continue and expand the tree planting program until the historic woodland and savanna complex is restored.
Site Enhancement and Usability Recommendations:
Boardwalks: The highest priority for enhancing usability of the site would be to implement a boardwalk system in the floodplain area surrounding the existing drainage creek on the northern portion of the property. Currently these areas are often wet, making use of the existing trail difficult by park visitors (Figure 101). There are several
types of boardwalk systems available, most of them can be designed to include resting points (benches), gathering points (decking areas offset from the main path) and integrated interpretive signage (Figure 116).
Bridges: The next priority for enhancing usability is to replace the existing bridges on site with more structurally sound pre-engineered, pre-fabricated bridge structures in order to provide safe crossing points across the creek on the north end of the property (Figure 113). The existing wooden bridges on the property are old and are beginning to show signs of compromised structures, including rot, warping and missing planks (Figure 53). The existing bridges may be a liability to the District if a park user were to become injured while trying to cross the creek. The bridges may be able to be replaced by the District; however design and permitting through the Army Corps of
Engineers will likely be required.
Signage: It is highly recommended that an interpretive signage program be developed for Skare Park. A program that addresses the initial restoration process and that can be modified as restoration progresses would be best. Interpretive signage can be critical in getting park users to understand the importance and uniqueness of the natural
areas throughout Skare Park, getting them to value Skare Park as a critical natural resource and creating acceptance and understanding of the extreme physical changes ecological restoration can impart on a site.
Gathering Points: It is recommended that organized gathering points be placed within the natural areas of Skare Park to provide groups a place to gather. These can be used by local schools, Park District programs, regional organizations/groups and by everyday park users as a central place for education on the ecosystems, flora and fauna
found throughout Skare Park. Gathering points can be more complex structures that blend into the natural landscape, such as the outlook structure shown in (Figure 106), or can be simple gathering point structures, such as the stone council ring shown in (Figure 107).
Natural/Discovery Playscapes: These are a feature that can be placed around gathering points and/or along trails throughout the park to create interest in younger park users and encourage interaction with the natural world surrounding them. They are as simple as carefully placed boulders, large logs, etc. that inspire creative play in children and adolescent park users (Figure 103). They should be placed so that they feel like they are part of the natural system and are found through discovery.
Ex. Pine
Woodland
Boardwalk
Ex. Shrubs
Shrub Grouping
Overlook Location
Phase I
Park Area
Figure 101. Footsteps sink deep into the wet ground where
people travel toward the river bridges along the sedge meadow
Phase II
Phase III
Figure 102. Pre-cast play structures mimic climbing rocks
Figure 106. Urbana Park District Interpretive look-out structure
offers scenic views of a restored prairie area.
Figure 110. Educational opportunities at Urbana Park District’s
look-out structure provided by interpretive signage.
Figure 114. Custom built cedar bridge over stream with outlining
wetlands. The bridge is meant to fluctuate with the water levels.
Figure 103. Land features are used to influence creativity and
imagaination in childrens play areas
Figure 107. Council rings provide an atypical form of gathering
space used for outdoor classrooms, camps, or meeting areas
Figure 111. Groundplain eorsion in floodplain areas may be
reduce by providing boardwalk structures along wet areas.
Figure 115. ADA accesible look-out structure at Urbana Park
District provides a meeting node along a busy trail.
Figure 104. Discovery playscapes offer multiple outlets for
playtime
Figure 108. Park signage educates visitors on recent and
continual stewardship, keeping the public informed
Figure 112. PermaTrak’s concrete boardwalk is fire-resistant providing a durable product for areas with fire management programs.
Figure 116. Wickcraft walkway systems come in pre-fabricated
sections making installation superiorly simple
Figure 105. Simple structures of recycled tree stumps offer
opportunities for children to explore at a low cost level
Figure 109. Signage provides interpretive education to identify
native plant species specific to the open woodland
Figure 113. Custom-built cedar bridges allow timeless access
over waterways such as creeks or small rivers
Figure 117. Typical wood boardwalks blend into the natural
environment allowing pedestrians safe access distribution.
Restoration:
There are three basic components to Ecosystem Restoration: Site preparation, installation, and erosion control if necessary.
1. Site Preparation: Site preparation begins with the removal of undesirable woody and/or herbaceous plant materials. Brush and trees may be removed by hand or with mechanized equipment. To minimize impact on soil structure, remnant integrity, and
restoration potential, clearing and brush cutting should be performed when soils are dry and/or frozen. General vehicle traffic in natural areas should be restricted as much as possible. Hand removal typically involves the use of chainsaws, hand saws, and
loppers. Mechanized removal typically involves the use of large wheeled or tracked vehicles equipped with large mowing or grinding implements. All cut stumps should be treated with an appropriate herbicide by a certified herbicide applicator immediately
following cutting, making sure that the herbicide is applied to the cambium layer of the woody plant. Herbaceous plant material, such as turf grass, should be treated with an appropriate herbicide by a certified herbicide applicator. Herbicides used for
invasive species control should be appropriate for site conditions and have a low environmental impact. In upland areas we recommend that glyphosate be used to control brome and other upland invasives such as wild parsnip. In lowlands and wetland
areas, we recommend that an aquatic-approved glyphosate product be used to minimize impact. For woody vegetation, a triclopyr herbicide is effective. Herbicides should never be mixed inside a natural area, rather they should be mixed offsite or over a
protective ground cover onsite and an appropriate dye should be added to enable tracking of application. Some species, such as Brome or Reed Canary Grass, may require two herbicide applications. For best results utilize the “Brown and Burn” method of
removal, this is where an initial application of herbicide is applied and the area is burned using prescribed fire. Typically one to two weeks after the prescribed fire any re-sprouting will have occurred and a second application of herbicide can be applied at this
time. Do not till seeding areas unless they are inaccessible by tractor. Tilling exposes a seed bank of weed seeds and increases the risk of soil erosion. In areas that require tilling or re-grading, till to a depth of 6” and rake smooth. Remove any large stones,
roots, branches, or clods.
2. Installation: The installation of native plant species can occur through the planting of either seed and/or plugs.
• Seeding is the main approach to restoration because it is economical, however it will take three to five years before good establishment is achieved. Whenever possible native seed should be installed with a no-till drill seeder that is designed
to plant native seed, such as the Truax brand. The main feature of these drills that make them unique is the seed delivery system. There are three separate seed boxes on a Truax, one for small seed, one for large seed, and one for fluffy seed.
In a regular drill seeder designed for turf seed there is only one seed box, if you were to put all three types of native seed together in one box they would become separated as the drill gets bounced around during installation with the fluffy
seed coming to the top, the small seed settling at the bottom, and the large seed somewhere in between…this would result in a patchy distribution of seed. To be able to utilize the Truax as designed, seed needs to be ordered and delivered
as individual species so that it can be separated and mixed appropriately, do not order native seed that arrives pre-mixed. Success in natural areas restoration will also be dependent upon the native plant’s ability to out-compete weedy/invasive
species for sunlight, nutrients, and water. This means that the more native seed we put down, the better the results are going to be. We highly recommend native seed rates at approximately 20 lbs per acre or more; however mixes should be
customized to maximize the number of seeds per square foot (Goal of 110 seeds/SF) based on the needs of each individual site. We also highly recommend the installation of an EndoMychorizal inoculant at 40 lbs/acre and a cover crop of
Seed Oats (Avena sativa) at 60 lbs/acre with the native seed. A cover crop will reduce the potential for erosion and will mark the planted rows for easier monitoring in the first year(s) of restoration. The inoculant provides a fungus that develops
a symbiotic relationship with the native plant. This fungus attaches itself to the roots of the plant, the fungus collects nutrients from the soil and passes them on to the plant and in exchange the plant gives the fungus sugar. This plant to fungus
relationship dramatically increases root production and foliage growth in the young native seedlings. If the sites is not accessible by tractor it will have to be tilled or scarified and seeded by hand. Seeding in sensitive areas, such as savannas
and wetlands, should be done by hand to minimize the impact on soil and root structure. When seeding by hand, mix the seed with an inert material such as damp sand or wood shavings at a 2:1 (inert material:seed) ratio. With either method
of seeding, it is imperative to achieve good seed to soil contact while maintaining a seeding depth of no greater than 1/4” for proper germination. Native seed must not be buried too deep. Seeding times are typically April – June for spring
installations and October – Frost for fall, or dormant installations.
Figure 117. Truax Native Seed Drill
• Plugs are live native plants already growing, typically in 2” pots. They develop and mature rather quickly, however they are expensive and should be reserved for specialized restoration situations. Situations that may warrant the installation of
plugs include, but are not limited to in saturated soil or submerged soil situations where seeding is difficult or impossible, to establish species that have difficulty germinating from seed (such as Shooting Star or Prairie Drop Seed), or in a
landscape situation where control over plant location is desired. Plugs can also be useful in diversifying established natural areas. It is reccommended that groups of 38 plugs are planted every 50-75’ apart or $1,000 in plugs per acre. The most
efficient way to plant plugs is to utilize a power auger with a 2” auger bit, such as the one manufactured by Sthil. The auger can be used to plant plugs through erosion blanket if done with care, however utilizing the sharp end of a pick axe to
puncture the blanket and create a planting cavity is typically more effective. The most inefficient way to plant plugs is by using hand tools, such as planting trowels or shovels, however hand tools are fairly inexpensive and can be easily and
safely used by student/volunteer groups. Herbivory should be kept in mind when planting plugs, particularly when planting them in close proximity to water. Plug plantings are often decimated by Geese, Muskrats, or by grass-eating Carp. An
exclosure netting consisting of 2” x 2” wooden stakes, chicken wire or green plastic snow fencing, zip ties, and nylon string can be erected to effectively keep Geese away from newly planted areas. Goose exclosures are temporary structures
and are typically only necessary throughout the first growing season and can be taken down once the plants become established. These structures are not effective at keeping fish or Muskrats away from newly planted areas however, and
additional actions must be taken to eliminate damage from these species such as trapping for Muskrats and fish-kills for Carp. Muskrats need only be trapped and removed from site until the plants become thoroughly established, typically
once the plants become established minimal damage is done through browsing. If populations become high and plant populations are being severely damaged, trapping should be reinstated.
• Erosion Control: Temporary erosion control structures should be installed over any areas with exposed soils. Typically the two types of erosion control utilized in the restoration industry are erosion control blankets and coir fiber logs. Coir fiber
logs are dense logs constructed of coconut fiber and are installed along shorelines to buffer wave action. These products are temporary structures degrading over a 36 month period and are typically utilized in stream restoration projects where
the water is consistently moving. Coir logs are very expensive and are typically not necessary for shoreline restorations conducted on ponds and lakes. Erosion control blankets are recommended anytime planting is being conducted on bare
soil. Blankets utilized in restoration should be temporary biodegradable products and are typically made of straw, coconut fiber, or a combination thereof. Permanent “Turf Reinforcement Mats” should not be used; these products leave
permanent thick plastic netting on the soil that will make supplemental seeding/planting efforts difficult if needed at a future date. After soil preparation install the native seed, install an appropriate erosion control blanket according to the
manufacturer, and finally install plugs through the blanket, if necessary, ensuring not to damage the blanket.
Keys To Success:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Conduct appropriate site preparation prior to seeding, ensure all existing vegetation is dead
Utilize high-quality seed and plants from a trusted source
Seeding should result in 110 – 130 seeds per square foot or more
Ensure good seed-to-soil contact is achieved, never try to rake seed into existing vegetation
Cover crop should be Seed Oats or ReGreen only, Annual Rye Grass should NEVER be utilized as cover crop
Fall seeding typically results in higher wildflower production, whereas spring seeding typically results in better native grass establishment
When seeding in the fall on any type of bare soil utilize an erosion control blanket
Large Seed - Virginia Wild Rye
Ecosystem Restoration Primer
Small Seed - Common Mountain Mint
Figure 118. Cover Crop Rows
Fluffy Seed - Stiff Goldenrod
Figure 119. Plug Planting
Stewardship:
There is no more important a task in Natural Areas restoration than stewardship. Stewardship is to Natural Areas what Landscape Maintenance is to traditional landscape. Without stewardship a natural areas restoration will fail and with inadequate
stewardship a natural areas restoration will fail. Because of its importance we highly recommend that stewardship be conducted by a professional ecological restoration firm, particularly during the 3-5 year establishment period after restoration efforts.
Alternately IMSA staff may be trained and equipped to conduct appropriate stewardship, however during this training period a professional firm should be employed to oversee the stewardship and assist with training. Students/Volunteers can and should be
involved in the stewardship process; however we do not recommend a stewardship program that depends upon student/volunteer efforts. Student involvement and volunteerism in regards to stewardship should be considered an educational or community
strengthening exercise that supplements a permanent and structured stewardship program.
The stewardship program must be aggressive, dynamic, and site-driven. Stewardship actions typically consist of mowing, selective herbicide applications, seed collection & supplemental seeding/planting, prescribed fire, and monitoring. A good quote
regarding stewardship is “It’s not about making native plants grow, it’s about making non-native plants not grow”. The basic premise is that our native plants evolved here, they are meant to be here and they will grow just fine if we give them the
opportunity. Because our native plants evolved here they are genetically encoded to survive drought, fire, and extreme cold. One of the ways they manage to survive under these conditions is by developing that deep, extensive root system that we associate
with our native plant species. A young high-quality native seedling expends much of its energy developing their root system throughout the first 2-3 growing seasons. This native seedling may only be 3-6” above ground, but may already have a 12-24” deep
root system. Alternately, weedy species such as Giant Ragweed can grow 9 foot high in a single season. Obviously if we don’t keep the Ragweed cut to a 6” height throughout the growing season our native seedlings won’t stand much of a chance for survival.
1. Mowing: Mowing is typically conducted by tractor with a large mowing implement keeping the vegetation cut to a height of 6-8” throughout the first growing season and a height of 10-12” throughout the second growing season. During the first two
years of restoration the main reason for mowing is to allow sufficient light to the small native seedlings. If the site is inaccessible by mower it can be mown by hand with push mowers and/or brush cutters. Invasive and weedy species should not be allowed
to reproduce on site at any time, mowing and/or hand pulling these plants before they are able to set seed is an efficient method of removal. Hand pulling is an activity that can be conducted easily and safely by student/volunteer groups. By not allowing
these species to set seed, annual and biennial species can be effectively eradicated from the site in 2-3 years time. The spread of perennial species can be slowed and somewhat controlled by this method in most cases, however herbicide application is the
only way to eradicate perennial plants. Some invasive species, such as Canada Thistle, spread by underground rhizomes (roots) and will continue to colonize even if not allowed to set seed. Mowing also includes cutting and treating woody plant material as
explained in the Site Preparation section.
Figure 120. Herbicide Applications
2. Selective Herbicide Application: When applied in accordance to the manufacturer’s recommendations by a certified herbicide applicator who has been trained in plant identification, herbicide has proven to be a safe and extremely effective tool for natural
areas stewardship. Herbicides come in either selective or non-selective products. Selective herbicides only affect certain types of plants, i.e. only broadleaf plants, only grasses, etc. Non-selective herbicides affect any plant that it is applied to, regardless of
type. The standard application method of both types of herbicide for stewardship is by backpack sprayer. An even more selective method of application is hand-wicking, a process where the applicator wears a rubber glove under a cotton exterior glove onto
which herbicide is applied. The applicator then applies the herbicide to individual plants by grasping them with a saturated glove. This is an extremely effective application method for Cattails. A colored dye should be added to any herbicide that is to be
applied within a natural area. This allows the applicator to see where they have applied the herbicide so they do not over apply. It also allows the owner to see where the herbicides have been applied, including any overspray.
3. Seed Collection & Supplemental Seeding/Planting: Supplemental seeding or planting may be necessary in areas where the original restoration seeding did not perform, to improve plant diversity, to replace plants killed by herbicide application, or after
a natural disturbance such as flooding. Anytime there is a void created it should be filled with native species, if we don’t fill the void Mother Nature will…likely with weedy species that take advantage of disturbances, such as Giant Ragweed. Once a natural
area becomes established seed collection should become a regular part of stewardship. Native seed should be collected at appropriate times (May/June for Sedges, Fall for most other species). Disperse collected seed over the site after the prescribed fire is
conducted and/or utilize it to fill any voids. Seed collection and dispersal is an activity that can be conducted easily and safely by student/volunteer groups.
4. Prescribed Fire: Fire was a frequent part of pre-settlement native ecosystems and served to maintain the integrity of our natural areas by stimulating plant growth, preventing brush encroachment, and recycling nutrients. In ecosystem restoration,
prescribed fire will perform these ancient functions while helping to manage many invasive species. Newly seeded areas should be allowed to establish for 2-3 growing seasons prior to prescribed fire application. Prescribed fires are typically conducted
between the months of November and April, however the fire should be planned to minimize impact on nesting birds and migratory wildlife. We recommend that when areas become burnable that the entire area be burned annually for 5-7 years to aid in
plant establishment. Once the area is well established an alternating burn schedule can be implemented in order to maintain un-burned areas for wildlife refuge. Prescribed fire should be conducted by highly trained personnel with appropriate permits and
following an approved burn plan. We recommend that all personnel on the burn line be certified through the National Wildfire Coordinating Group’s (NWCG) S130/S190 training. The burn boss should have additional training in ignitions and fire behavior
as well as extensive prior burn experience. Students/Volunteers can be utilized on the burn line if they have the proper training and equipment, including Personal Protective Equipment; otherwise students/volunteers should always be welcome as smoke
monitors.
5. Monitoring: Natural areas monitoring is a very helpful tool in tracking the progress of a restoration or the health of an established natural area. Based on the data gathered an annual report can be formulated to inform the Academy on current conditions,
potential problems, and recommendations for improvement. Monitoring and reporting are prime activities for student and faculty involvement.
Keys To Success:
• The typical establishment period for a seeded natural area is 3-5 years, stewardship efforts will be elevated during this time but should begin to taper off after the third year
• Stewardship is all about weed control…know the common weeds and how to kill them and/or how to keep them from reproducing (i.e. timed mowings)
• When contracting out natural areas restoration, require the installation contractor to steward the natural area until they meet a set performance criteria in the third or fifth year
Figure 121. Mowing
Figure 122. Prescribed Fire
Garlic Mustard
(Alliaria petiolata)
Aggressive Non-Native
Found in: Woodlands &
Savannas
Queen Anne’s Lace
(Daucus carota)
Invasive Non-Native
Found in: Prairie’s & Savannas
Japanese Honeysuckle
(Lonicera japonica)
Found in: Woodlands
Common Reed
(Phragmites australis)
Found in: Wetlands
Common Buckthorn
(Rhamnus cathartica)
Savannas
Reed Canary Grass
(Phalaris arundinacea)
Found in: Wetlands
White Mulberry
(Morus alba)
Non-Native
Found in: Woodlands
Curly Dock
(Rumex crispus)
Non-Native
Found in: Prairies & Savannas
Hairy Aster
(Symphyotrichum pilosum)
Aggressive Native
Found in: Prairie’s &
Woodlands
Timothy
(Phleum pratense)
Invasive Non-Native
Found in:Prairie, Wetlands &
Woodlands
Multiflora Rose
(Rosa multiflora)
Invasive Non-Native
Found in: Woodlands
Raspberry Species
(Rubus species)
Aggerssive Native
Found in: Woodlands
Yellow Sweet Clover
(Melilotus officinalis)
Invasive Non-Native
Found in:Prairies & Wetlands
Bittersweet Nightshade
(Solanum dulcamara)
Invasive Non-Native
Found in:Prairies,
Woodlands & Wetlands
Wild Parsnip
(Solanum dulcamara)
Aggressive Weedy Native
Found in:Prairies,
Woodlands & Wetlands
Dame’s Rocket
(Hesperis matronalis)
Savannas
Upright Cinquefoil
(Potentilla recta)
Non-Native
Found in: Disturbed Areas
Norway Maple
(Acer platinoides)
Found in: Woodlands
Ecosystem Stewardship Primer
ecology + vision, llc. P.O. Box 601 . Leland IL 60531 . 815.751.2470 .
www.ecologyllc.com
1.2 - Prairie Seed Mix (Mesic Soils)
1.1 - Prairie Seed Mix (Dry-Mesic Soils)
MIX STATISTICS
Base Mix Without Supplemental Plugs
Average Mix Height
Median Mix Height
Mix Height Mode (# of Occurrences in Mix)
Number of Native Species in Mix
Lbs/Acre of Native Seed
Propagules per Square Foot
Native FQI
Native Mean C Value
Native Mean W Value
National Wetland Category
3.1' Mix Description: ecology's Dry-Mesic Prairie Seed Mix is designed for sunny areas that remain mesic-dry for most of the growing season.
3.0'
3.0' (11), 2.0' (9), 4.0' (8), 5.0' (3), 2.5' (3), This mix is composed of a diverse collection of shorter-profile prairie grass and wildflower species, and is ideal for areas where taller
3.5' (2), 1.5' (1) vegetation is not appropriate. Almost 80% of the seeds in this mix typically grow to an average high of 3' or less and over 51% of the mix
36 is composed of wildflowers that will provide an array of blooms from April through October. When installed and maintained correctly
22.68
107.46 this mix will typically begin flowering in it's second growing season, starting with the yellow blooms of annual Partridge Pea and biennial
36.67 Black-Eyed Susan, with additional more colorful permanent species appearing in years 3-5. This mix can be supplemented with the
6.11
recommended plug list provided below to add diversity, color, and resilience to the long-term health of your prairie.
3.31
Faculative Upland - Occasionally occurs in wetlands, but usually occur in non-wetlands (estimated 1% - 33% probability)
Grasses, Sedges, & Rushes (Monocots)
ACRONYM
BOUCUR
ELYCAN
PANVIR
SCHSCO
SCIENTIFIC NAME
Bouteloua curtipendula
Elymus canadensis
Panicum virgatum
Schizachyrium scoparium
COMMON NAME
SIDE-OATS GRAMA
CANADA WILD RYE
SWITCH GRASS
LITTLE BLUESTEM GRASS
C-Value
W-Value
WETNESS
8
4
5
5
5
1
-1
4
UPL
FACFAC+
FACU-
C-Value
W-Value
WETNESS
9
7
10
8
5
6
9
4
8
3
9
2
5
4
6
4
8
4
7
9
7
1
9
5
4
5
9
8
2
4
10
7
5
5
5
2
4
5
5
1
5
5
-1
5
5
3
5
3
5
1
1
4
0
3
2
5
4
4
5
5
2
5
3
-1
UPL
UPL
[UPL]
FACU+
FACUUPL
UPL
FACUPL
UPL
FAC+
UPL
UPL
FACU
UPL
FACU
UPL
FACFACFACUFAC
FACU
FACU+
UPL
FACUFACUUPL
UPL
FACU+
UPL
FACU
FAC+
C-Value
W-Value
WETNESS
4
1
10
6
6
8
9
10
10
8
8
6
5
5
7
7
7
9
-3
5
5
5
3
-3
3
5
5
1
1
5
3
4
4
3
0
5
FACW
UPL
UPL
UPL
FACU
FACW
FACU
UPL
[UPL]
FACFACUPL
FACU
FACUFACUFACU
FAC
UPL
Flowers & Other Broadleaves (Dicots)
ACRONYM
AMOCAN
ASCTUB
ASTCAN
BAPALB
CHAFAS
CORPAL
DALPUR
DESCAA
ECHPAL
ECHPUR
ERYYUC
EUPCOR
HELHEL
LESCAP
LIAASP
MONFIS
PARINT
PENDIG
PHLPIP
POTARU
PYCTEN
RUDHIR
RUDSUB
SOLJUN
SOLRIG
SYMERI
SYMLAE
SYMOOL
TRAOHI
VERSTR
ZIZAPT
ZIZAUR
SCIENTIFIC NAME
Amorpha canescens
Asclepias tuberosa
Astragalus canadensis
Baptisia alba
Chamaecrista fasciculata
Coreopsis palmata
Dalea purpurea
Desmodium canadense
Echinacea pallida
Echinacea purpurea
Eryngium yuccifolium
Euphorbia corollata
Heliopsis helianthoides
Lespedeza capitata
Liatris aspera
Monarda fistulosa
Parthenium integrifolium
Penstemon digitalis
Phlox pilosa
Potentilla arguta
Pycnanthemum tenuifolium
Rudbeckia hirta
Rudbeckia subtomentosa
Solidago juncea
Solidago rigida
Symphyotrichum ericoides
Symphyotrichum laeve
Symphyotrichum oolentangiense
Tradescantia ohiensis
Verbena stricta
Zizia aptera
Zizia aurea
COMMON NAME
LEAD PLANT
BUTTERFLY WEED
CANADIAN MILK VETCH
WHITE WILD INDIGO
PARTRIDGE PEA
PRAIRIE COREOPSIS
PURPLE PRAIRIE CLOVER
SHOWY TICK TREFOIL
PALE PURPLE CONEFLOWER
PURPLE CONEFLOWER
RATTLESNAKE MASTER
FLOWERING SPURGE
FALSE SUNFLOWER
ROUND-HEADED BUSH CLOVER
ROUGH BLAZING STAR
WILD BERGAMOT
WILD QUININE
FOXGLOVE BEARD TONGUE
SAND PRAIRIE PHLOX
PRAIRIE CINQUEFOIL
SLENDER MOUNTAIN MINT
BLACK-EYED SUSAN
SWEET BLACK-EYED SUSAN
EARLY GOLDENROD
STIFF GOLDENROD
HEATH ASTER
SMOOTH BLUE ASTER
SKY-BLUE ASTER
COMMON SPIDERWORT
HOARY VERVAIN
HEART-LEAVED MEADOW PARSNIP
GOLDEN ALEXANDERS
www.ecologyllc.com
HEIGHT
Min-Max (Typical)
2-3' (2.5')
2-5' (3.5')
3-5' (4')
2-3' (3')
HEIGHT
Min-Max (Typical)
COLOR
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
COLOR
1-3.5' (3')
1-3.5' (2.5')
2-4' (3')
2-5' (4')
1-3' (2')
1-2.5' (2')
1.5-3' (2')
3-6' (5')
2-4' (3')
2-5' (4')
2-5' (4')
1-4' (3')
3-6' (5')
2-4' (3')
2.5-5' (3')
3-5' (4')
3-5' (4')
2.5-5' (3.5')
1-3' (2')
1-3' (2')
1-3' (2')
2-3' (2.5')
3-6' (5')
2-4' (3')
3-6' (4')
1-3' (2')
2.5-5' (4')
2-5' (3')
2-4' (3')
1-3' (2')
1-3' (2')
2-4' (3')
Purple
Orange
Cream
White
Yellow
Yellow
Purple
Purple
Pink
Purple
White
White
Yellow
Green
Purple
Purple
White
White
Pink
Yellow
White
Yellow
Yellow
Yellow
Yellow
White
Blue
Blue
Blue
Blue
Yellow
Yellow
HEIGHT
COLOR
BLOOM TIME
A M J J A S O
BLOOM TIME
A M J J A S O
OZ/ACRE
SEEDS/OZ
6,000 150.0000
5,200
16.0000
14,000
8.0000
15,000
80.0000
Monocot Subtotals
SEEDS/OZ
OZ/ACRE
16,000
4,300
17,000
1,700
2,700
10,000
15,000
5,500
5,200
6,600
7,500
8,000
6,300
8,000
16,000
70,000
7,000
130,000
19,000
230,000
220,000
92,000
43,000
290,000
41,000
200,000
55,000
80,000
8,000
28,000
12,000
11,000
Dicot Subtotals
BASE MIX TOTALS
5.0000
8.0000
1.0000
4.0000
8.0000
4.0000
6.0000
1.0000
8.0000
16.0000
6.0000
1.0000
4.0000
2.0000
4.0000
1.0000
2.0000
3.0000
0.5000
0.1250
0.2500
8.0000
1.0000
0.2500
0.5000
0.2500
1.0000
1.0000
3.0000
2.0000
4.0000
3.0000
LB/ACRE
9.38
1.00
0.50
5.00
15.88
LB/ACRE
0.31
0.50
0.06
0.25
0.50
0.25
0.38
0.06
0.50
1.00
0.38
0.06
0.25
0.13
0.25
0.06
0.13
0.19
0.03
0.01
0.02
0.50
0.06
0.02
0.03
0.02
0.06
0.06
0.19
0.13
0.25
0.19
6.80
22.68
% OF MIX
by Weight
by Seed Count
41.34%
19.23%
4.41%
1.78%
2.20%
2.39%
22.05%
25.63%
70.00%
49.03%
% OF MIX
by Weight
by Seed Count
1.38%
1.71%
2.20%
0.73%
0.28%
0.36%
1.10%
0.15%
2.20%
0.46%
1.10%
0.85%
1.65%
1.92%
0.28%
0.12%
2.20%
0.89%
4.41%
2.26%
1.65%
0.96%
0.28%
0.17%
1.10%
0.54%
0.55%
0.34%
1.10%
1.37%
0.28%
1.50%
0.55%
0.30%
0.83%
8.33%
0.14%
0.20%
0.03%
0.61%
0.07%
1.17%
2.20%
15.72%
0.28%
0.92%
0.07%
1.55%
0.14%
0.44%
0.07%
1.07%
0.28%
1.17%
0.28%
1.71%
0.83%
0.51%
0.55%
1.20%
1.10%
1.03%
0.83%
0.70%
30.00%
50.97%
100.00%
100.00%
MIX STATISTICS
Average Mix Height
Median Mix Height
Native FQI
Native Mean C Value
Native Mean W Value
3.8' Mix Description: ecology's Mesic Prairie Seed Mix is designed for sunny areas that range from moist to dry throughout the year. Certain
4.0'
species in this mix can take moderately saturated soils for wetter years, while others are adapted for dry periods. Over 64% of this mix is
4.0' (11), 3.0' (10) 5.0' (6), 2.0' (5), 7.0' (2), 8.0'
(1), 6.0' (1), 3.5' (1), 2.5' (1), 1.0' (1) composed of wildflowers that will provide an array of blooms from April through October. This wildflower-packed seed mix will attract a
39 plethora of native butterflies and birds. This is a medium height prairie nearly 50% of seeds typically averaging 3' high or less and under
15.7
13% of seeds typically averaging 5' high or more at maturity. This mix can be supplemented with the recommended plug list provided
169.4
32.5 below to add diversity, color, and resilience to the long-term health of your prairie.
5.2
-0.2
Facultative - Equally likely to occur in wetlands or non-wetlands (estimated probability 34%-66%)
ACRONYM
CXBREV
CXSCOP
CXVULP
ELYVIR
GLYSTR
JUNDUD
PANVIR
SCHSCO
SPAPEC
SCIENTIFIC NAME
Carex brevior
Carex scoparia
Carex vulpinoidea
Elymus virginicus
Glyceria striata
Juncus dudleyi
Panicum virgatum
Spartina pectinata
COMMON NAME
PLAINS OVAL SEDGE
LANCE-FRUITED OVAL SEDGE
BROWN FOX SEDGE
VIRGINIA WILD RYE
FOWL MANNA GRASS
DUDLEY'S RUSH
SWITCH GRASS
PRAIRIE CORD GRASS
C-Value
W-Value
WETNESS
4
7
2
4
4
4
5
5
4
3
-3
-5
-2
-3
0
-1
4
-4
[FACU]
FACW
OBL
FACW[FACW]
[FAC]
FAC+
FACUFACW+
C-Value
W-Value
WETNESS
9
4
8
5
5
4
9
3
9
4
5
4
6
4
4
6
9
5
1
9
3
5
4
4
4
5
4
5
10
7
5
-5
3
4
0
1
-3
5
-1
-4
-4
3
-4
3
1
-5
4
-4
3
2
1
5
-2
4
-3
-2
-4
-3
3
-1
UPL
OBL
FACU
FACUFAC
FACFACW
UPL
FAC+
FACW+
FACW+
FACU
FACW+
FACU
FAC[OBL]
FACUFACW+
FACU
FACU+
FACUPL
FACWFACUFACW
FACWFACW+
FACW
FACU
FAC+
C-Value
W-Value
WETNESS
9
8
8
8
10
8
7
-3
-3
1
1
-2
-3
0
FACW
FACW
FACFACFACWFACW
FAC
ACRONYM
AMOCAN
ASCINC
ASCPUR
CHAFAS
CORTRP
DESCAA
DOEUMB
ECHPUR
ERYYUC
EUPPER
HELAUT
LESCAP
LOBSIP
MONFIS
PENDIG
PHYVIV
POTARU
PYCVIR
RUDHIR
RUDSUB
RUDTRI
SILLAC
SOLGRG
SOLRIG
SYMNOV
THADAD
VERHAS
VERFAS
ZIZAPT
ZIZAUR
SCIENTIFIC NAME
Amorpha canescens
Asclepias incarnata
Asclepias purpurascens
Chamaecrista fasciculata
Coreopsis tripteris
Desmodium canadense
Doellingeria umbellata
Echinacea purpurea
Eupatorium perfoliatum
Helenium autumnale
Lespedeza capitata
Lobelia siphilitica
Monarda fistulosa
Penstemon digitalis
Physostegia virginiana
Potentilla arguta
Pycnanthemum virginianum
Rudbeckia hirta
Rudbeckia triloba
Silphium laciniatum
Solidago graminifolia
Solidago rigida
Symphyotrichum novae-angliae
Thalictrum dasycarpum
Verbena hastata
Vernonia fasciculata
Zizia aptera
Zizia aurea
COMMON NAME
LEAD PLANT
SWAMP MILKWEED
PURPLE MILKWEED
PARTRIDGE PEA
TALL COREOPSIS
SHOWY TICK TREFOIL
FLAT-TOP ASTER
PURPLE CONEFLOWER
RATTLESNAKE MASTER
COMMON BONESET
SNEEZEWEED
GREAT BLUE LOBELIA
WILD BERGAMOT
OBEDIENT PLANT
PRAIRIE CINQUEFOIL
COMMON MOUNTAIN MINT
BLACK-EYED SUSAN
BROWN-EYED SUSAN
COMPASS PLANT
COMMON GRASS-LEAVED GOLDENROD
STIFF GOLDENROD
NEW ENGLAND ASTER
PURPLE MEADOW RUE
BLUE VERVAIN
COMMON IRONWEED
GOLDEN ALEXANDERS
HEIGHT
Min-Max (Typical)
6"-18" (12")
1-3' (2')
2-4' (3')
3-5' (4')
2-4' (3')
1-3' (2')
3-5' (4')
2-3' (3')
5-9' (7')
HEIGHT
Min-Max (Typical)
1-3.5' (3')
3-5' (4')
2-4" (3')
1-3' (2')
5-8' (7')
3-6' (5')
3-5' (4')
2-5' (4')
2-5' (4')
3-6' (4')
2-5' (4')
2-4' (3')
2-4' (3')
3-5' (4')
2.5-5' (3.5')
3-5' (4')
1-3' (2')
1-4' (3')
2-3' (2.5')
3-6' (5')
4-6' (5')
6-9' (8')
2-4' (3')
3-6' (4')
4-6' (5')
4-7' (6')
4-7' (5')
4-6' (5')
1-3' (2')
2-4' (3')
COLOR
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
COLOR
Purple
Magenta
Purple
Yellow
Yellow
Purple
Cream
Purple
White
White
Yellow
Green
Blue
Purple
White
Purple
Yellow
White
Yellow
Yellow
Yellow
Yellow
Yellow
Yellow
Purple
Cream
Blue
Purple
Yellow
Yellow
BLOOM TIME
A M J J A S O
BLOOM TIME
A M J J A S O
Recommended Plug Species to Supplement Low Profile Prairie Seed Mix
ACRONYM
ANECAN
ASCVER
BAPLEO
CEAAME
DODMEA
GENAND
GENFLA
GENPUB
GEUTRI
HEURIC
LIAPYC
PENPAL
ROSBLA
ROSCAR
RUEHUM
SISALB
VERVIR
VIOPEL
SCIENTIFIC NAME
Anemone canadensis
Asclepias verticillata
Baptisia leucophaea
Ceanothus americanus
Dodecatheon meadia
Gentiana andrewsii
Gentiana flavida
Gentiana puberulenta
Geum triflorum
Heuchera richardsonii
Liatris pycnostachya
Penstemon pallidus
Rosa blanda
Rosa carolina
Ruellia humilis
Sisyrinchium albidum
Veronicastrum virginicum
Viola pedata lineariloba
SUPPLEMENTED MIX STATISTICS
Base Seed Mix Including Supplemental Plugs
Native FQI
Native Mean C Value
Native Mean W Value
COMMON NAME
MEADOW ANEMONE (1, 3)
WHORLED MILKWEED (2, 3)
CREAM WILD INDIGO (1, 2, 3)
NEW JERSEY TEA (1, 3)
SHOOTING STAR (1, 2)
BOTTLE GENTIAN (1, 2, 4)
YELLOWISH GENTIAN (1, 4)
PRAIRIE GENTIAN (1, 2, 4, 5)
PRAIRIE SMOKE (1, 2)
PRAIRIE ALUM ROOT (1, 2)
PRAIRIE BLAZING STAR (1, 2)
PALE BEARD TONGUE (5)
EARLY WILD ROSE (1, 3)
PASTURE ROSE (1, 3)
HAIRY RUELLIA (3)
COMMON BLUE-EYED GRASS (2)
CULVER'S ROOT (1)
BIRD'S FOOT VIOLET (1, 5)
Min-Max (Typical)
1-2' (1.5')
1-2' (1.5')
1-3' (2')
1-3' (2')
1-2' (1.5')
1-3' (2')
2-4' (3')
6"-2' (1')
6-12" (9")
1-3' (2')
1-2' (1.5')
1-2' (1')
3-6' (5')
1-3' (2')
6-12" (9")
4-9" (6")
2-5' (3')
2-6" (3")
White
White
Cream
White
Pink
Blue
Cream
Blue
Pink
Green
Magenta
Cream
Pink
Pink
Purple
Blue
White
Purple
BLOOM TIME
A M J J A S O
PLUGS/FLAT
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
1
1
38
38
38
38
FLATS/
ACRE
0.5
0.5
0.5
0.5
0.5
0.5
0.5
0.5
0.5
0.5
0.5
0.5
0.0
0.0
0.5
0.5
0.5
0.5
8.0
PLUGS/
ACRE
19.00
19.00
19.00
19.00
19.00
19.00
19.00
19.00
19.00
19.00
19.00
19.00
19.00
19.00
19.00
19.00
19.00
19.00
342.00
PLUGS/
SF
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.01
% OF TOTAL
PLUGS
5.56%
5.56%
5.56%
5.56%
5.56%
5.56%
5.56%
5.56%
5.56%
5.56%
5.56%
5.56%
5.56%
5.56%
5.56%
5.56%
5.56%
5.56%
100.00%
54 Some species are not appropriate for inclusion into a seed mix, however they may be very desirable to have as part of the permanent plant matrix because of their ecological, habitat,
47.08 and/or aesthetic value. The plug species listed above are appropriate for supplementing this seed mix. Following are the common reasons for not including these species within the
6.41 seed mix: 1-Does not germinate well from seed in the field, 2-Seed is very expensive, 3-Low number of seeds per ounce, 4-Requires specialized microclimate, 5-Seed is not
3.15 commercially available or is only available in small quantaties
Faculative Upland - Occasionally occurs in wetlands, but usually occur in non-wetlands (estimated 1% - 33% propability)
Notes:
1.) ecology recommends installing a Mycorrhizal Inocculant with the above seed mix at 40 lbs/acre
2.) For spring planting, ecology recommends installing a cover crop of Seed Oats (Avena sativa) with the above seed mix at 40 lbs/acre
3.) For fall planting, ecology recommends installing a cover crop of ReGreen (a Winter Wheat x Wheatgrass Sterile Hybrid) with the above mix at 50 lbs/acre
4.) **At no time should Annual nor Perennial Rye (Lolium multiflorum or perenne) be utilized as a cover crop**
Recommended Plug Species to Supplement Mesic-Wet Prairie Seed Mix
ACRONYM
CASHEB
GENAND
HEURIC
LIAPYC
NAPDIO
ONOSEN
VERVIR
SCIENTIFIC NAME
Cassia hebecarpa
Gentiana andrewsii
Napaea dioica
Onoclea sensibilis
Native FQI
Native Mean C Value
Native Mean W Value
COMMON NAME
WILD SENNA (3)
GLADE MALLOW (1, 3)
SENSITIVE FERN (5)
CULVER'S ROOT (1)
46
38.5
5.7
-0.4
HEIGHT
Min-Max (Typical)
3-6' (5')
1-3' (2')
1-3' (2')
1-2' (1.5')
5-8' (7')
1-2' (1.5')
2-5' (3')
COLOR
Yellow
Blue
Green
Magenta
White
N/A
White
BLOOM TIME
A M J J A S O
SEEDS/OZ
OZ/ACRE
29,000
84,000
100,000
4,200
90,000
3,200,000
14,000
15,000
6,600
Monocot Subtotals
SEEDS/OZ
2.0000
2.0000
4.0000
40.0000
1.0000
0.1250
30.0000
60.0000
6.0000
OZ/ACRE
16,000
4,800
4,500
2,700
14,000
5,500
67,000
6,600
7,500
160,000
130,000
8,000
500,000
70,000
130,000
11,000
230,000
220,000
92,000
43,000
34,000
660
350,000
41,000
65,000
11,000
93,000
24,000
12,000
11,000
Dicot Subtotals
BASE MIX TOTALS
PLUGS/FLAT
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
2.0000
10.0000
0.5000
7.0000
2.0000
2.5000
6.0000
8.0000
7.0000
1.0000
1.0000
2.0000
1.0000
3.0000
8.0000
3.0000
0.1250
0.5000
7.0000
10.0000
2.0000
1.0000
0.5000
2.0000
3.0000
3.0000
1.0000
1.2500
7.0000
5.0000
FLATS/
ACRE
0.5
1.0
0.5
3.0
0.5
1.0
2.0
8.0
LB/ACRE
0.13
0.13
0.25
2.50
0.06
0.01
1.88
3.75
0.38
9.07
LB/ACRE
0.13
0.63
0.03
0.44
0.13
0.16
0.38
0.50
0.44
0.06
0.06
0.13
0.06
0.19
0.50
0.19
0.01
0.03
0.44
0.63
0.13
0.06
0.03
0.13
0.19
0.19
0.06
0.08
0.44
0.31
6.59
15.66
PLUGS/
ACRE
19.00
38.00
19.00
114.00
19.00
38.00
76.00
304.00
% OF MIX
by Weight
by Seed Count
0.80%
0.79%
0.80%
2.28%
1.60%
5.42%
15.97%
2.28%
0.40%
1.22%
0.05%
5.42%
11.98%
5.69%
23.95%
12.20%
2.40%
0.54%
57.93%
35.82%
% OF MIX
by Weight
by Seed Count
0.80%
0.43%
3.99%
0.65%
0.20%
0.03%
2.79%
0.26%
0.80%
0.38%
1.00%
0.19%
2.40%
5.45%
3.19%
0.72%
2.79%
0.71%
0.40%
2.17%
0.40%
1.76%
0.80%
0.22%
0.40%
6.78%
1.20%
2.85%
3.19%
14.09%
1.20%
0.45%
0.05%
0.39%
0.20%
1.49%
2.79%
8.73%
3.99%
5.83%
0.80%
0.92%
0.40%
0.01%
0.20%
2.37%
0.80%
1.11%
1.20%
2.64%
1.20%
0.45%
0.40%
1.26%
0.50%
0.41%
2.79%
1.14%
2.00%
0.75%
42.07%
64.18%
100.00%
100.00%
PLUGS/
SF
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.01
% OF TOTAL
PLUGS
6.25%
12.50%
6.25%
37.50%
6.25%
12.50%
25.00%
100.00%
Some species are not appropriate for inclusion into a seed mix, however they may be very desirable to have as part of the permanent plant matrix because of their ecological, habitat,
and/or aesthetic value. The plug species listed above are appropriate for supplementing this seed mix. Following are the common reasons for not including these species within the
seed mix: 1-Does not germinate well from seed in the field, 2-Seed is very expensive, 3-Low number of seeds per ounce, 4-Requires specialized microclimate, 5-Seed is not
commercially available or is only available in small quantaties
Facultative - Equally likely to occur in wetlands or non-wetlands (estimated probability 34%-66%)
Notes:
www.ecologyllc.com
2.1 & 2.2 - Sedge Meadow Wetland Seed Mix (Wet Soils)
1.3 - Prairie Seed Mix (Mesic-Wet Soils)
MIX STATISTICS
Average Mix Height
Median Mix Height
Native FQI
Native Mean C Value
Native Mean W Value
4.1' Mix Description: ecology's Mesic-Wet Prairie Seed Mix is designed for sunny areas that are moist to fairly wet; without drying out
4.0'
completely except in particularly dry years. Certain species in this mix can take consistently saturated soils. Nearly 49% of this mix is
4.0' (14), 3.0' (12), 5.0' (9), 7.0' (3),
8.0' (2), 6.0' (2), 2.0' (2), 6'' (2), 3.5' composed of wildflowers that will provide an array of blooms from April through October. This is a medium-tall height prairie with over
(1), 8'' (1) 41% of seeds typically averaging 3.0' high or less and just over 16% of seeds typically averaging 5.0' high or more at maturity. This mix
45
can be supplemented with the recommended plug list provided below to add diversity, color, and resilience to the long-term health of
11.5
205.4 your prairie.
32.6
4.9
-1.9
Faculative Wetland (-) - Usually occurs in wetlands, but occasionally found in non-wetlands (estimated 67% - 99% probability). The "-" sign denotes that this mix generally has a lesser estimated probability of
occurring in wetlands than the "Faculative Wetland" general indicator, but a greater estimated probablity of occurring in wetlands than a mix having the "Faculative" general indicator.
ANDGER
CALCAN
CXBREV
CXSCOP
CXVULP
ELEACI
ELEERY
ELYVIR
GLYSTR
JUNDUD
PANVIR
SCIATR
SCICYP
SORNUT
SPAPEC
SCIENTIFIC NAME
Andropogon gerardii
Calamagrostis canadensis
Carex brevior
Carex scoparia
Carex vulpinoidea
Eleocharis acicularis
Eleocharis erythropoda
Elymus virginicus
Glyceria striata
Juncus dudleyi
Panicum virgatum
Scirpus atrovirens
Scirpus cyperinus
Sorghastrum nutans
Spartina pectinata
COMMON NAME
BIG BLUESTEM GRASS
BLUE JOINT GRASS
PLAINS OVAL SEDGE
BROWN FOX SEDGE
NEEDLE SPIKE RUSH
RED-ROOTED SPIKE RUSH
VIRGINIA WILD RYE
FOWL MANNA GRASS
DUDLEY'S RUSH
SWITCH GRASS
DARK GREEN RUSH
WOOL GRASS
INDIAN GRASS
PRAIRIE CORD GRASS
C-Value
W-Value
WETNESS
5
3
4
7
2
2
2
4
4
4
5
4
6
5
4
1
-5
3
-3
-5
-5
-5
-2
-3
0
-1
-5
-5
2
-4
FACOBL
[FACU]
FACW
OBL
OBL
OBL
FACW[FACW]
[FAC]
FAC+
OBL
OBL
FACU+
FACW+
C-Value
W-Value
WETNESS
ASCINC
ASCPUR
BIDCER
CORTRP
DESCAA
DOEUMB
ECHPUR
ERYYUC
EUPPER
EUTMAC
HELAUT
IRIVIS
LOBSIP
MIMRIN
MONFIS
PENDIG
PHYVIV
PYCVIR
RUDSUB
RUDTRI
SILLAC
SILPER
SOLGRG
SOLRID
SOLRIG
SYMNOV
THADAD
VERHAS
VERFAS
ZIZAUR
SCIENTIFIC NAME
Asclepias incarnata
Asclepias purpurascens
Bidens cernua
Coreopsis tripteris
Desmodium canadense
Echinacea purpurea
Eutrochium maculatum
Helenium autumnale
Iris virginica shrevei
Lobelia siphilitica
Mimulus ringens
Monarda fistulosa
Penstemon digitalis
Pycnanthemum virginianum
Rudbeckia triloba
Silphium laciniatum
Silphium perfoliatum
Solidago riddellii
Solidago rigida
Thalictrum dasycarpum
Verbena hastata
Zizia aurea
COMMON NAME
SWAMP MILKWEED
PURPLE MILKWEED
NODDING BUR MARIGOLD
TALL COREOPSIS
SHOWY TICK TREFOIL
FLAT-TOP ASTER
PURPLE CONEFLOWER
RATTLESNAKE MASTER
COMMON BONESET
SPOTTED JOE PYE WEED
SNEEZEWEED
BLUE FLAG
GREAT BLUE LOBELIA
MONKEY FLOWER
WILD BERGAMOT
OBEDIENT PLANT
COMMON MOUNTAIN MINT
BROWN-EYED SUSAN
COMPASS PLANT
CUP PLANT
GRASS-LEAVED GOLDENROD
RIDDELL'S GOLDENROD
STIFF GOLDENROD
NEW ENGLAND ASTER
PURPLE MEADOW RUE
BLUE VERVAIN
COMMON IRONWEED
GOLDEN ALEXANDERS
4
8
5
5
4
9
3
9
4
4
5
5
6
6
4
4
6
5
9
3
5
5
4
7
4
4
5
4
5
7
-5
3
-5
0
1
-3
5
-1
-4
-5
-4
-5
-4
-5
3
1
-5
-4
2
1
5
-2
-2
-5
4
-3
-2
-4
-3
-1
OBL
FACU
OBL
FAC
FACFACW
UPL
FAC+
FACW+
OBL
FACW+
OBL
FACW+
OBL
FACU
FAC[OBL]
FACW+
FACU+
FACUPL
FACWFACWOBL
FACUFACW
FACWFACW+
FACW
FAC+
C-Value
W-Value
WETNESS
9
8
8
8
10
8
7
-3
-3
1
1
-2
-3
0
FACW
FACW
FACFACFACWFACW
FAC
Recommended Plug Species to Supplement Mesic-Wet Prairie Seed Mix
ACRONYM
CASHEB
GENAND
HEURIC
LIAPYC
NAPDIO
ONOSEN
VERVIR
SCIENTIFIC NAME
Cassia hebecarpa
Gentiana andrewsii
Napaea dioica
Onoclea sensibilis
Native FQI
Native Mean C Value
Native Mean W Value
Native FQI
Native Mean C Value
Native Mean W Value
HEIGHT
Min-Max (Typical)
6-8' (7')
3-5' (4')
6"-18" (12")
1-3' (2')
2-4' (3')
6-12" (8")
2-4' (3')
3-5' (4')
2-4' (3')
1-3' (2')
3-5' (4')
3-6' (5')
3-5' (4')
3-7' (6')
5-9' (7')
COLOR
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
BLOOM TIME
A M J J A S O
SEEDS/OZ
OZ/ACRE
10,000
280,000
29,000
84,000
100,000
70,000
78,000
4,200
90,000
3,200,000
14,000
460,000
1,700,000
12,000
6,600
Monocot Subtotals
24.0000
2.0000
2.0000
2.0000
4.0000
1.0000
1.0000
32.0000
1.0000
0.1250
16.0000
0.5000
1.0000
16.0000
6.0000
LB/ACRE
1.50
0.13
0.13
0.13
0.25
0.06
0.06
2.00
0.06
0.01
1.00
0.03
0.06
1.00
0.38
6.79
% OF MIX
by Weight
by Seed Count
13.00%
2.68%
1.08%
6.26%
1.08%
0.65%
1.08%
1.88%
2.17%
4.47%
0.54%
0.78%
0.54%
0.87%
17.33%
1.50%
0.54%
1.01%
0.07%
4.47%
8.67%
2.50%
0.27%
2.57%
0.54%
19.00%
8.67%
2.15%
3.25%
0.44%
58.84%
51.22%
3.6'
3.0'
3.0' (13), 4.0' (10), 5.0' (7), 2.0' (7), 8.0' (1), 7.0'
(1), 2.5' (1), 8'' (1)
41
8.9
321.4
30.6
4.8
-4.2
Mix Description: ecology's Sedge Meadow Wetland Seed Mix is designed for consistently saturated soil that does not dry out or areas
with shallow standing water (up to 2" of consistent water depth). In addition to the traditional wetland application, this mix is also ideal
for use directly adjacent to the waterline of pond and stream shorelines where the soil remains saturated and the water level
consistently fluctuates 1-2". Over 68% of the seeds in this mix are sedges, rushes, and grasses. To complement this dark green aesthetic
over 31% of the mix is composed of wildflowers, which will provide an array of blooms from May through October. This Wetland mix will
result in a short-medium profile with over 44% of seeds typically averaging 3.0' high or less at maturity. This mix can be supplemented
with the recommended plug list provided below to add diversity, color, and resilience to the long-term health of your wetland.
Faculative Wetland (+) - Usually occurs in wetlands, but occasionally found in non-wetlands (estimated 67% - 99% probability). The "+" sign denotes that this mix generally has a greater estimated probability of occurring in
wetlands than the "Faculative" general indicator, but a lesser estimated probablity of occurring in wetlands than a mix having the "Faculative Wetalnd" general indicator.
CALCAN
CXCRIS
CXHYST
CXLACU
CXSCOP
CXSTIP
CXVULP
ELEACI
ELEERY
ELYVIR
GLYSTR
JUNDUD
JUNEFF
LEEORY
SCIATR
SCICYP
SPAPEC
SCIENTIFIC NAME
Carex cristatella
Carex hystericina
Carex lacustris
Carex scoparia
Carex stipata
Carex vulpinoidea
Eleocharis acicularis
Eleocharis erythropoda
Elymus virginicus
Glyceria striata
Juncus dudleyi
Juncus effusus
Leersia oryzoides
Scirpus atrovirens
Scirpus cyperinus
Spartina pectinata
COMMON NAME
BLUE JOINT GRASS
CRESTED OVAL SEDGE
PORCUPINE SEDGE
COMMON LAKE SEDGE
COMMON FOX SEDGE
BROWN FOX SEDGE
NEEDLE SPIKE RUSH
RED-ROOTED SPIKE RUSH
VIRGINIA WILD RYE
FOWL MANNA GRASS
DUDLEY'S RUSH
COMMON RUSH
RICE CUT GRASS
DARK GREEN RUSH
WOOL GRASS
PRAIRIE CORD GRASS
C-Value
W-Value
WETNESS
3
4
5
6
7
3
2
2
2
4
4
4
7
4
4
6
4
-5
-4
-5
-5
-3
-5
-5
-5
-5
-2
-3
0
-5
-5
-5
-5
-4
OBL
FACW+
OBL
OBL
FACW
OBL
OBL
OBL
OBL
FACW[FACW]
[FAC]
OBL
OBL
OBL
OBL
FACW+
C-Value
W-Value
WETNESS
4
4
8
9
4
4
5
6
3
5
6
5
7
5
6
5
6
4
5
4
7
4
4
5
-5
-5
-5
-3
-4
-5
-4
-5
-3
-5
-4
-5
-5
-5
-5
-5
-5
-5
-2
-2
-5
-3
-4
-3
OBL
OBL
OBL
FACW
FACW+
OBL
FACW+
OBL
FACW
OBL
FACW+
OBL
OBL
[OBL]
OBL
OBL
[OBL]
OBL
FACWFACWOBL
FACW
FACW+
FACW
C-Value
W-Value
WETNESS
6
5
8
7
8
9
7
-5
-5
-3
-5
-3
-5
-4
OBL
OBL
FACW
OBL
FACW
[OBL]
FACW+
ACRONYM
MIX STATISTICS
Average Mix Height
Median Mix Height
ACRONYM
ACRONYM
COMMON NAME
WILD SENNA (3)
GLADE MALLOW (1, 3)
SENSITIVE FERN (5)
CULVER'S ROOT (1)
www.ecologyllc.com
HEIGHT
Min-Max (Typical)
3-5' (4')
2-4" (3')
2-4' (3')
5-8' (7')
3-6' (5')
3-5' (4')
2-5' (4')
2-5' (4')
3-6' (4')
4-7' (5')
2-5' (4')
2-4' (3')
2-4' (3')
2-4' (2.5')
3-5' (4')
2.5-5' (3.5')
3-5' (4')
1-4' (3')
3-6' (5')
4-6' (5')
6-9' (8')
5-10' (8')
2-4' (3')
2-4' (3')
3-6' (4')
4-6' (5')
4-7' (6')
4-7' (5')
4-6' (5')
2-4' (3')
HEIGHT
Min-Max (Typical)
3-6' (5')
1-3' (2')
1-3' (2')
1-2' (1.5')
5-8' (7')
1-2' (1.5')
2-5' (3')
COLOR
Magenta
Purple
Yellow
Yellow
Purple
Cream
Purple
White
White
Pink
Yellow
Blue
Blue
Purple
Purple
White
Purple
White
Yellow
Yellow
Yellow
Yellow
Yellow
Yellow
Yellow
Purple
Cream
Blue
Purple
Yellow
COLOR
Yellow
Blue
Green
Magenta
White
N/A
White
BLOOM TIME
A M J J A S O
BLOOM TIME
A M J J A S O
OZ/ACRE
SEEDS/OZ
4,800
4,500
21,000
14,000
5,500
67,000
6,600
7,500
160,000
95,000
130,000
1,000
500,000
2,300,000
70,000
130,000
11,000
220,000
43,000
34,000
660
1,400
350,000
93,000
41,000
65,000
11,000
93,000
24,000
11,000
Dicot Subtotals
BASE MIX TOTALS
PLUGS/FLAT
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
6.0000
1.0000
3.0000
2.0000
2.5000
1.5000
8.0000
3.0000
1.0000
2.5000
1.0000
8.0000
1.0000
0.5000
3.0000
4.0000
3.0000
0.5000
2.0000
2.0000
1.0000
0.2500
0.5000
1.0000
2.0000
4.0000
1.5000
1.0000
1.2500
8.0000
FLATS/
ACRE
0.5
1.0
1.0
3.0
0.5
0.5
2.0
8.5
LB/ACRE
0.38
0.06
0.19
0.13
0.16
0.09
0.50
0.19
0.06
0.16
0.06
0.50
0.06
0.03
0.19
0.25
0.19
0.03
0.13
0.13
0.06
0.02
0.03
0.06
0.13
0.25
0.09
0.06
0.08
0.50
4.75
11.54
PLUGS/
ACRE
19.00
38.00
38.00
114.00
19.00
19.00
76.00
323.00
% OF MIX
by Weight
by Seed Count
3.25%
0.32%
0.54%
0.05%
1.62%
0.70%
1.08%
0.31%
1.35%
0.15%
0.81%
1.12%
4.33%
0.59%
1.62%
0.25%
0.54%
1.79%
1.35%
2.65%
0.54%
1.45%
4.33%
0.09%
0.54%
5.59%
0.27%
12.85%
1.62%
2.35%
2.17%
5.81%
1.62%
0.37%
0.27%
1.23%
1.08%
0.96%
1.08%
0.76%
0.54%
0.01%
0.14%
0.00%
0.27%
1.96%
0.54%
1.04%
1.08%
0.92%
2.17%
2.91%
0.81%
0.18%
0.54%
1.04%
0.68%
0.34%
4.33%
0.98%
41.16%
48.78%
100.00%
100.00%
PLUGS/
SF
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.01
% OF TOTAL
PLUGS
5.88%
11.76%
11.76%
35.29%
5.88%
5.88%
23.53%
100.00%
-1.8 commercially available or is only available in small quantaties
Faculative Wetland (-) - Usually occurs in wetlands, but occasionally found in non-wetlands (estimated 67% - 99%). The "-" sign denotes that this mix generally has a lesser estimated probability of occurring in
wetlands than the "Faculative Wetland" general indicator, but a greater estimated probablity of occurring in wetlands than a mix having the "Faculative" general indicator.
ACRONYM
ALISUB
ASCINC
CHEGLB
DOEUMB
EUPPER
EUTMAC
HELAUT
HIBLAE
IMPCAP
IRIVIS
LOBSIP
LYCAME
LYTALA
MENARV
MIMRIN
PENSED
PHYVIV
SAGLAT
SILPER
SOLGRG
SOLRID
SYMNOV
VERHAS
VERFAS
SCIENTIFIC NAME
Alisma subcordatum
Asclepias incarnata
Chelone glabra
Helenium autumnale
Hibiscus laevis
Impatiens capensis
Iris virginica shrevei
Lobelia siphilitica
Lycopus americanus
Lythrum alatum
Mentha arvensis villosa
Mimulus ringens
Penthorum sedoides
Sagittaria latifolia
Solidago riddellii
Verbena hastata
COMMON NAME
COMMON WATER PLANTAIN
SWAMP MILKWEED
TURTLEHEAD
FLAT-TOP ASTER
COMMON BONESET
SPOTTED JOE PYE WEED
SNEEZEWEED
HALBERD-LEAVED ROSE MALLOW
ORANGE JEWELWEED
BLUE FLAG
GREAT BLUE LOBELIA
COMMON WATER HOREHOUND
WINGED LOOSESTRIFE
WILD MINT
MONKEY FLOWER
DITCH STONECROP
OBEDIENT PLANT
COMMON ARROWHEAD
CUP PLANT
COMMON GRASS-LEAVED GOLDENROD
RIDDELL'S GOLDENROD
NEW ENGLAND ASTER
BLUE VERVAIN
COMMON IRONWEED
Recommended Plug Species to Supplement Wetland Seed Mix
ACRONYM
CXEMOR
CXSTRI
GENAND
LOBCAR
ONOSEN
PEDLAN
SPIALB
SCIENTIFIC NAME
Carex emoryi
Carex stricta
Gentiana andrewsii
Lobelia cardinalis
Onoclea sensibilis
Pedicularis lanceolata
Spiraea alba
Native FQI
Native Mean C Value
Native Mean W Value
COMMON NAME
RIVERBANK SEDGE (5)
COMMON TUSSOCK SEDGE (2, 3)
CARDINAL FLOWER (1, 2, 4)
SENSITIVE FERN (5)
FEN BETONY (1, 2, 5)
MEADOWSWEET (1, 5)
HEIGHT
Min-Max (Typical)
3-5' (4')
2-4' (3')
2-4' (3')
2-4' (3')
1-3' (2')
2-4' (3')
2-4' (3')
6-12" (8")
2-4' (3')
3-5' (4')
2-4' (3')
1-3' (2')
1-3' (2')
3-5' (4')
3-6' (5')
3-5' (4')
5-9' (7')
HEIGHT
Min-Max (Typical)
1-3' (2')
3-5' (4')
3-6' (5')
3-5' (4')
3-6' (4')
4-7' (5')
2-5' (4')
3-6' (5')
2-5' (4')
2-4' (3')
2-4' (3')
1-3' (2')
2-4' (3')
1-3' (2')
2-4' (2.5')
1-3' (2')
3-5' (4')
2-4' (3')
5-10' (8')
2-4' (3')
2-4' (3')
4-6' (5')
4-7' (5')
4-6' (5')
HEIGHT
Min-Max (Typical)
2-4' (3')
2-4' (3')
1-3' (2')
3-5' (4')
1-2' (1.5')
2-4' (3')
3-5' (4')
COLOR
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
COLOR
White
Magenta
Cream
Cream
White
Pink
Yellow
Pink
Orange
Blue
Blue
White
Purple
White
Purple
Green
Purple
White
Yellow
Yellow
Yellow
Purple
Blue
Purple
COLOR
N/A
N/A
Blue
Red
N/A
Yellow
White
BLOOM TIME
A M J J A S O
BLOOM TIME
A M J J A S O
BLOOM TIME
A M J J A S O
SEEDS/OZ
OZ/ACRE
280,000
58,000
30,000
11,000
84,000
34,000
100,000
70,000
78,000
4,200
90,000
3,200,000
1,000,000
34,000
460,000
1,700,000
6,600
Monocot Subtotals
SEEDS/OZ
1.0000
0.5000
0.5000
0.5000
1.0000
3.0000
2.0000
0.7500
1.0000
32.0000
2.0000
0.5000
0.5000
15.0000
4.0000
2.0000
15.0000
OZ/ACRE
60,000
4,800
92,000
67,000
160,000
95,000
130,000
2,800
4,000
1,000
500,000
130,000
3,000,000
300,000
2,300,000
1,300,000
11,000
61,000
1,400
350,000
93,000
65,000
93,000
24,000
Dicot Subtotals
BASE MIX TOTALS
PLUGS/FLAT
38
38
38
38
38
38
0
4.0000
16.0000
1.0000
3.0000
1.0000
3.0000
1.0000
2.0000
1.0000
16.0000
2.0000
0.7500
0.0625
0.1250
0.5000
0.5000
1.0000
1.0000
0.5000
0.2500
1.0000
2.5000
1.0000
2.0000
FLATS/
ACRE
2.0
1.0
0.5
3.0
0.5
0.5
0.0
7.5
LB/ACRE
0.06
0.03
0.03
0.03
0.06
0.19
0.13
0.05
0.06
2.00
0.13
0.03
0.03
0.94
0.25
0.13
0.94
5.08
LB/ACRE
0.25
1.00
0.06
0.19
0.06
0.19
0.06
0.13
0.06
1.00
0.13
0.05
0.00
0.01
0.03
0.03
0.06
0.06
0.03
0.02
0.06
0.16
0.06
0.13
3.82
8.90
PLUGS/
ACRE
76.00
38.00
19.00
114.00
19.00
19.00
25.00
310.00
% OF MIX
by Weight
by Seed Count
0.70%
2.00%
0.35%
0.21%
0.35%
0.11%
0.35%
0.04%
0.70%
0.60%
2.11%
0.73%
1.40%
1.43%
0.53%
0.38%
0.70%
0.56%
22.47%
0.96%
1.40%
1.29%
0.35%
11.43%
0.35%
3.57%
10.53%
3.64%
2.81%
13.14%
1.40%
24.29%
10.53%
0.71%
57.04%
65.07%
% OF MIX
by Weight
by Seed Count
2.81%
1.71%
11.23%
0.55%
0.70%
0.66%
2.11%
1.44%
0.70%
1.14%
2.11%
2.04%
0.70%
0.93%
1.40%
0.04%
0.70%
0.03%
11.23%
0.11%
1.40%
7.14%
0.53%
0.70%
0.04%
1.34%
0.09%
0.27%
0.35%
8.21%
0.35%
4.64%
0.70%
0.08%
0.70%
0.44%
0.35%
0.01%
0.18%
0.63%
0.70%
0.66%
1.76%
1.16%
0.70%
0.66%
1.40%
0.34%
42.96%
34.93%
100.00%
100.00%
PLUGS/
SF
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.01
% OF TOTAL
PLUGS
24.52%
12.26%
6.13%
36.77%
6.13%
6.13%
8.06%
100.00%
35.5 and/or aesthetic value. The plug species listed above are appropriate for supplementing this seed mix. Following are the common reasons for not including these species within the seed
5.1 mix: 1-Does not germinate well from seed in the field, 2-Seed is very expensive, 3-Low number of seeds per ounce, 4-Requires specialized microclimate, 5-Seed is not commercially
available or is only available in small quantaties
-4.2
Faculative Wetland (+) - Usually occurs in wetlands, but occasionally found in non-wetlands (estimated 67% - 99%). The "+" sign denotes that this mix generally has a greater estimated probability of occurring in wetlands than
the "Faculative" general indicator, but a lesser estimated probablity of occurring in wetlands than a mix having the "Faculative Wetalnd" general indicator.
Notes:
Notes:
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3.2a - Woodland Seed Mix (Mesic Soils)
3.1 - Wooded Bluff Seed Mix (Dry-Mesic Soils)
MIX STATISTICS
Average Mix Height
Median Mix Height
Native FQI
Native Mean C Value
Native Mean W Value
3.4' Mix Description: ecology's Wooded Bluff Seed Mix is designed for areas with moderate-dense native tree populations (10+ mature trees/acre) that have
3.0'
a mostly closed canopy and a light-moderate understory tree/shrub layer along major/minor rivers providing part-full shade. These areas may flood
3.0' (6), 2.0' (6), 5.0' (3), 2.5' (3), 6.0' (2),
frequently fluctuating with the rise and fall of the river, but remain dry across steeper slopes that create a bluff. This mix will help establish a
7.0' (1), 4.0' (1)
herbaceous understory that will provide erosion control, habitat, and a fuel source for conducting regular prescribed fire. Over 22% of this mix is
24
12.9 composed of wildflowers that will provide an array of blooms from April through October. This is a short height seed mix with over 76% of seeds
76.8 typically averaging 3.0' high or less and only 17% of seeds typically averaging 5.0' high or more at maturity. ecology highly recommends that this seed
26.3 mix be supplemented with the recommended plug list provided below to add diversity, color, and resilience to the long-term health of your wooded
5.4 bluff, especially in order to establish many of the beautiful spring ephemeral wildflowers historically associated with the wooded bluff ecosystem.
1.6
Faculative (+) - Equally likely to occur in wetlands or uplands (estimated 34% - 66% probability). The "+" sign denotes that this mix generally has a greater estimated probability of occurring in wetlands than the
"Faculative" general indicator, but a lesser estimated probablity of occurring in wetlands than a mix having the "Faculative Wetland" general indicator.
SORNUT
SCHSCO
ELYVIR
GLYSTR
SCIENTIFIC NAME
Sorghastrum nutans
Elymus virginicus
Glyceria striata
COMMON NAME
INDIAN GRASS
VIRGINIA WILD RYE
FOWL MANNA GRASS
C-Value
W-Value
WETNESS
5
5
4
4
2
4
-2
-3
FACU+
FACUFACW[FACW]
C-Value
W-Value
WETNESS
8
7
10
3
9
4
5
6
3
5
3
2
7
3
7
5
2
5
10
7
5
5
5
0
-3
5
0
5
3
-3
4
0
0
1
3
5
3
-3
3
-1
UPL
UPL
[UPL]
FAC
FACW
[UPL]
[FAC]
UPL
FACU
FACW
FACUFAC
FAC
FACFACU
UPL
[FACU]
FACW
FACU
FAC+
C-Value
W-Value
WETNESS
4
7
1
7
8
5
5
3
5
-2
5
0
5
-3
3
0
3
4
FACWUPL
FAC
UPL
FACW
FACU
FAC
FACU
FACU-
ACRONYM
ARNATR
ASCTUB
ASTCAN
CAMAME
CASHEB
GERMAC
HYDVIR
LIAASP
MAIRAC
MERVIR
OSMCLO
POLGVI
PYCTEN
RUDTRI
SOLFLE
SOLULM
SYMDRU
VERALT
ZIZAPT
ZIZAUR
SCIENTIFIC NAME
Arnoglossum atriplicifolium
Asclepias tuberosa
Astragalus canadensis
Campanula americana
Cassia hebecarpa
Geranium maculatum
Hydrophyllum virginianum
Liatris aspera
Maianthemum racemosum
Mertensia virginica
Osmorhiza claytonii
Polygonum virginianum
Pycnanthemum tenuifolium
Rudbeckia triloba
Solidago flexicaulis
Solidago ulmifolia
Symphyotrichum drummondii
Verbesina alternifolia
Zizia aptera
Zizia aurea
COMMON NAME
PALE INDIAN PLANTAIN
BUTTERFLY WEED
CANADIAN MILK VETCH
TALL BELLFLOWER
WILD SENNA
WILD GERANIUM
VIRGINIA WATERLEAF
ROUGH BLAZING STAR
FEATHERY FALSE SOLOMON'S SEAL
VIRGINIA BLUEBELLS
HAIRY SWEET CICELY
WOODLAND KNOTWEED
SLENDER MOUNTAIN MINT
BROWN-EYED SUSAN
BROAD-LEAVED GOLDENROD
ELM-LEAVED GOLDENROD
DRUMMOND'S ASTER
WINGSTEM
GOLDEN ALEXANDERS
Recommended Plug Species to Supplement Wooded Floodplain Seed Mix
ACRONYM
ARITRI
ASACAN
CXBLAN
HESSPA
ONOSEN
PHLDIV
POLREP
POLBIC
VIOPUB
SCIENTIFIC NAME
Arisaema triphyllum
Asarum canadense
Carex blanda
Hesperostipa spartea
Onoclea sensibilis
Phlox divaricata
Polemonium reptans
Polygonatum biflorum var. commutatum
Viola pubescens
Native FQI
Native Mean C Value
Native Mean W Value
MIX STATISTICS
Average Mix Height
Median Mix Height
Native FQI
Native Mean C Value
Native Mean W Value
3.2'
3.0'
3.0' (8), 2.0' (5), 5.0' (3), 4.0' (2), 3.5' (2),
1.0' (2), 7.0' (1), 6.0' (1), 2.5' (1), 1.5' (1)
Mix Description: ecology's Woodland Seed Mix is designed for areas with moderate-dense native tree populations (10+ mature
trees/acre) that have a mostly closed canopy and a light-moderate understory tree/shrub layer providing part-full shade and that have
soils which remain mesic for most of the growing season. This mix will help establish a diverse herbaceous understory that will provide
habitat and a fuel source for conducting regular prescribed fire. Over 60% of this mix is composed of wildflowers that will provide an
array of blooms from April through October. This is a medium height prairie with over 31% of seeds typically averaging 3.0' high or less
at maturity. ecology highly recommends that this seed mix be supplemented with the recommended plug list provided below to add
diversity, color, and resilience to the long-term health of your woodland, especially in order to establish many of the beautiful spring
ephemeral wildflowers historically associated with the woodland ecosystem.
26
17.2
73.2
26.9
5.3
2.8
ACRONYM
COMMON NAME
JACK-IN-THE-PULPIT (1, 3)
WILD GINGER (1, 2, 3, 5)
COMMON WOOD SEDGE (5)
PORCUPINE GRASS (1, 3)
SENSITIVE FERN (5)
WOODLAND PHLOX (1, 2, 5)
JACOB'S LADDER (2, 3)
SMOOTH SOLOMON'S SEAL (3)
YELLOW VIOLET (3, 5)
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HEIGHT
Min-Max (Typical)
3-7' (6')
2-3' (3')
3-5' (4')
2-4' (3')
HEIGHT
Min-Max (Typical)
4-8' (6')
1-3.5' (2.5')
2-4' (3')
3-6' (5')
3-6' (5')
1-3' (2')
1-3' (2')
2.5-5' (3')
1-3' (2')
1-3' (2')
1-3' (2.5')
1-3' (2')
1-3' (2')
4-6' (5')
2-4' (3')
1-3' (2.5')
2-4' (3')
4-9' (7')
1-3' (2')
2-4' (3')
HEIGHT
Min-Max (Typical)
1-3' (2')
to 8"
2-3' (2.5')
3-5' (4')
1-2' (1.5')
1-2' (1')
1-2' (1')
2-4' (3')
to 6"
COLOR
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
COLOR
White
Orange
Cream
Blue
Yellow
Purple
Purple
Purple
White
Blue
White
White
White
Yellow
Yellow
Yellow
White
Yellow
Yellow
Yellow
COLOR
Green
Red
N/A
N/A
N/A
Blue
Blue
Green
Yellow
BLOOM TIME
A M J J A S O
BLOOM TIME
A M J J A S O
BLOOM TIME
A M J J A S O
SEEDS/OZ
OZ/ACRE
12,000
15,000
4,200
90,000
Monocot Subtotals
SEEDS/OZ
16.0000
50.0000
50.0000
16.0000
OZ/ACRE
6,000
4,300
17,000
170,000
1,400
5,000
2,800
16,000
400
9,700
2,400
3,500
220,000
34,000
84,000
130,000
80,000
9,000
12,000
11,000
Dicot Subtotals
BASE MIX TOTALS
PLUGS/FLAT
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
LB/ACRE
1.00
3.13
3.13
1.00
8.25
LB/ACRE
0.5000
8.0000
0.5000
2.0000
8.0000
0.5000
3.7500
2.0000
16.0000
1.0000
2.0000
3.0000
0.2500
9.0000
1.0000
1.0000
3.0000
5.0000
5.0000
3.0000
0.03
0.50
0.03
0.13
0.50
0.03
0.23
0.13
1.00
0.06
0.13
0.19
0.02
0.56
0.06
0.06
0.19
0.31
0.31
0.19
4.66
12.91
FLATS/
ACRE
0.5
0.5
1.0
0.5
0.5
2.0
2.0
0.5
1.0
8.5
PLUGS/
ACRE
19.00
19.00
38.00
19.00
19.00
76.00
76.00
19.00
38.00
323.00
% OF MIX
by Weight
by Seed Count
7.75%
5.74%
24.21%
22.42%
24.21%
6.28%
7.75%
43.04%
63.92%
77.48%
% OF MIX
by Weight
by Seed Count
0.24%
0.09%
3.87%
1.03%
0.24%
0.25%
0.97%
10.16%
3.87%
0.33%
0.24%
0.07%
1.82%
0.31%
0.97%
0.96%
7.75%
0.19%
0.48%
0.29%
0.97%
0.14%
1.45%
0.31%
0.12%
1.64%
4.36%
1.03%
0.48%
0.51%
0.48%
1.64%
1.45%
1.43%
2.42%
0.18%
2.42%
0.96%
1.45%
0.97%
36.08%
22.52%
100.00%
100.00%
PLUGS/
SF
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.01
% OF TOTAL
PLUGS
5.88%
5.88%
11.76%
5.88%
5.88%
23.53%
23.53%
5.88%
11.76%
100.00%
30.3 and/or aesthetic value. The plug species listed above are appropriate for supplementing this seed mix. Following are the common reasons for not including these species within the seed
5.3 mix: 1-Does not germinate well from seed in the field, 2-Seed is very expensive, 3-Low number of seeds per ounce, 4-Requires specialized microclimate, 5-Seed is not commercially
1.6 available or is only available in small quantaties
"Faculative" general indicator, but a lesser estimated probablity of occurring in wetlands than a mix having the "Faculative Wetalnd" general indicator.
Notes:
ACRONYM
BROPUB
CXROSE
ELYHYS
ELYVIL
ELYVIR
SCIENTIFIC NAME
Bromus pubescens
Carex rosea
Elymus hystrix
Elymus villosus
Elymus virginicus
COMMON NAME
WOODLAND BROME
CURLY-STYLED WOOD SEDGE
BOTTLEBRUSH GRASS
SILKY WILD RYE
VIRGINIA WILD RYE
C-Value
W-Value
WETNESS
5
4
5
5
4
2
5
5
3
-2
FACU+
UPL
UPL
FACU
FACW-
C-Value
W-Value
WETNESS
5
2
6
9
3
7
4
5
5
3
5
4
6
9
7
5
5
2
8
7
7
5
3
1
5
0
5
5
5
0
3
-3
1
5
2
3
5
5
3
5
2
-1
UPL
FACU
FACUPL
FAC
UPL
[UPL]
UPL
[FAC]
FACU
FACW
FACUPL
FACU+
FACU
UPL
UPL
[FACU]
UPL
FACU+
FAC+
C-Value
W-Value
WETNESS
7
5
4
7
5
2
6
6
5
8
10
9
5
4
5
3
6
6
5
7
5
3
5
-2
5
5
3
5
3
5
5
2
-1
3
3
0
3
4
5
4
5
4
FACU
UPL
FACWUPL
UPL
FACU
UPL
FACU
UPL
UPL
FACU+
FAC+
FACU
FACU
FAC
FACU
FACUUPL
FACUUPL
FACU-
ACRONYM
AGASCR
ALLCAN
AQUCAN
ASCEXA
CAMAME
EUTPUR
GERMAC
HELSTR
HYDVIR
MAIRAC
MERVIR
PENDIG
PENPAL
RUDSUB
SOLFLE
SOLULM
SYMCOR
SYMDRU
SYMSHO
THADIO
ZIZAUR
SCIENTIFIC NAME
Agastache scrophulariaefolia
Allium canadense
Aquilegia canadensis
Asclepias exaltata
Campanula americana
Eutrochium purpureum
Geranium maculatum
Helianthus strumosus
Mertensia virginica
Penstemon digitalis
Penstemon pallidus
Solidago ulmifolia
Symphyotrichum cordifolium
Symphyotrichum shortii
Thalictrum dioicum
Zizia aurea
COMMON NAME
PURPLE GIANT HYSSOP
WILD GARLIC
WILD COLUMBINE
POKE MILKWEED
TALL BELLFLOWER
PURPLE JOE PYE WEED
WILD GERANIUM
PALE-LEAVED SUNFLOWER
VIRGINIA WATERLEAF
VIRGINIA BLUEBELLS
PALE BEARD TONGUE
ARROW-LEAVED ASTER
DRUMMOND'S ASTER
SHORT'S ASTER
EARLY MEADOW RUE
GOLDEN ALEXANDERS
Recommended Plug Species to Supplement Woodland Seed Mix
ACRONYM
ALLTRT
ANEVIR
ARITRI
ASACAN
CXPENS
CLAVIR
DICCUC
DODMEA
ERYALB
ISOBIT
MITDIP
OSMCLI
PHLDIV
PODPEL
POLREP
POLBIC
SANCAD
SILSTE
TRIREC
UVUGRA
VIOPUB
SCIENTIFIC NAME
Allium tricoccum
Anemone virginiana
Arisaema triphyllum
Asarum canadense
Carex pensylvanica
Claytonia virginica
Dicentra cucullaria
Dodecatheon meadia
Erythronium albidum
Isopyrum biternatum
Mitella diphylla
Osmunda claytoniana
Phlox divaricata
Podophyllum peltatum
Polemonium reptans
Sanguinaria canadensis
Silene stellata
Trillium recurvatum
Uvularia grandiflora
Viola pubescens
Native FQI
Native Mean C Value
Native Mean W Value
COMMON NAME
WILD LEEK (2, 3)
TALL ANEMONE (2, 3)
WILD GINGER (1, 2, 3, 5)
COMMON OAK SEDGE (1, 2, 5)
SPRING BEAUTY (1, 2, 5)
DUTCHMAN'S BREECHES (5)
WHITE TROUT LILY (5)
FALSE RUE ANEMONE (1, 2, 3)
BISHOP'S CAP (1, 2, 5)
INTERRUPTED FERN (5)
MAY APPLE (3)
BLOODROOT (1, 2, 3)
STARRY CAMPION (2)
RED TRILLIUM (5)
BELLWORT (1, 3)
YELLOW VIOLET (3, 5)
HEIGHT
Min-Max (Typical)
3-5' (4')
1-2' (1')
2-5' (3.5')
2-4' (3')
3-5' (4')
HEIGHT
Min-Max (Typical)
5-7' (6')
1-2' (1.5')
2-4' (3')
4-6' (5')
3-6' (5')
5-8' (7')
1-3' (2')
2-4' (3')
1-3' (2')
1-3' (2')
1-3' (2')
2.5-5' (3.5')
1-2' (1')
3-6' (5')
2-4' (3')
1-3' (2.5')
2-4' (3')
2-4' (3')
2-4' (3')
1-3' (2')
2-4' (3')
HEIGHT
Min-Max (Typical)
6-12" (8")
2-4' (3')
1-3' (2')
to 8"
6-12" (8")
to 6"
6-12" (8")
1-2' (1.5')
4-8" (6")
6-12" (8")
6-18" (12")
3-5' (4')
1-2' (1')
1-2.5' (2')
1-2' (1')
2-4' (3')
6-18" (12")
2-4' (3')
1-2' (1.5')
6-18" (12")
to 6"
COLOR
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
COLOR
Purple
Pink
Red
White
Blue
Pink
Purple
Yellow
Purple
White
Blue
White
Cream
Yellow
Yellow
Yellow
Blue
White
Blue
Green
Yellow
COLOR
White
White
Green
Red
N/A
Pink
White
Pink
White
White
White
N/A
Blue
White
Blue
Green
White
White
Red
Yellow
Yellow
BLOOM TIME
A M J J A S O
BLOOM TIME
A M J J A S O
BLOOM TIME
A M J J A S O
OZ/ACRE
7,600
53,000
7,600
5,500
4,200
Monocot Subtotals
SEEDS/OZ
15.0000
2.0000
48.0000
20.0000
128.0000
OZ/ACRE
93,000
560
38,000
3,000
170,000
42,000
5,000
4,200
2,800
400
9,700
130,000
180,000
43,000
84,000
130,000
135,000
80,000
60,000
7,300
11,000
Dicot Subtotals
BASE MIX TOTALS
PLUGS/FLAT
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
LB/ACRE
0.94
0.13
3.00
1.25
8.00
13.31
LB/ACRE
4.0000
12.0000
2.0000
2.0000
1.0000
0.5000
1.5000
3.0000
2.0000
16.0000
1.5000
4.0000
1.0000
2.0000
0.5000
1.0000
1.0000
1.0000
0.5000
1.5000
4.0000
0.25
0.75
0.13
0.13
0.06
0.03
0.09
0.19
0.13
1.00
0.09
0.25
0.06
0.13
0.03
0.06
0.06
0.06
0.03
0.09
0.25
3.88
17.19
FLATS/
ACRE
0.5
0.5
0.5
0.5
1.0
0.5
0.5
1.0
2.0
0.5
0.5
0.5
3.0
0.5
3.0
0.5
0.5
1.0
0.5
0.5
1.0
19.0
PLUGS/
ACRE
19.00
19.00
19.00
19.00
38.00
19.00
19.00
38.00
76.00
19.00
19.00
19.00
114.00
19.00
114.00
19.00
19.00
38.00
19.00
19.00
38.00
722.00
% OF MIX
by Weight
by Seed Count
5.45%
3.58%
0.73%
3.32%
17.45%
11.44%
7.27%
3.45%
46.55%
16.86%
77.45%
38.65%
% OF MIX
by Weight
by Seed Count
1.45%
11.67%
4.36%
0.21%
0.73%
2.38%
0.73%
0.19%
0.36%
5.33%
0.18%
0.66%
0.55%
0.24%
1.09%
0.40%
0.73%
0.18%
5.82%
0.20%
0.55%
0.46%
1.45%
16.31%
0.36%
5.64%
0.73%
2.70%
0.18%
1.32%
0.36%
4.08%
0.36%
4.23%
0.36%
2.51%
0.18%
0.94%
0.55%
0.34%
1.45%
1.38%
22.55%
61.35%
100.00%
100.00%
PLUGS/
SF
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.02
% OF TOTAL
PLUGS
2.63%
2.63%
2.63%
2.63%
5.26%
2.63%
2.63%
5.26%
10.53%
2.63%
2.63%
2.63%
15.79%
2.63%
15.79%
2.63%
2.63%
5.26%
2.63%
2.63%
5.26%
100.00%
3.0 commercially available or is only available in small quantaties
Faculative Upland - Occasionally occurs in wetlands, but usually occur in non-wetlands (estimated 1% - 33% propability)
Notes:
SEEDS/OZ
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Areas of 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 3.2b, 3.4 & 3.5 - Prairie-to-Woodland Transitional Seed Mix (Dry-Mesic Soils)
3.3 - Wooded Floodplain Seed Mix (Mesic-Wet Soils)
MIX STATISTICS
Average Mix Height
Median Mix Height
Native FQI
Native Mean C Value
Native Mean W Value
MIX STATISTICS
3.7' Mix Description: ecology's Wooded Floodplain Seed Mix is designed for areas with moderate-dense native tree populations (10+ mature trees/acre)
3.0' that have a mostly closed canopy and a light-moderate understory tree/shrub layer providing part-full shade and that flood periodically for short
3.0' (6), 2.0' (6), 4.0' (5), 7.0' (3), 5.0' (3), periods of time ranging from 24-48 hours, but remain mesic-wet for most of the growing season. This mix will help establish a herbaceous
8.0' (1), 2.5' (1), 6'' (1) understory that will provide erosion control, habitat, and a fuel source for conducting regular prescribed fire. Over 34% of this mix is composed of
26 wildflowers that will provide an array of blooms from April through October. This is a medium-short height seed mix with 51% of seeds typically
19.4 averaging 3.0' high or less and only 13% of seeds typically averaging 5.0' high or more at maturity. ecology highly recommends that this seed mix be
137.2
supplemented with the recommended plug list provided below to add diversity, color, and resilience to the long-term health of your wooded
21.6
4.2 floodplain, especially in order to establish many of the beautiful spring ephemeral wildflowers historically associated with the woodland ecosystem.
-1.3
Faculative Wetland (-) - Usually occurs in wetlands, but occasionally found in non-wetlands (estimated 67% - 99% probability). The "-" sign denotes that this mix generally has a lesser estimated probability of
occurring in wetlands than the "Faculative Wetland" general indicator, but a greater estimated probablity of occurring in wetlands than a mix having the "Faculative" general indicator.
ACRONYM
GLYSTR
CALCAN
CXCRIS
SPAPEC
CXVULP
JUNTOR
LEEORY
ELYVIR
SCIENTIFIC NAME
Glyceria striata
Carex cristatella
Spartina pectinata
Carex vulpinoidea
Juncus torreyi
Leersia oryzoides
Elymus virginicus
COMMON NAME
FOWL MANNA GRASS
BLUE JOINT GRASS
CRESTED OVAL SEDGE
PRAIRIE CORD GRASS
BROWN FOX SEDGE
TORREY'S RUSH
RICE CUT GRASS
VIRGINIA WILD RYE
C-Value
W-Value
WETNESS
4
3
4
4
2
4
4
4
-3
-5
-4
-4
-5
-3
-5
-2
[FACW]
OBL
FACW+
FACW+
OBL
FACW
OBL
FACW-
HEIGHT
Min-Max (Typical)
2-4' (3')
3-5' (4')
2-4' (3')
5-9' (7')
2-4' (3')
6" - 18" (12")
3-5' (4')
3-5' (4')
COLOR
BLOOM TIME
A M J J A S O
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
SEEDS/OZ
OZ/ACRE
90,000
16.0000
280,000
4.0000
58,000
0.5000
6,600
4.0000
100,000
2.0000
1,600,000
0.5000
34,000
4.0000
4,200 200.0000
Monocot Subtotals
LB/ACRE
1.00
0.06
0.03
0.25
0.13
0.03
0.25
12.50
14.25
ACRONYM
CAMAME
CASHEB
GERMAC
HYDVIR
IMPCAP
IMPPAL
MAIRAC
MERVIR
OSMCLO
POLGVI
RUDLAC
RUDTRI
SILPER
SOLFLE
SYMDRU
SYMLAT
VERALT
ZIZAUR
SCIENTIFIC NAME
Campanula americana
Cassia hebecarpa
Geranium maculatum
Impatiens capensis
Impatiens pallida
Mertensia virginica
Osmorhiza claytonii
Polygonum virginianum
Rudbeckia laciniata
Rudbeckia triloba
Symphyotrichum lateriflorum
Verbesina alternifolia
Zizia aurea
COMMON NAME
TALL BELLFLOWER
WILD SENNA
WILD GERANIUM
VIRGINIA WATERLEAF
ORANGE JEWELWEED
YELLOW JEWELWEED
VIRGINIA BLUEBELLS
HAIRY SWEET CICELY
WOODLAND KNOTWEED
WILD GOLDEN GLOW
BROWN-EYED SUSAN
CUP PLANT
DRUMMOND'S ASTER
SIDE-FLOWERING ASTER
WINGSTEM
GOLDEN ALEXANDERS
C-Value
W-Value
WETNESS
3
9
4
5
3
6
3
5
3
2
5
3
5
7
2
4
5
7
0
-3
5
0
-3
-1
3
-3
4
0
-4
1
-2
3
3
-2
-3
-1
FAC
FACW
[UPL]
[FAC]
FACW
[FAC+]
FACU
FACW
FACUFAC
FACW+
FACFACWFACU
[FACU]
FACWFACW
FAC+
C-Value
W-Value
WETNESS
4
5
1
4
10
8
5
5
3
5
-2
-5
0
-3
-2
-3
3
0
3
-4
FACWOBL
FAC
FACW
FACWFACW
FACU
FAC
FACU
FACW+
HEIGHT
Min-Max (Typical)
3-6' (5')
3-6' (5')
1-3' (2')
1-3' (2')
2-5' (4')
3-5' (4')
1-3' (2')
1-3' (2')
1-3' (2.5')
1-3' (2')
5-8' (7')
4-6' (5')
5-10' (8')
2-4' (3')
2-4' (3')
1-3' (2')
4-9' (7')
2-4' (3')
COLOR
BLOOM TIME
A M J J A S O
Blue
Yellow
Purple
Purple
Orange
Yellow
White
Blue
White
White
Yellow
Yellow
Yellow
Yellow
White
White
Yellow
Yellow
SEEDS/OZ
ACRONYM
SCIENTIFIC NAME
Arisaema triphyllum
Caltha palustris
Carex blanda
Lysimachia ciliata
Napaea dioica
Onoclea sensibilis
Phlox divaricata
Polemonium reptans
Ranunculus hispidus var. nitidus
Native FQI
Native Mean C Value
Native Mean W Value
COMMON NAME
MARSH MARIGOLD (5)
FRINGED LOOSESTRIFE (5)
GLADE MALLOW (1, 3)
SENSITIVE FERN (5)
SWAMP BUTTERCUP (5)
HEIGHT
Min-Max (Typical)
1-3' (2')
1-3' (2')
2-3' (2.5')
1-3' (2')
5-8' (7')
1-2' (1.5')
1-2' (1')
1-2' (1')
2-4' (3')
1-2' (1')
COLOR
Green
Yellow
N/A
Yellow
White
N/A
Blue
Blue
Green
Yellow
OZ/ACRE
170,000
1,400
5,000
2,800
4,000
1,600
400
9,700
2,400
3,500
14,000
34,000
1,400
84,000
80,000
250,000
9,000
11,000
Dicot Subtotals
BASE MIX TOTALS
Recommended Plug Species to Supplement Wooded Floodplain Seed Mix
ARITRI
CALTPA
CXBLAN
LYSCIL
NAPDIO
ONOSEN
PHLDIV
POLREP
POLBIC
RANHIN
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BLOOM TIME
PLUGS/FLAT
A M J J A S O
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
2.0000
8.0000
2.0000
3.7500
2.5000
6.2500
16.0000
3.0000
4.2500
3.0000
3.5000
9.0000
1.0000
1.0000
3.0000
0.5000
5.0000
8.0000
FLATS/
ACRE
0.5
0.5
1.0
2.0
0.5
0.5
1.0
2.0
0.5
0.5
9.0
LB/ACRE
0.13
0.50
0.13
0.23
0.16
0.39
1.00
0.19
0.27
0.19
0.22
0.56
0.06
0.06
0.19
0.03
0.31
0.50
5.11
19.36
PLUGS/
ACRE
19.00
19.00
38.00
76.00
19.00
19.00
38.00
76.00
19.00
19.00
342.00
% OF MIX
by Weight
by Seed Count
5.17%
24.09%
0.32%
18.74%
0.16%
0.49%
1.29%
0.44%
0.65%
3.35%
0.16%
13.38%
1.29%
2.28%
64.57%
14.05%
73.61%
76.81%
% OF MIX
by Weight
by Seed Count
0.65%
5.69%
2.58%
0.19%
0.65%
0.17%
1.21%
0.18%
0.81%
0.17%
2.02%
0.17%
5.17%
0.11%
0.97%
0.49%
1.37%
0.17%
0.97%
0.18%
1.13%
0.82%
2.91%
5.12%
0.32%
0.02%
0.32%
1.41%
0.97%
4.01%
0.16%
2.09%
1.61%
0.75%
2.58%
1.47%
26.39%
23.19%
100.00%
100.00%
PLUGS/
% OF TOTAL PLUGS
SF
0.00
5.56%
0.00
5.56%
0.00
11.11%
0.00
22.22%
0.00
5.56%
0.00
5.56%
0.00
11.11%
0.00
22.22%
0.00
5.56%
0.00
5.56%
0.01
100.00%
35 Some species are not appropriate for inclusion into a seed mix, however they may be very desirable to have as part of the permanent plant matrix because of their ecological,
29.4 habitat, and/or aesthetic value. The plug species listed above are appropriate for supplementing this seed mix. Following are the common reasons for not including these species
5.0 within the seed mix: 1-Does not germinate well from seed in the field, 2-Seed is very expensive, 3-Low number of seeds per ounce, 4-Requires specialized microclimate, 5-Seed is
-0.7 not commercially available or is only available in small quantaties
"Faculative" general indicator, but a lesser estimated probablity of occurring in wetlands than a mix having the "Faculative Wetalnd" general indicator.
Notes:
3.1'
3.0'
3.0' (12), 2.0' (8), 5.0' (4), 4.0' (4), 2.5' (4),
3.5' (3), 6' (1), 1.5' (1)
Average Mix Height
Median Mix Height
37
27.8
121.8
32.6
Native FQI
5.4
Native Mean C Value
3.4
Native Mean W Value
Mix Description: ecology's Prairie-to-Savanna Seed Mix is designed for areas initially planted as prairie with the intent of a slow transition
to woodland over time (typically 10+ mature trees/acre) that will ultimatly have a mostly closed canopy and a light-moderate understory
tree/shrub layer providing part-full shade and that have soils which remain mesic for most of the growing season. Over 43% of this mix is
composed of wildflowers that will provide an array of blooms from April through October. This is a short - medium height prairie with over
70% of seeds typically averaging 3.0' high or less at maturity. ecology highly recommends that this seed mix be supplemented with the
recommended plug list provided below to add diversity, color, and resilience to the long-term health of your savanna, especially in order to
establish many of the spring ephemeral wildflowers historically associated with the savanna ecosystem. These areas should be monitored
as tree plantings mature, additional woodland species from the Woodland Seed Mix (3.2a) may be integrated once appropriate
microclimates begin to develop.
Faculative Upland (-) - Occasionally occurs in wetlands, but usually occur in non-wetlands (estimated 1% - 33% probability). The "-" sign denotes that this mix generally has a lesser estimated probability of occurring in
wetlands than the "Faculative Wetland" general indicator, but a greater estimated probablity of occurring in wetlands than a mix having the "Faculative" general indicator.
ACRONYM
BOUCUR
ELYCAN
ELYHYS
ELYVIR
SCHSCO
SCIENTIFIC NAME
Elymus canadensis
Elymus hystrix
Elymus virginicus
COMMON NAME
SIDE-OATS GRAMA
CANADA WILD RYE
BOTTLEBRUSH GRASS
VIRGINIA WILD RYE
C-Value
W-Value
WETNESS
8
4
5
4
5
5
1
5
-2
4
UPL
FACUPL
FACWFACU-
C-Value
W-Value
WETNESS
2
6
6
8
7
6
5
3
2
4
5
4
6
3
5
4
4
4
1
9
6
5
7
5
9
4
8
8
7
2
10
7
3
5
1
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
5
3
5
3
1
3
1
5
3
2
5
5
5
5
5
-3
5
5
2
2
3
-1
FACU
UPL
FACUPL
UPL
UPL
UPL
UPL
UPL
[UPL]
UPL
FACU
UPL
FACU
FACFACU
FACUPL
FACU
FACU+
UPL
UPL
UPL
UPL
UPL
FACW
UPL
UPL
FACU+
FACU+
FACU
FAC+
C-Value
W-Value
WETNESS
5
1
5
4
6
6
5
8
7
8
6
5
7
5
3
5
5
9
5
0
5
5
5
3
5
-3
5
1
5
3
1
0
3
4
4
5
UPL
FAC
UPL
UPL
UPL
FACU
UPL
FACW
UPL
FACUPL
FACU
FACFAC
FACU
FACUFACUUPL
ACRONYM
ALLCAN
ANECYL
AQUCAN
ARNATR
ASCTUB
CORPAL
DESGLU
ECHPUR
EUPCOR
GERMAC
HELSTR
LESCAP
LIAASP
MAIRAC
MAISTE
MONFIS
PENDIG
RATPIN
RUDHIR
RUDSUB
SILSTE
SOLJUN
SOLSPE
SOLULM
SYMLAE
SYMNOV
SYMOOL
SYMSHO
THADIO
TRAOHI
ZIZAPT
ZIZAUR
SCIENTIFIC NAME
Allium canadense
Anemone cylindrica
Aquilegia canadensis
Arnoglossum atriplicifolium
Asclepias tuberosa
Coreopsis palmata
Desmodium glutinosum
Echinacea purpurea
Euphorbia corollata
Geranium maculatum
Helianthus strumosus
Lespedeza capitata
Liatris aspera
Maianthemum stellatum
Monarda fistulosa
Penstemon digitalis
Ratibida pinnata
Rudbeckia hirta
Silene stellata
Solidago juncea
Solidago speciosa
Solidago ulmifolia
Symphyotrichum shortii
Thalictrum dioicum
Zizia aptera
Zizia aurea
COMMON NAME
WILD GARLIC
THIMBLEWEED
WILD COLUMBINE
PALE INDIAN PLANTAIN
BUTTERFLY WEED
PRAIRIE COREOPSIS
POINTED TICK TREFOIL
PURPLE CONEFLOWER
FLOWERING SPURGE
WILD GERANIUM
PALE-LEAVED SUNFLOWER
ROUGH BLAZING STAR
STARRY FALSE SOLOMON'S SEAL
WILD BERGAMOT
YELLOW CONEFLOWER
BLACK-EYED SUSAN
STARRY CAMPION
EARLY GOLDENROD
SHOWY GOLDENROD
SMOOTH BLUE ASTER
NEW ENGLAND ASTER
SKY-BLUE ASTER
SHORT'S ASTER
EARLY MEADOW RUE
COMMON SPIDERWORT
GOLDEN ALEXANDERS
HEIGHT
Min-Max (Typical)
2-3' (2.5')
2-5' (3.5')
2-5' (3.5')
3-5' (4')
2-3' (3')
HEIGHT
Min-Max (Typical)
COLOR
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
COLOR
1-2' (1.5')
1-3' (2')
2-4' (3')
4-8' (6')
1-3.5' (2.5')
1-2.5' (2')
1-3' (2')
2-5' (4')
1-4' (3')
1-3' (2')
2-4' (3')
2-4' (3')
2.5-5' (3')
1-3' (2')
1-3' (2')
3-5' (4')
2.5-5' (3.5')
3-6' (5')
2-3' (2.5')
3-6' (5')
2-4' (3')
2-4' (3')
3-6' (5')
1-3' (2.5')
2.5-5' (4')
4-6' (5')
2-5' (3')
2-4' (3')
1-3' (2')
2-4' (3')
1-3' (2')
2-4' (3')
Pink
White
Red
White
Orange
Yellow
Pink
Purple
White
Purple
Yellow
Green
Purple
White
White
Purple
White
Yellow
Yellow
Yellow
White
Yellow
Yellow
Yellow
Blue
Purple
Blue
Blue
Green
Blue
Yellow
Yellow
HEIGHT
COLOR
BLOOM TIME
A M J J A S O
BLOOM TIME
A M J J A S O
SEEDS/OZ
OZ/ACRE
6,000
5,200
7,600
4,200
15,000
Monocot Subtotals
SEEDS/OZ
80.0000
64.0000
16.0000
32.0000
128.0000
OZ/ACRE
560
26,000
38,000
6,000
4,300
10,000
840
6,600
8,000
5,000
4,200
8,000
16,000
400
400
70,000
130,000
30,000
92,000
43,000
30,000
290,000
95,000
130,000
55,000
65,000
80,000
60,000
7,300
8,000
12,000
11,000
Dicot Subtotals
BASE MIX TOTALS
16.0000
1.0000
1.0000
1.0000
4.0000
2.0000
8.0000
6.0000
1.2500
2.0000
2.2500
1.2500
2.0000
16.0000
16.0000
2.0000
1.5000
6.0000
7.0000
2.0000
1.5000
0.2500
1.0000
0.2500
0.2500
3.0000
2.0000
1.0000
4.0000
3.0000
5.0000
6.0000
LB/ACRE
5.00
4.00
1.00
2.00
8.00
20.00
LB/ACRE
1.00
0.06
0.06
0.06
0.25
0.13
0.50
0.38
0.08
0.13
0.14
0.08
0.13
1.00
1.00
0.13
0.09
0.38
0.44
0.13
0.09
0.02
0.06
0.02
0.02
0.19
0.13
0.06
0.25
0.19
0.31
0.38
7.84
27.84
% OF MIX
by Weight
by Seed Count
17.96%
9.05%
14.37%
6.27%
3.59%
2.29%
7.18%
2.53%
28.73%
36.19%
71.83%
56.33%
% OF MIX
by Weight
by Seed Count
3.59%
0.17%
0.22%
0.49%
0.22%
0.72%
0.22%
0.11%
0.90%
0.32%
0.45%
0.38%
1.80%
0.13%
1.35%
0.75%
0.28%
0.19%
0.45%
0.19%
0.51%
0.18%
0.28%
0.19%
0.45%
0.60%
3.59%
0.12%
3.59%
0.12%
0.45%
2.64%
0.34%
3.68%
1.35%
3.39%
1.57%
12.14%
0.45%
1.62%
0.34%
0.85%
0.06%
1.37%
0.22%
1.79%
0.06%
0.61%
0.06%
0.26%
0.67%
3.68%
0.45%
3.02%
0.22%
1.13%
0.90%
0.55%
0.67%
0.45%
1.12%
0.60%
1.35%
1.24%
28.17%
43.67%
100.00%
100.00%
Recommended Plug Species to Supplement Savanna Seed Mix
ACRONYM
ANEVIR
CXBLAN
CXPENS
CXROSE
CEAAME
DODMEA
ERYALB
GENAND
HESSPA
HEURIC
PENPAL
PHLDIV
PHLPIP
POLREP
POLBIC
ROSCAR
TRIREC
VIOPEL
SCIENTIFIC NAME
Anemone virginiana
Carex blanda
Carex pensylvanica
Carex rosea
Dodecatheon meadia
Erythronium albidum
Gentiana andrewsii
Hesperostipa spartea
Penstemon pallidus
Phlox divaricata
Phlox pilosa
Polemonium reptans
Rosa carolina
Trillium recurvatum
Viola pedata lineariloba
Native FQI
Native Mean C Value
Native Mean W Value
COMMON NAME
TALL ANEMONE (2, 3)
COMMON OAK SEDGE (1, 2, 5)
CURLY-STYLED WOOD SEDGE (2)
NEW JERSEY TEA (1, 3)
WHITE TROUT LILY (5)
PORCUPINE GRASS (1, 3)
PALE BEARD TONGUE (5)
SAND PRAIRIE PHLOX (2)
PASTURE ROSE (1, 3)
RED TRILLIUM (5)
BIRD'S FOOT VIOLET (1, 5)
Min-Max (Typical)
2-4' (3')
2-3' (2.5')
6-12" (8")
1-2' (1')
1-3' (2')
1-2' (1.5')
4-8" (6")
1-3' (2')
3-5' (4')
1-3' (2')
1-2' (1')
1-2' (1')
1-3' (2')
1-2' (1')
2-4' (3')
1-3' (2')
1-2' (1.5')
2-6" (3")
White
N/A
N/A
N/A
White
Pink
White
Blue
N/A
Green
Cream
Blue
Pink
Blue
Green
Pink
Red
Purple
BLOOM TIME
A M J J A S O
PLUGS/FLAT
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
0
38
38
FLATS/
ACRE
0.5
0.5
2.0
1.0
0.5
2.0
0.5
0.5
0.5
0.5
0.5
1.0
1.0
1.0
0.5
0.0
0.5
0.5
13.0
PLUGS/
ACRE
19.00
19.00
76.00
38.00
19.00
76.00
19.00
19.00
19.00
19.00
19.00
38.00
38.00
38.00
19.00
25.00
19.00
19.00
519.00
PLUGS/
SF
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.01
% OF TOTAL
PLUGS
3.66%
3.66%
14.64%
7.32%
3.66%
14.64%
3.66%
3.66%
3.66%
3.66%
3.66%
7.32%
7.32%
7.32%
3.66%
4.82%
3.66%
3.66%
100.00%
55 Some species are not appropriate for inclusion into a seed mix, however they may be very desirable to have as part of the permanent plant matrix because of their ecological, habitat, and/or
40.2 aesthetic value. The plug species listed above are appropriate for supplementing this seed mix. Following are the common reasons for not including these species within the seed mix: 15.4 Does not germinate well from seed in the field, 2-Seed is very expensive, 3-Low number of seeds per ounce, 4-Requires specialized microclimate, 5-Seed is not commercially available or is
3.3 only available in small quantaties
Notes:
www.ecologyllc.com
4.1 - Park Entrance Native Landscape Plug Plantings
4.1 - Park Entrance Native Landscape Woody Plantings
Trees - Canopy
Edge/Accent Plantings
ACRONYM
ALLCER
ANDSCO
ANECAN
ASACAN
ASCTUB
CORPAL
CXJAME
DODMEA
HEURIC
LIAASP
LIAPYC
PENDIG
PHLPIP
TRAOHI
ZIZAUR
SCIENTIFIC NAME
Allium cernuum
Andropogon scoparius
Anemone canadensis
Asarum canadense
Asclepias tuberosa
Coreopsis palmata
Carex jamesii
Dodecatheon meadia
Liatris aspera
Penstemon digitalis
Phlox pilosa
Zizia aurea
COMMON NAME
NODDING WILD ONION
MEADOW ANEMONE
WILD GINGER
BUTTERFLY WEED
PRAIRIE COREOPSIS
GRASS SEDGE
SHOOTING STAR
PRAIRIE ALUMROOT
ROUGH BLAZING STAR
PRAIRIE BLAZING STAR
SAND PRAIRIE PHLOX
COMMON SPIDERWORT
GOLDEN ALEXANDERS
C-Value
W-Value
WETNESS
7
5
4
7
7
6
5
6
8
5
6
4
7
2
7
1
4
-3
5
5
5
5
3
1
5
0
1
1
2
-1
[FAC-]
FACUFACW
UPL
UPL
UPL
UPL
FACU
FAC[UPL]
FAC
FACFACFACU+
FAC+
C-Value
W-Value
WETNESS
9
8
8
9
10
8
3
9
4
5
4
8
7
8
9
4
7
5
9
4
8
7
5
5
5
5
-5
5
5
-1
5
5
3
5
1
-3
2
4
5
4
5
-3
5
0
UPL
UPL
UPL
UPL
OBL
UPL
UPL
FAC+
[UPL]
UPL
FACU
UPL
FAC[FACW]
FACU+
FACUUPL
FACUUPL
FACW
UPL
FAC
C-Value
W-Value
WETNESS
5
5
5
5
-1
5
3
2
FAC+
UPL
FACU
FACU+
Mid-Level Plantings
ACRONYM
AMOCAN
BAPLEA
BOUCUR
DALPUR
DESCAP
ECHPAL
ECHPUR
ERYYUC
GERMAC
HELHEL
MONFIS
PARINT
PHLPIP
RUDSPS
RUDSUB
SOLRIG
SOLSPE
SYMERI
SYMLAE
SYMNOV
SYMOOL
VERVIR
SCIENTIFIC NAME
Amorpha canescens
Baptisia leucantha
Dalea purpurea
Deschampsia caespitosa
Echinacea pallida
Echinacea purpurea
Geranium maculatum
Heliopsis helianthoides
Monarda fistulosa
Phlox pilosa
Rudbeckia speciosa sullivantii
Solidago rigida
Solidago speciosa
Symphyotrichum ericoides
COMMON NAME
LEAD PLANT
WHITE WILD INDIGO
SIDEOATS GRAMA
PURPLE PRAIRIE CLOVER
TUFTED HAIR GRASS
PALE PURPLE CONEFLOWER
PURPLE CONEFLOWER
RATTLESNAKE MASTER
WILD GERANIUM
FALSE SUNFLOWER
WILD BERGAMOT
WILD QUININE
SAND PRAIRIE PHLOX
SHOWY BLACK-EYED SUSAN
STIFF GOLDENROD
SHOWY GOLDENROD
HEATH ASTER
SMOOTH BLUE ASTER
NEW ENGLAND ASTER
SKY-BLUE ASTER
CULVER'S ROOT
Limited Plantings
ACRONYM
PANVIR
SILINT
SILTER
SORNUT
SCIENTIFIC NAME
Panicum virgatum
Silphium integrifolium
Silphium terebinthinaceum
Sorghastrum nutans
COMMON NAME
SWITCH GRASS
ROSIN WEED
PRAIRIE DOCK
INDIAN GRASS
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HEIGHT
Min-Max (Typical)
1-2' (1.5')
2-3' (3')
1-2' (1.5')
to 8"
2'(2-3')
2-3' (3')
1-2' (1.5')
1-2' (1.5')
2'(1-3')
2.5-5' (3.5')
1-3' (2')
2.5-5' (3.5')
6"-2' (1.5')
2-3' (3')
1-3' (2')
HEIGHT
Min-Max (Typical)
1-3' (3')
1-3' (1')
2-3' (3')
2'(1-3')
1.5-3' (2')
2-4' (3')
2-5' (4')
2-4' (3')
1-3' (2')
2-5' (4')
2-5' (4')
2-4' (3')
6-24"(18")
2-4' (3')
1-5'(4')
1-5'(4')
3-6' (5')
2-5' (3')
1-3' (3')
1.5-3' (2')
2-5' (3')
2-5' (4')
HEIGHT
Min-Max (Typical)
3-5' (4')
2-6'(5')
3-10'(9')
3-6'(5')
BLOOM
BLOOM TIME
A M J J A S O
COLOR
Pink
N/A
White
Red
Orange
Yellow
N/A
White
Green-White
Purple
Purple
White
Pink
Purple
Yellow
BLOOM
COLOR
Violet
White
N/A
Purple
N/A
Pink
Purple
White
Purple
Yellow
Pink
White
Violet
Yellow
Yellow
Yellow
Yellow
White
Blue
Purple
Blue
White
BLOOM TIME
A M J J A S O
BLOOM
COLOR
N/A
Yellow
Yellow
Green-Tan
BLOOM TIME
A M J J A S O
Notes:
1.) ecology recommends installing a Mycorrhizal Inocculant with the above seed miz at 40 lbs/acre
2.) Prepare soil seedbed the same as for traditional turf seeding
3.) Apply starter fertilizer the same as for traditional turf seeding
4.) Because of the seeding timeframe, temporary irrigation should be provided until establishment
5.)**At no time should Annual nor Perennial Rye (Lolium multiflorum or perenne) be utilized as a cover crop**
FALL
COLOR
N/A
Purple-Bronze
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
Green-Tan
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
FALL
COLOR
N/A
N/A
Tan
N/A
Green-Tan
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
FALL
COLOR
Tan
N/A
N/A
Tan
RECOMMENDED
X
X
X
X
X
X
SCIENTIFIC NAME
Acer saccharum
Acer saccharum 'Green Mountain'
Aesculus glabra
Carpinus caroliniana virginiana
Carya cordiformis
Carya ovata
Celtis occidentalis
Gleditsia triacanthos
Gymnocladus dioicus
Juglans nigra
Platanus occidentalis
Quercus alba
Quercus imbricaria
Quercus macrocarpa
Quercus muhlenbergii
Quercus rubra
Quercus palustris
Quercus velutina
Tilia americana
COMMON NAME
SUGAR MAPLE
GREEN MOUNTAIN SUGAR MAPLE
OHIO BUCKEYE
BLUE BEECH
BITTERNUT HICKORY
SHAGBARK HICKORY
HACKBERRY
HONEY LOCUST
KENTUCKY COFFEE TREE
BLACK WALNUT
SYCAMORE
WHITE OAK
SHINGLE OAK
BUR OAK
CHINQUAPIN OAK
RED OAK
PIN OAK
BLACK OAK
AMERICAN LINDEN
C-Value
W-Value
WETNESS
3
3
3
8
7
5
3
2
8
5
9
5
7
5
8
7
8
6
5
3
3
3
0
3
3
1
0
5
3
-3
0
1
1
5
3
-3
5
3
FACU
FACU
FACU
FAC
FACU
FACU
FACFAC
UPL
FACU
FACW
FAC
FACFACUPL
FACU
FACW
UPL
FACU
C-Value
W-Value
WETNESS
8
8
10
10
9
2
2
2
3
3
5
5
1
3
5
3
3
1
0
0
3
5
5
4
5
5
FACU
UPL
FACU
FACU
[FAC-]
FAC
FAC
FACU
UPL
UPL
FACUUPL
UPL
C-Value
W-Value
WETNESS
9
6
6
6
6
6
5
5
6
6
9
8
10
10
7
8
10
10
1
5
5
7
10
5
5
5
-4
-2
-2
-2
5
-5
4
-4
-3
5
3
4
4
-2
-2
5
5
5
3
4
-4
5
-1
3
UPL
FACW+
FACWFACWFACWUPL
OBL
FACUFACW+
FACW
UPL
FACU
FACUFACUFACWFACWUPL
UPL
UPL
FACU
FACUFACW+
UPL
FAC+
FACU
Trees - Ornamental
RECOMMENDED
X
X
X
X
X
X
ACRONYM
AMEARB
AMELAE
CERCAN
CERCAF
CORALT
CRACRU
CRACRI
JUNVIC
MALIOE
MALIOP
OSTVIR
PRUAME
RHUTYP
SCIENTIFIC NAME
Amelanchier arborea
Amelanchier laevis
Cercis canadensis
Cercis canadensis 'Forest Pansy'
Cornus alternifolia
Crataegus crus-galli
Crataegus crus-galli var. inermis
Juniperus virginiana crebra
Malus ioensis ' Bechtel's Improved'
Malus ioensis 'Prairie Rose'
Ostrya virginiana
Prunus americana
Rhus typhina
COMMON NAME
SERVICEBERRY
ALLEGHENY SHADBLOW
EASTERN REDBUD
FOREST PANSY EASTERN REDBUD
PAGODA DOGWOOD
COCKSPUR HAWTHORN
THORNLESS COCKSPUR HAWTHORN
RED CEDAR
BECHTEL'S IMPROVED IOWA CRAB
PRAIRIE ROSE CRABAPPLE
HOP HORNBEAM
WILD PLUM
STAGHORN SUMAC
Shrubs
RECOMMENDED
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
ACRONYM
ACESAC
ACESAG
AESGLA
CARCAV
CARCOR
CAROVT
CELOCC
GLETRI
GYMDIO
JUGNIG
PLAOCC
QUEALB
QUEIMB
QUEMAC
QUEMUH
QUERUB
QUEPAU
QUEVEL
TILAME
ACRONYM
AMOCAN
AMOFRU
PHOARB
PHOMEL
PHOPRU
CEAAME
CEPOCC
CORAME
COROBL
CORSTO
DIELON
HAMVIR
HYDARB
HYDARI
LINBEN
PHYOPU
RHUARO
RHUARG
RHUGLA
ROSBLA
ROSCAR
SPIALB
SYMALA
VIBLEN
VIBPRU
SCIENTIFIC NAME
Amorpha canescens
Amorpha fruticosa
Photinia arbutifolia
Photinia melanocarpa
Photinia prunifolia
Cephalanthus occidentalis
Corylus americana
Cornus obliqua
Cornus stolonifera
Diervilla lonicera
Hamamelis virginiana
Hydrangea arborescens
Hydrangea arborescens 'Invincible Spirit'
Lindera benzoin
Physocarpus opulifolius
Rhus aromatica
Rhus aromatica 'Gro-Low'
Rhus glabra
Rosa blanda
Rosa carolina
Spiraea alba
Symphoricarpos albus
Viburnum lentago
Viburnum prunifolium
COMMON NAME
LEAD PLANT
INDIGO BUSH
RED CHOKEBERRY
BLACK CHOKEBERRY
CHOKEBERRY
NEW JERSEY TEA
BUTTONBUSH
AMERICAN HAZELNUT
BLUE-FRUITED DOGWOOD
RED-OSIER DOGWOOD
DWARF HONEYSUCKLE
WITCH HAZEL
WILD HYDRANGEA
INVINCIBLE SPIRIT SMOOTH HYDRANGEA
SPICEBUSH
NINEBARK
FRAGRANT SUMAC
GRO-LOW FRAGRANT SUMAC
SMOOTH SUMAC
EARLY WILD ROSE
PASTURE ROSE
MEADOWSWEET
SNOWBERRY
NANNYBERRY
BLACKHAW VIBURNUM
HEIGHT
Min-Max (Typical)
60-75' (65')
60-75' (70')
35-50' (45')
25-35' (30')
40-75' (60')
60-80' (70')
40-60' (50')
50-60' (55')
60-75' (65')
50-75' (65')
75-90' (80')
50-80' (70')
30-45' (40')
70-80' (75')
35-50' (45')
60-75' (70')
50-75' (65')
50-60' (55')
60-75' (70')
HEIGHT
Min-Max (Typical)
15-25' (20')
15-25' (20')
20-30' (25')
20-30' (25')
15-25' (20')
15-25' (20')
15-30' (20')
15-30' (20')
15-25' (20')
15-30' (20')
15-30' (20')
15-25' (20'
20-35' (25')
HEIGHT
Min-Max (Typical)
1-3' (2')
6-10' (8')
6-12' (10')
3-6' (5')
6-12'(11')
1-4' (2.5')
6-12' (10')
8-15' (10')
6-12' (10')
6-12' (10')
3-6' (4')
6-12' (10')
3-6' (4')
3-5' (3.5')
6-12' (10)
6-12' (10')
2-6' (5')
2-3' (2.5')
10-15' (12')
3-6' (4')
1-3.5' (2.5')
3-6' (4')
3-6' (4')
12-36'
10-15' (12')
BLOOM
COLOR
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
BLOOM TIME
A M J J A S O
FALL
COLOR
Yellow-Orange
Yellow-Orange
Orange-Red
Orange-Red
Yellow
Yellow
Yellow
Yellow
Green
Yellow
Tan-Brown
Red
Yellow-Brown
Yellow-Brown
Yellow-Brown
Red
Red
Yellow-Brown
Yellow
BLOOM
COLOR
White
White
Purple
Purple
White
White
White
Purple
Pink
Pink
N/A
White
N/A
BLOOM TIME
A M J J A S O
FALL
COLOR
Red
Red
Yellow-Green
Yellow-Green
Purple
Red-Purple
Red-Purple
Green
Yellow
Yellow-Green
Yellow
Yellow
Orange-Red
BLOOM
COLOR
Purple
Purple
White
White
White
White
White
N/A
White
White
Yellow-Red
Yellow
White
Pink
Yellow
White
N/A
N/A
N/A
Pink
Pink
White
Pink
White
White
BLOOM TIME
A M J J A S O
FALL
COLOR
N/A
N/A
Orange-Red
Red
Red
Yellow-Tan
Yellow-Green
Red-Purple
Red
Red-Purple
Red-Orange
Brown-Tan
Yellow-Tan
Yellow-Green
Yellow
Yellow-Purple
Red-Orange
Red-Orange
Red
Yellow-Orange
Yellow-Orange
Yellow
N/A
Yellow-Purple
Red-Maroon
www.ecologyllc.com
Wooded Bluff (3.1) Tree Planting Program
www.ecologyllc.com
Upland (3.2), Floodplain (3.3), Secondary (3.4), Pine Plantation (3.5) Tree Planting Program
Canopy Species
HEIGHT
Canopy Species
HEIGHT
COVERAGE /ACRE
SCIENTIFIC NAME
COMMON NAME
C-Value
W-Value
WETNESS
Fall Color
Size
QTY
SCIENTIFIC NAME
COMMON NAME
C-Value
W-Value
WETNESS
Fall Color
Size
30.00%
20.00%
8.00%
6.00%
3.00%
Quercus macrocarpa
Quercus velutina
Quercus alba
Carya ovata
Ulmus americana
Bur Oak
Black Oak
White Oak
Shagbark Hickory
American Elm
5
6
5
5
3
1
5
0
3
-2
FACUPL
FAC
FACU
FACW-
70-80' (75')
50-80' (70')
50-80' (70')
60-80' (70')
80'
Yellow-Brown
Orange-Red
Red
Yellow
Yellow
3.00%
3.00%
3.00%
3.00%
Fraxinus americana
Tilia americana
Juglans nigra
Prunus serotina
White Ash
American Basswood
Black Walnut
Black Cherry
5
5
5
1
3
3
3
3
FACU
FACU
FACU
FACU
80'
60-75' (70')
50-75' (65')
80'
Purple-Yellow
Yellow
Yellow
Yellow-Orange
15# RPM
3# RPM
15# RPM
3# RPM
15# RPM
3# RPM
15# RPM
3# RPM
3# RPM
20.00%
15.00%
10.00%
6.00%
5.00%
3.00%
Quercus alba
Quercus rubra
Quercus macrocarpa
Carya ovata
Quercus velutina
Ulmus americana
White Oak
Red Oak
Bur Oak
Shagbark Hickory
Black Oak
American Elm
5
7
5
5
6
3
0
3
1
3
5
-2
FAC
FACU
FACFACU
UPL
FACW-
50-80' (70')
60-90'
70-80' (75')
60-80' (70')
50-80' (70')
80'
Red
Red
Yellow-Brown
Yellow
Orange-Red
Yellow
3.00%
3.00%
3.00%
3.00%
2.00%
Fraxinus americana
Tilia americana
Acer saccharum
Celtis occidentalis
Prunus serotina
White Ash
American Basswood
Sugar Maple
Hackberry
Black Cherry
5
5
3
3
1
3
3
3
1
3
FACU
FACU
FACU
FACFACU
80'
60-75' (70')
70-100'
50-90'
80'
Purple-Yellow
Yellow
Yel/Ora/Red
Yellow
Yellow-Orange
15# RPM
15# RPM
15# RPM
3# RPM
3# RPM
15# RPM
3# RPM
15# RPM
15# RPM
15# RPM
3# RPM
QTY
SCIENTIFIC NAME
COMMON NAME
C-Value
W-Value
WETNESS
6.00%
3.00%
3.00%
3.00%
3.00%
3.00%
Cercis canadensis
Crataegus mollis
Sambucus canadensis
Corylus americana
Prunus virginiana
Common Witchhazel
Eastern Redbud
Downy Hawthorn
Common Elderberry
American Hazelnut
Common Chokecherry
8
10
2
1
5
3
3
3
4
-2
4
3
FACU
FACU
FACUFACWFACU[FACU]
QTY
SCIENTIFIC NAME
COMMON NAME
C-Value
W-Value
WETNESS
6.00%
3.00%
3.00%
3.00%
3.00%
3.00%
3.00%
3.00%
Cercis canadensis
Crataegus mollis
Viburnum prunifolium
Carpinus caroliniana
Sambucus canadensis
Corylus americana
Prunus virginiana
Eastern Redbud
Downy Hawthorn
Common Witchhazel
Blackhaw Viburnum
Blue Beech
Common Elderberry
American Hazelnut
Common Chokecherry
10
2
8
5
8
1
5
3
3
4
3
3
0
-2
4
3
FACU
FACUFACU
FACU
FAC
FACWFACU[FACU]
Understory Species
Notes:
1.) Ecology recommends staggering the tree replacement program over three phases
2.) Protect newly planted trees from deer browse using deer exclosure fencing
Min-Max (Typical)
HEIGHT
Min-Max (Typical)
15-30' (20')
20-30 ft.
40 ft.
6-10' (8')
8-15' (10')
30-50' (35')
Fall Color
Size
Yellow
Yellow
Yellow-Brown
Yellow-Green
Red-Purple
Yellow-Orange
3# RPM
15# RPM
3# RPM
3# RPM
3# RPM
3# RPM
Understory Species
Min-Max (Typical)
HEIGHT
Min-Max (Typical)
20-30'
40'
15-30' (20')
20'
20-30'
6-10' (8')
8-15' (10')
30-50' (35')
Fall Color
Size
Yellow
Yellow-Brown
Yellow
Red
Orange-Red
Yellow-Green
Red-Purple
Yellow-Orange
15# RPM
3# RPM
3# RPM
3# RPM
15# RPM
3# RPM
3# RPM
3# RPM
Notes:
1.) Ecology recommends staggering the tree replacement program over three phases
2.) Protect newly planted trees from deer browse using deer exclosure fencing
Acronym
The Floristic Quality
Assessment provides a
system to assess the quality
of a natural area based
upon plant species present.
Monitoring efforts at Skare
Park were performed using
the meander method by a
highly trained ecologist,
who is an expert at plant
identification. Based on Skare
Parks overall FQI numbers
the park has a 47.67 degree
of native conservativeness
based on the 138 native species
identified on site along with
a total conservativeness of
40.84 which includes the 50
non-native species that were
also identified. Skare Park is
in the 20+ range meaning the
land has significant ecological
functions and processes worthy
of continual restoration
efforts and protection. With
a meticulous stewardship
program that eliminates the
50 non-native species and less
conservative native species,
Skare Park can improve it’s
native FQI rating.
Floristic Quality Assessment Key:
Skare Park Species Inventory
Skare Park Species Inventory
Acronym
Scientific Name
Common Name
C (Chi05)
WChi05
Wetness
Nativity
Type
ACENEG
Acer negundo
Box elder
0
‐2
FACW‐
Native
Tree
ACEPLA
ACESAC
Acer platanoides
Acer saccharum
Norway maple
Sugar maple
0
3
5
3
UPL
FACU
Non‐native
Native
Tree
Tree
Total Species 188
Native Species 138
ACHMIL
AESGLA
Achillea millefolium
Aesculus glabra
Yarrow
Ohio buckeye
0
3
3
3
FACU
FACU
Non‐native
Native
Forb
Tree
Total Mean C 2.98
Native Mean C 4.06
AGEALA
AGRGRY
Ageratina altissima var. altissima
Agrimonia gryposepala
White snakeroot
Tall agrimony
4
2
5
2
UPL
FACU+
Native
Native
Forb
Forb
AGRGIG
ALLPET
Agrostis gigantea
Alliaria petiolata
Redtop
Garlic mustard
0
0
‐3
0
FACW
FAC
Non‐native
Non‐native
Grass
Forb
ALLTRT
Allium tricoccum
Wild leek
7
3
FACU
Native
Forb
ALNGLU
Alnus glutinosa
European alder
0
‐2
FACW‐
Non‐native
Tree
AMBART
AMBTRI
ANDGER
ANECYL
ANEQUI
ANEVIR
ANTPLA
APOCAN
Ambrosia artemisiifolia
Ambrosia trifida
Andropogon gerardii
Anemone cylindrica
Anemone quinquefolia
Anemone virginiana
Antennaria plantaginifolia
Apocynum cannabinum
Common ragweed
Giant ragweed
Big bluestem grass
Thimbleweed
Wood anemone
Tall anemone
Pussy toes
Indian hemp
0
0
5
6
7
5
3
4
3
‐1
1
5
5
5
5
0
FACU
FAC+
FAC‐
UPL
[UPL]
UPL
UPL
FAC
Native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Forb
Forb
Grass
Forb
Forb
Forb
Forb
Forb
ARCMIN
ARITRI
Arctium minus
Arisaema triphyllum
Common burdock
Jack‐in‐the‐pulpit
0
4
5
‐2
UPL
FACW‐
Non‐native
Native
Forb
Forb
ASCINC
ASCSYR
ASPOFF
BAPALB
BERTHU
Asclepias incarnata
Asclepias syriaca
Asparagus officinalis
Baptisia alba
Berberis thunbergii
Swamp milkweed
Common milkweed
Asparagus
White wild indigo
Japanese barberry
4
0
0
8
0
‐5
5
3
2
4
OBL
UPL
FACU
FACU+
FACU‐
Native
Native
Non‐native
Native
Non‐native
Forb
Forb
Forb
Forb
Shrub
BIDFRO
BOECYC
BRANIG
BRARAP
BROINE
CAMAME
CXCRIS
CXJAME
CXNORM
CXPENS
CXSTRI
CXTENE
CXTRIC
CXVULP
CAROVT
CATSPE
CELOCC
CERPUM
CERCAN
CHEALB
CICMAC
CIRARV
CIRDIS
CLAVIR
COMCOM
CONARV
CONCAN
CORTRP
COROBL
CORRAC
CRACRU
CRAMOL
DACGLO
DAUCAR
DIAARM
DUCIND
ECHPAL
ECHPUR
ECHLOB
ELAUMB
ELYVIL
EQUARV
ERIANS
ERYYUC
EUPPER
EUTMAC
EUTPUR
FAGGRA
FRAVIR
FRAPES
GALAPA
GALTRF
GERMAC
GEUCAN
GEULAL
GLEHED
HACVIR
HELGRO
HESMAT
HYPPER
IMPCAP
IRIVIS
JUGNIG
JUNCAN
JUNDUD
JUNTOR
LACSER
Bidens frondosa
Boehmeria cylindrica
Brassica nigra
Brassica rapa
Bromus inermis
Campanula americana
Carex cristatella
Carex jamesii
Carex normalis
Carex pensylvanica
Carex stricta
Carex tenera
Carex trichocarpa
Carex vulpinoidea
Carya ovata
Catalpa speciosa
Celtis occidentalis
Cerastium pumilum
Cercis canadensis
Chenopodium album
Cicuta maculata
Cirsium arvense
Cirsium discolor
Claytonia virginica
Commelina communis
Convolvulus arvensis
Conyza canadensis
Coreopsis tripteris
Cornus obliqua
Cornus racemosa
Crataegus crus‐galli
Crataegus mollis
Dactylis glomerata
Daucus carota
Dianthus armeria
Duchesnea indica
Echinacea pallida
Echinacea purpurea
Echinocystis lobata
Elaeagnus umbellata
Elymus villosus
Equisetum arvense
Erigeron annuus
Eutrochium purpureum
Fagus grandifolia
Fragaria virginiana
Fraxinus pennsylvanica
Galium aparine
Galium triflorum
Geranium maculatum
Geum canadense
Geum laciniatum
Glechoma hederacea
Hackelia virginiana
Helianthus grosseserratus
Hesperis matronalis
Hypericum perforatum
Impatiens capensis
Iris virginica var. shrevei
Juglans nigra
Juncus canadensis
Juncus dudleyi
Juncus torreyi
Lactuca serriola
Common beggar's ticks
False nettle
Black mustard
Turnip
Hungarian brome
Tall bellflower
Crested oval sedge
Grass sedge
Spreading oval sedge
Pennsylvania sedge
Common tussock sedge
Narrow‐leaved oval sedge
Hairy‐fruited lake sedge
Brown fox sedge
Shagbark hickory
Hardy catalpa
Hackberry
Curtis's mouse‐ear chickweed
Eastern redbud
Lamb's quarters
Water hemlock
Field thistle
Pasture thistle
Spring beauty
Common day flower
Field bindweed
Horseweed
Tall coreopsis
Blue‐fruited dogwood
Gray dogwood
Cockspur hawthorn
Downy hawthorn
Orchard grass
Queen Anne's lace
Deptford pink
Indian strawberry
Pale purple coneflower
Broad‐leaved purple coneflower
Wild cucumber
Autumn olive
Silky wild rye
Horsetail
Annual fleabane
Rattlesnake master
Common boneset
Spotted Joe Pye weed
Purple Joe Pye weed
Beech
Wild strawberry
Green ash
Annual bedstraw
Sweet‐scented bedstraw
Wild geranium
Wood avens
Northern rough avens
Creeping charlie
Stickseed
Sawtooth sunflower
Dame's rocket
Common St. John's wort
Orange jewelweed
Blue flag iris
Black walnut
Canadian rush
Dudley's rush
Torrey's rush
Prickly lettuce
1
2
0
0
0
3
4
5
5
5
5
8
7
2
5
0
3
0
10
0
6
0
2
2
0
0
0
5
6
1
2
2
0
0
0
0
8
3
5
0
5
0
0
9
4
4
7
5
1
1
1
5
4
1
5
0
0
2
0
0
3
5
5
7
4
4
0
‐3
‐5
5
5
5
0
‐4
5
0
5
‐5
1
‐5
‐5
3
3
1
5
3
1
‐5
5
5
3
0
5
FACW
OBL
UPL
UPL
UPL
FAC
FACW+
UPL
[FAC]
UPL
OBL
[FAC‐]
OBL
OBL
FACU
FACU
FAC‐
UPL
FACU
FAC‐
OBL
UPL
UPL
FACU
FAC
UPL
FAC‐
FAC
FACW+
FACW‐
FAC
FACU‐
FACU
UPL
UPL
FACU‐
UPL
UPL
FACW‐
UPL
FACU
FAC
FAC‐
FAC+
FACW+
OBL
UPL
FACU
FAC‐
FAC
FACU
FACU+
[UPL]
FAC
FACW
FACU
FAC‐
FACW‐
UPL
UPL
FACW
OBL
FACU
OBL
[FAC]
FACW
FAC
Native
Native
Non‐native
Non‐native
Non‐native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Non‐native
Native
Non‐native
Native
Non‐native
Native
Non‐native
Native
Native
Non‐native
Non‐native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Non‐native
Non‐native
Non‐native
Non‐native
Native
Native
Native
Non‐native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Non‐native
Native
Native
Non‐native
Non‐native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Non‐native
Forb
Forb
Forb
Forb
Grass
Forb
Sedge
Sedge
Sedge
Sedge
Sedge
Sedge
Sedge
Sedge
Tree
Tree
Tree
Forb
Shrub
Forb
Forb
Forb
Forb
Forb
Forb
Forb
Forb
Forb
Shrub
Shrub
Shrub
Tree
Grass
Forb
Forb
Forb
Forb
Forb
Vine
Shrub
Grass
Cryptogam
Forb
Forb
Forb
Forb
Forb
Tree
Forb
Tree
Forb
Forb
Forb
Forb
Forb
Forb
Forb
Forb
Forb
Forb
Forb
Forb
Tree
Rush
Rush
Rush
Forb
1
0
‐4
‐2
0
4
3
5
5
4
5
5
‐2
5
3
0
1
‐1
‐4
‐5
5
3
1
0
3
2
5
0
‐3
3
1
‐2
5
5
‐3
‐5
3
‐5
0
‐3
0
Total FQI 40.84
Native FQI 47.67
Total Mean Wetness 1.11
Wetness Category Fac (‐)
Native Species 138
Forbs
Trees
Shrubs
Sedges
Grasses
Rushes
Vines
Cryptogams
79
21
12
8
7
5
4
2
Non‐native Species 50
Forbs
Grasses
Trees
Shrubs
Vines
33
8
5
3
1
LEEVIR
LEOCAR
LOTCOR
LYCAME
LYSQUR
MEDLUP
MELALB
MELLOF
MENARV
MONFIS
MORALB
OENBIE
OSMLON
OSMCLI
OXASTR
PACPAU
PANVIR
PARINT
PARQUI
PASSAT
PENDIG
PERVIR
PHAARU
PHLPRA
PHRAUU
PHYAME
PINSTR
PLAMAJ
PLAOCC
POAPRA
PODPEL
POLREP
POLPER
POPDEL
POTNOR
POTREC
PRUSER
PRUVIR
PTETRT
QUEALB
QUEMAC
QUEPAU
QUERUB
QUEVEL
RATPIN
RHUGLA
RIBMIS
ROBPSE
ROSMUL
RUBALL
RUBOCC
RUDHIR
RUDLAC
RUMCRI
SALINT
SALNIG
SANCAD
SCHSCO
SCIATR
SCIPEN
SCRMAR
SCULAT
SETFAB
SILLAC
SILPER
SILTER
SOLDUL
SOLALT
SOLRIG
SORNUT
SPAPEC
STAPAH
SYMNOV
SYMPIL
TAROFF
TEUCAN
THADIO
TILAME
TOXRAD
TRAOHI
TRIPRA
TRIREP
TRIREC
TRIAUA
ULMRUB
VERTHA
VERHAS
VERSTR
VERURU
VIBTRI
VIOPUB
VIOSOR
VITRIP
XANSTR
ZIZAUR
Scientific Name
Common Name
Leersia virginica
Leonurus cardiaca
Lotus corniculatus
Lycopus americanus
Lysimachia quadriflora
Medicago lupulina
Melilotus albus
Melilotus officinalis
Mentha arvensis fo. villosa
Monarda fistulosa
Morus alba
Oenothera biennis
Osmorhiza longistylis
Osmunda claytoniana
Oxalis stricta
Packera paupercula
Panicum virgatum
Parthenocissus quinquefolia
Pastinaca sativa
Penstemon digitalis
Persicaria virginiana
Phalaris arundinaceae
Phleum pratense
Phragmites australis subsp. australis
Phytolacca americana
Pinus strobus
Plantago major
Platanus occidentalis
Poa pratensis
Podophyllum peltatum
Polemonium reptans
Polygonum persicaria
Populus deltoides
Potentilla norvegica
Potentilla recta
Prunus serotina
Prunus virginiana
Ptelea trifoliata
Quercus alba
Quercus macrocarpa
Quercus palustris
Quercus rubra
Quercus velutina
Ratibida pinnata
Rhus glabra
Ribes missouriense
Robinia pseudoacacia
Rosa multiflora
Rubus allegheniensis
Rubus occidentalis
Rudbeckia hirta
Rudbeckia laciniata
Rumex crispus
Salix interior
Salix nigra
Sanguinaria canadensis
Scirpus atrovirens
Scirpus pendulus
Scrophularia marilandica
Scutellaria lateriflora
Setaria faberi
Silphium laciniatum
Silphium terebinthinaceum
Solanum dulcamara
Solidago altissima
Solidago rigida
Sorghastrum nutans
Spartina pectinata
Stachys palustris subsp. homotricha
Symphyotrichum novae‐angliae
Symphyotrichum pilosum
Taraxacum officinale
Teucrium canadense
Thalictrum dioicum
Tilia americana
Toxicodendron radicans
Trifolium pratense
Trifolium repens
Trillium recurvatum
Triosteum aurantiacum
Ulmus rubra
Verbascum thapsus
Verbena hastata
Verbena stricta
Verbena urticifolia
Viburnum trilobum
Viola pubescens
Viola sororia
Vitis riparia
Xanthium strumarium
Zizia aurea
White grass
Motherwort
Bird's foot trefoil
Common water horehound
Narrow‐leaved loosestrife
Black medick
White sweet clover
Yellow sweet clover
Wild mint
Wild bergamot
White mulberry
Common evening primrose
Smooth sweet cicely
Interrupted fern
Common wood sorrel
Balsam ragwort
Switch grass
Wild quinine
Virginia creeper
Wild parsnip
Foxglove beardtongue
Woodland knotweed
Reed canarygrass
Timothy
Common reed
Pokeweed
White pine
Common plantain
Sycamore
Kentucky blue grass
May apple
Jacob's ladder
Lady's thumb
Eastern cottonwood
Norway cinquefoil
Upright cinquefoil
Wild black cherry
Choke cherry
Wafer ash
White oak
Bur oak
Pin oak
Red oak
Black oak
Yellow coneflower
Smooth sumac
Wild gooseberry
Black locust
Multiflora rose
Common blackberry
Black raspberry
Black‐eyed Susan
Wild golden glow
Curly dock
Sandbar willow
Black willow
Bloodroot
Little bluestem grass
Dark green rush
Red bulrush
Late figwort
Mad‐dog skullcap
Giant foxtail
Compass plant
Cup plant
Prairie dock
Bittersweet nightshade
Tall goldenrod
Stiff goldenrod
Indian grass
Prairie cord grass
Woundwort
New England aster
Hairy aster
Common dandelion
Germander
Early meadow rue
American linden
Poison ivy
Common spiderwort
Red clover
White clover
Red trillium
Early horse gentian
Slippery elm
Common mullein
Blue vervain
Hoary vervain
Hairy white vervain
Highbush cranberry
Yellow violet
Common blue violet
Riverbank grape
Cocklebur
Golden Alexanders
C (Chi05)
WChi05
7
0
0
5
9
0
0
0
5
4
0
0
3
9
0
6
5
8
2
0
4
2
0
0
0
1
9
0
9
0
4
5
0
2
0
0
1
3
7
5
5
8
7
6
4
1
5
0
0
3
2
1
5
0
1
4
6
5
4
4
4
5
0
5
5
5
0
1
4
5
4
5
4
0
0
3
7
5
2
2
0
0
5
5
‐3
5
1
‐5
‐5
1
3
3
‐5
3
0
3
4
‐1
5
‐1
‐1
5
1
5
1
0
‐4
3
‐4
1
3
‐1
‐3
1
3
0
1
‐1
0
5
3
3
2
0
1
‐3
3
5
5
5
5
4
3
2
5
3
‐4
‐1
‐5
‐5
4
4
‐5
‐5
4
‐5
2
5
‐2
3
0
3
4
2
‐4
‐5
‐3
2
3
‐3
2
3
‐1
2
5
2
4
5
0
5
‐4
5
5
‐3
4
1
‐2
0
4
0
4
4
5
10
5
3
2
0
7
‐1
Wetness
Nativity
Type
FACW
UPL
FAC‐
OBL
OBL
FAC‐
FACU
FACU
[OBL]
FACU
FAC
FACU
FACU‐
FAC+
UPL
FAC+
FAC+
UPL
FAC‐
UPL
FAC‐
FAC
FACW+
FACU
FACW+
FAC‐
FACU
FAC+
FACW
FAC‐
FACU
FAC
[FAC‐]
FAC+
FAC
UPL
FACU
[FACU]
FACU+
FAC
FAC‐
FACW
FACU
UPL
UPL
UPL
UPL
FACU‐
FACU
FACU+
UPL
FACU
FACW+
FAC+
OBL
OBL
FACU‐
FACU‐
OBL
OBL
FACU‐
OBL
FACU+
UPL
FACW‐
FACU
FAC
FACU
FACU‐
FACU+
FACW+
OBL
FACW
FACU+
FACU
FACW
FACU+
FACU
FAC+
FACU+
UPL
FACU
FACU‐
UPL
FAC
UPL
FACW+
UPL
UPL
FACW
FACU‐
FAC‐
FACW‐
FAC
FAC+
Native
Non‐native
Non‐native
Native
Native
Non‐native
Non‐native
Non‐native
Native
Native
Non‐native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Non‐native
Native
Native
Non‐native
Non‐native
Non‐native
Native
Native
Non‐native
Native
Non‐native
Native
Native
Non‐native
Native
Native
Non‐native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Non‐native
Non‐native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Non‐native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Non‐native
Native
Native
Native
Non‐native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Non‐native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Non‐native
Non‐native
Native
Native
Native
Non‐native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Native
Non‐native
Native
Grass
Forb
Forb
Forb
Forb
Forb
Forb
Forb
Forb
Forb
Tree
Forb
Forb
Cryptogam
Forb
Forb
Grass
Forb
Vine
Forb
Forb
Forb
Grass
Grass
Grass
Forb
Tree
Forb
Tree
Grass
Forb
Forb
Forb
Tree
Forb
Forb
Tree
Shrub
Shrub
Tree
Tree
Tree
Tree
Tree
Forb
Shrub
Shrub
Tree
Shrub
Shrub
Shrub
Forb
Forb
Forb
Shrub
Tree
Forb
Grass
Rush
Rush
Forb
Forb
Grass
Forb
Forb
Forb
Vine
Forb
Forb
Grass
Grass
Forb
Forb
Forb
Forb
Forb
Forb
Tree
Vine
Forb
Forb
Forb
Forb
Forb
Tree
Forb
Forb
Forb
Forb
Shrub
Forb
Forb
Vine
Forb
Forb
Total FQI vs. Native FQI: The Total FQI refers to the
degree of conservativeness of all the species found
on site including the non-natives. The Native FQI is
the degree of conservativeness of the native species
identified on site.
C (Chi05): Fourth column grades the species based
on it’s tolerance to disturbance. The higher the
number the less tolerant it is of disturbance, giving
the species a high-quality grade. Conversely, the
more tolerant the species is of disturbance the lower
the number, making it a low-quality species.
A value of 0 means the species is a non-native or an
extremely aggressive native.
W (Chi05): Fifth column grades the species based
upon the moisture it requires to proliferate. The
lower the number (i.e. -5), the more moisture it
requires to thrive, making it an obligate plant. The
drier the site, the higher the number (i.e. 5). The
actual scale ranges from 5 to -5.
Wetness: Sixth column indicates each plant species
preference for occurrence in a wetland or upland
OBL = Obligate Wetland: Almost always is a
hydrophyte, rarely in uplands.
FACW = Facultative Wetland: Usually is a hydrophyte
but occasionally found upland.
FAC = Facultative: Commonly occurs as either a
hydrophyte or non-hydrophyte.
FACU = Facultative Upland: Occasionally is a
hydrophyte but usually occurs in uplands.
UPL = Obligate Upland: Rarely is a hydrophyte,
almost always in uplands.
A Look at the FQI Number:
0-10 The land and flora are severely altered and has
lost much if not all natural features and worthiness of
restoration. It will require significant time and effort
to implement.
10-15 The land and flora are altered yet still retains
natural features worthy of restoration. Time and
effort will still be required.
15-20 The land and flora have been altered but still
posses many of their original ecological functions.
Regarded as a worthy candidate for restoration
which should respond positively.
20+ This land still has significant ecological functions
and processes therefore is worthy of restoration
efforts and legal protection.
Appendix B - Species Inventory: Floristic Quality Assessment
Public Sources:
Private Sources:
IL EPA 319 Grant – Non-point source pollution control/Section 319 available to implement corrective or
preventative projects or develop public education programs about non-point source pollution.
www.epa.state.il.us/local-governement/assistance.html
Alliant Energy Foundation – The Alliant Energy Foundation was formed in order to help improve the quality of
life, now and in the future, in the communities where Alliant Energy has a presence: Iowa, Illinois, Minnesota and
Wisconsin. The Foundation’s programs reflect a commitment to play an active role in those areas and give back
to future generations. Areas of interest include Human needs, Education, Culture & Art, Civic involvement, the
Environment.
Cooperative Endangered Species Conservation Fund (Section 6) Grants to States and Territories – provides
funding for species and habitat conservation actions on non-Federal lands.
http://www.fws.gov/endangered/grants/section6/FY2010/Grant_Announcement.pdf
The North American Wetlands Conservation Act – Provides matching grants to organizations and individuals
who have developed partnerships to carry out wetlands conservation projects in the Unites States, Canada, and
Mexico for the benefit of wetlands-associated migratory birds and other wildlife.
www.fws.gov/birdhabitat/Grants/NAWCA/index.shtm
Special Wildlife Funds Grant Program – The Office of Resource Conservation’s Division of Wildlife Resources
administers four special grant programs that are funded by Illinois sportsmen through the purchase of Habitat
Stamps and Migratory Waterfowl Stamps. These programs are designed to protect, acquire, enhance or manage
wildlife habitat and to support limited research and educational programs to further advance this mission.
http://dnr.state.il.us/grants/Special_Funds/WildGrant.htm
Forestry Assistance Programs- The Illinois Department of Natural Resources Forestry Assistance programs
consist of the Urban and Community Forestry grant and Forestry Development Act(FDA). These programs were
developed to maintain and improve the state’s rural and urban forests, sustaining Illinois’ natural resources and
economy.
http://dnr.state.il.us/conservation/forestry/programs.htm
Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) – A voluntary conservation program by the Natural Resources
Conservation Service, provides financial assistance to individuals/entities to address soil, water, plant, air, animal
and other related natural resource concerns on lands. Through EQIP, the NRCS provides assistance to agricultural
producers in a manner that addresses environmental benefits.
http://nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/main/national/programs/financial/eqip.
Partners for Conservation (formerly Conservation 2000) – A comprehensive long-term approach to protecting
and managing Illinois’ natural resources. The Partners for Conservation program funds programs at IDNR, Illinois
Department of Agriculture, and Illinois Environmental Protection Agency.
http://dnr.state.il.us/orep/pfc/
Ameren – Each year, the Ameren Corporation Charitable Trust donates millions of dollars to programs in
education, services for the youth and elderly, and the environment. In the company’s Missouri and Illinois service
areas.
Irwin Andrew Porter Foundation – The Foundation provides funding for a variety of interest areas. The quality,
innovation, thoughtfulness and effectiveness of a project are of more importance than the specifiec interest
area. That said, areas of interest for IAP are the arts, education, environment and social programs. IAP limits its
consideration to projects within Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota, Illinois, and Michigan.
Jewel-Osco’s Charitable Giving – Support for not-for-profit (501c3) organizations that help create healthy, thriving
communities. Jewel Osco gives grants to organizations that meet the following focus areas: Hunger Relief,
Nutritional Education, Environmental Stewardship.
Lumpkin Foundation – The Lumpkin Family Foundation, created in 1953, is a private foundation that provides
grants to meritorious nonprofit organizations for the betterment of the community, the nation and the world. We
are dedicated to supporting education, preserving and protecting the environment, and fostering opportunities
for leadership, with special consideration to our heritage in Central Illinois.
Miscellaneous Sources:
Following is a website that lists various Public and Private funding sources for Restoration Projects.
www.nps.gov/plants/restore/funding.htm
Upper Mississippi River Grant Writers Partnership- Vast network of listed grants around the mississippi watershed
area
www.riveraction.org/umrg/
The following is a list of
Public and Private funding
sources that may apply to
the environmental work
that ecology + vision, llc is
proposing throughout this plan
and may be beneficial for the
Flagg-Rochelle Park District
to investigate further. Most
funding sources will have an
application/selection process
and most Public sources will
require a funding “match” of a
specific percentage.
Open Space Lands Acquisition and Development Program (OSLAD) - State financed grant program that provides
funding assisstance to local government agencies for acquisition and/or development of public parks and open
space.
Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) - A similar program to OSLAD, both are managed by the Illinois
Department of Natural Resources.
http://dnr.state.il.us/ocd/newoslad1.htm
Miscellaneous Sources:
For an even greater list of public grant sources.
www.grants.gov
Appendix C - Potential Funding Sources
Volunteer Recommendations:
The following activities require
supervision by a person with
safety skills and some plant
identification skills to reduce
the risk of injury to both the
volunteers and the project site.
We recommend some consulting
for all skill levels. We do not
recommend any burn activities
except for smoke monitoring
and/or viewing the burn to be
performed by volunteers.
Activities Requiring Low Skill Levels:
Activities Requiring High Skill Levels:
1.
Anytime:
o work with higher skilled consultant/staff/volunteer for brush clearing and sapling
thinning (with pruners, shears, loppers or hand saws)
o remove garbage
o educate staff /community of the benefits of natural areas
o take classes/training to become more informed and better able to conduct tasks
(can be herbicide training, plant identification classes, safety training, etc.)
2.
Anytime during growing season:
o hand pulling or cutting any non-native/invasive plant that can be identified
o dead-head spent flowers from native plants within Formal Landscape areas
o install new mulch within Formal Landscape areas
o collect flowers/seed of non-native/invasive plants and dispose
o watering, if needed
o install bird houses
o maintain trails
1.
Anytime:
o brush clearing and sapling thinning
(with chain saw, only with appropriate safety training, oversight & equipment)
o herbicide cut stumps (only with appropriate license, oversight, training, and equipment)
o remove garbage
o educate staff/ community of the benefits of natural areas
o take classes/training to become more informed and better able to conduct tasks
(can be herbicide training, plant identification classes, safety training, etc.)
o train lower-skilled staff/ volunteers
3.
Spring or Fall:
o sow collected seed into needed areas
(may require higher skilled assistance in identifying seeding areas)
o plant live plugs (may require higher skilled assistance in identifying seeding areas)
o plant trees/shrubs
(may require higher skilled assistance in identifying seeding areas)
2.
Anytime during growing season:
o hand pulling or cutting any non-native/invasive plant that can be identified
o dead-head spent flowers from native plants within Formal Landscape areas
o collect flowers/seed of non-native/invasive plants and dispose
o build and install bird houses or other wildlife habitat
o maintain trails
o pruning of trees and shrubs
o conduct natural areas flora and fauna monitoring, including floristic quality
assessments, and prepare annual reports (requires a high level of plant and/or
animal/insect identification skills)
4.
Fall:
o collect, process and store seed from any native plants that can be identified
(many Carex species require collection in May/June)
3.
Spring or Fall:
o sow collected seed into needed areas
o plant live plugs
o plant trees/shrubs
4.
Fall:
o collect, process and store seed from any native plants that can be identified
(many Carex species require collection in May/June)
Figure 118. A volunteer with an Illinios herbicide license paints
herbicide on recently cut stumps of invasive scrub brush.
Figure 119. Volunteers help remove understory brush from an
open woodland using hand saws and power tools.
Figure 120. Two volunteers use power augers to drill holes where
live plugs will be planted.
Appendix D - Recommended Activities for Volunteers
Figure 121. Live plugs are planted by volunteers in a newly
engineered rain garden.
Page 261
Page 260
Chains
Township 40, north Range one East
27.50 [1,815.0 ft]
a slough 2.00 chains [132.0 ft] wide turns N.25°W.
39.80 [2,626.8 ft]
Set a post for quarter section corner from which a white oak, 24 inches diameter bears N. 21°W, 28 links [18.48 ft],
and a white oak 24 inches diameter bears S. 39°W 50 links [33.0 ft] distant.
40.00 [2,640.00 ft]
set a post and stone 13 inches long 5 inches wide and 4 inches thick for quarter section corner.
The corner to sections 17, 18, 19, 20. Land west part gently rolling rich soil. East part level, but a great part of the
whole too wet for cultivation. Timber white oak, black oak, Spanish oak and hickory. Not much undergrowth.
45.25 [2,986.5 ft]
a slough 50 links [33.0 ft] wide runs N.60°W
79.80 [5,266.38 ft]
55.00 [3,630.0 ft]
South corner of a field.
West
On a true line between sections 18 & 19
61.50 [4,059.0 ft]
A pond of 5 or 10 acres
68.00 [4,488.0 ft]
Leave pond and enter very wet ground
75.20 [4,963.2 ft]
Intersected the 3rd Principal Meridian 35 links [23.1 ft] north of the corner to set the 4 mile stone and mound and at
said intersection set a post and stone 15 inches long 15 inches long wide and 4 inches thick for corner to sections 18
& 19. Township 40 north, Range one East. Timbered land gently rolling and the prairie is also rolling east of the pond
good soil fit for cultivation. There is no bottomland to Kite river bank west side 20 feet high. Timber white and black
oak.
Chains Township 40, north Range one East of the third principal meridian.
2.18 [134.88 ft]
a white oak 20 inches diameter.
12.00 [792.0 ft]
Kite river 180 links [118.8 ft] wide runs N.80°W.
18.00 [1,188.0 ft]
Leave timber and enter prairie bears N30°W & S30°E
Page 262
N.30°W
Chains
5.05 [333.3 ft]
40.00 [2,640.0 ft]
Between sections 17 & 18 Township 40 north
Range one East of the third principal meridian
a white oak 15 inches diameter
Set a post for quarter section corner from which a white oak 10 inches diameter bears N.58°W. 93 links [61.38 ft]
and a white oak 12 inches diameter bears East 8 links [5.28 ft] distant.
48.94 [3,230.04 ft] a black oak 20 inches diameter
Page 263
diameter bears S62°W. 45 links [29.7 ft] and a white oak 15 inches diameter bears S65°E 9 links [5.94 ft] distant.
Land gently rolling black and white oak barrens thin soil not fit for cultivation.
West
On a true line between sections 7 & 18
Chains
Township 40 north Range one East of the Third principal meridian
23.06 [1,521.96 ft] a white oak 16 inches diameter
34.00 [2,244.0 ft]
Leave barrens and enter branch bottom bears N75°W & S75°E
40.00 [2,640.0 ft]
Set a post for quarter section corner from which a burr oak 24 inches diameter bears N.66°W. 178 links [117.48 ft]
and a burr oak 6 inches diameter bears S.83°E. 97 links [64.02 ft] distant.
67.50 [4,455.0 ft] a spring branch 5 links [3.3 ft] wide runs west
59.00 [3,894.0 ft]
Leave bottom and enter barrens bears NE & SW.
72.00 [4,752.0 ft] Leave slough bears E & W
70.00 [4,620.0 ft]
Leave barrens and enter slough bears NE & SW
80.00 [5,280.0 ft] Set a post for corner to sections 7, 8, 17, 18 from which a white oak 5 inches diameter bears N40°E. 1.03 links [68
ft]. A black oak 12 inches diameter bears N55°W. 18 links [11.88 ft]. A black oak 18 inches
75.00 [4,950.0 ft]
Strike the 4 mile stone in the western boundary of Township 40 north Range one
65.50 [4,323.0 ft] Enter slough bears E & W.
Page 264
East of the 3rd principal meridian. Set a post the east side of said stone for corner to sections 7 & 18 Township 40
north range one east from which a burr oak 6 inches diameter bears N.7°45’E. 170 links [112.2 ft] and a burr oak
15 inches diameter bears S27°E 241 links [159.06 ft] distant. Land gently rolling white, black and burr oak barrens.
Thin soil not fit for cultivation. There is a broad and wide slough which runs west from 10 to 15 chains [660 to 990
ft] south of the line.
East
On a random line between sections 8
Chains
& 17 Township 40 north Range one East of the third principal meridian.
7.50 [495.0 ft]
a slough 2.00 chains [132.0 ft] wide runs S.W.
40.00 [2,640.0 ft] Set a post for temporary quarter section corner
49.00 [3,234.0 ft] Leave barrens and enter slough bearing S
53.20 [3,511.2 ft] a branch 5 links [3.3 ft] wide runs south
Page 265
56.50 [3,729.0 ft]
Leave slough bears N & S
79.80 [5,266.8 ft]
60 links north of the corner to sections 8, 9, 16, & 17 from which corner
West
on a tree line between sections 8 & 7
Chains
Township 40 north range one East.
39.90 [2,633.4 ft]
Set a post for quarter section corner from which a burr oak 18 inches diameter bears S.48°W.76 links. and a burr oak
14 inches diameter bears S.81°3N E35 links diameter
79.80 [5,266.8ft]
East
The corner to sections 7, 8,17, & 18 land the barrens is gentyl rolling with soil not fit for cultivation. Timber with
white and burr oak. The prairie east of slough is good dry land fit for cultivation.
Chains
On a random line beween sections 9
40.00 [2,640.0 ft]
& 16 Township 40 north Range one East of the third principle meridian.
How to Use This Document:
This document has been designed to be a comprehensive guide to the restoration of Skare Park, a planning tool, a guideline
for restoration and as an aid to solicit funding. You will find that each page not only contributes to the overall effectiveness
of this document, but it will also stand-alone as an informational piece. These pages can be inserted into grant submittals,
can be utilized in a fund raising/marketing campaign or can be used as a leave-behind piece for potential donors.
Each restoration area identified not only provides the District with an estimated cost on implementation, it also provides
and estimated number of labor hours that would be needed to complete the restoration and/or stewardship work. This
gives the District flexibility in trying to get some of the work done through in-house staff and/or with volunteer labor.
Recommended activities for staff/volunteers has been provided in Appendix D
Implementation and Prioritization of the Ecological Master Plan:
Implementation of the Ecological Master Plan phases should be prioritized as they relate to ecological impact, feasibility of
cost, visual impact, and integration within the community. Following is a summarized list of the identified restoration areas
with associated probable costs that has been prioritized by ecology + vision, llc. based on the above deter¬mining factors:
Phase I (Basic Restoration & Stewardship)
3.1 – Wooded Bluff- $90,045.00 – $166,060.00
3.2 – Upland Woodlands- $440,130.00 - $747,280.00
1.2* – Mesic Prairie- $114,160.00 - $208,665.00 (*1.2a should be given high priority)
2.1* – Sedge Meadow Wetlands- $285,480.00 - $514,325.00 (*2.1a should be given high priority)
1.3* – Wet-Mesic Prairie- $399,330.00 - $589,705.00 (*1.3a should be given high priority)
1.1 – Dry-Mesic Prairie-
$87,555.00 - $152,325.00
2.2 – Drainage Swale Wetlands-
$50,635.00 - $95,525.00
2.3 – Shoreline/Floodplain Wetlands-
$54,125.00 - $98,225.00
3.4 – Secondary Growth Woodland-
$606,835.00 - $1,044,705.00
3.3 – Wooded Floodplain-
$429,020.00 - $669,890.00
4.2 – Agricultural Field Conversion-
$208,700.00 - $352,875.00
4.1 – Park Entrance-
$76,080.00 - $144,650.00
Phase I Total (Includes 5-yrs Stewardship)- $2,842,095.00 - $4,784,230.00
Phase II (Long-Term Tree Planting)
3.1 – Wooded Bluff- 3.2 – Upland Woodlands- 1.2 – Mesic Prairie- 2.1 – Sedge Meadow Wetlands- 1.3 – Wet-Mesic Prairie- 1.1 – Dry-Mesic Prairie-
2.2 – Drainage Swale Wetlands-
2.3 – Shoreline/Floodplain Wetlands-
3.4 – Secondary Growth Woodland-
3.3 – Wooded Floodplain-
4.2 – Agricultural Field Conversion-
Phase II Total-
Phase III
3.5 – Pine Plantation-
$12,600.00 – $21,355.00
$191,610.00 - $246,010.00
$292,440.00 - $452,570.00
$22,760.00 - $35,825.00
$142,780.00 - $237,740.00
$61,910.00 - $183,035.00
$22,600.00 - $31,935.00
$53,845.00 - $76,115.00
$379,545.00 - $592,335.00
$322,920.00 - $507,725.00
$114,580.00 - $175,250.00
$1,617,590.00 - $2,259,895.00
$355,645.00 - $1,062,910.00I
Appendix F - Document Breakdown
The Natural Areas Restoration opinion of probable costs provided in
this document are based on all work being contracted by a professional
ecological restoration firm. The probable costs are based on current
economic factors (2013) and do not include any estimated increases
regarding labor, fuel, and/or material costs. Because this plan is so
preliminary a cost range has been provided for each restoration area.
• Basic – The Basic Restoration/Reconstruction costs reflect minimal
actions to implement the proposed activities and does not include
items that will most likely add to the success and desired aesthetic of
the restoration areas, i.e. the Basic cost may include a less diverse seed
mix, would not include planting live plants, may exclude erosion control
materials and does not include the Phase II or Phase II tree planting.
o The low-end of the Basic costs include industry standard rates,
the high-end of the costs include current State Prevailing Wages
• Advanced – The Advanced Restoration/Reconstruction costing reflects
the inclusion of items that will add to the success and desired aesthetic of
the restoration areas including highly diverse seed mixes, the planting of
live plants to increase diversity, erosion control materials where necessary
and any tree plantings required in Phase II and Phase III.
o The low-end of the Advanced costs include industry standard
rates, the high-end of the costs include current State
Prevailing Wages
• Stewardship – The stewardship costing has been separated by years,
typically the first three years are most intensive while the native plants are
becoming established. One prescribed fire has been included in the third
year of Stewardship. Typically in years 4 & 5 weeds are becoming under
control and pioneer native plants have become established, therefore
maintenance efforts are reduced. A prescribed fire has been included in
each of these years. After 5 years, typically weeds are under control and
a diverse planting of native species have been established. Prescribed fire
should be implemented every year or every-other year on a rotational
basis.
o The low-end of the Stewardship costs include industry standard
rates, the high-end of the costs include current State
Prevailing Wages
• Permits/Design – For each project undertaken there may be design
work required to solicit bids from contractors and/or for permitting. We
have allotted approximately 15% of the construction costs to cover any
necessary permitting and design. This may include drain tile investigations,
construction documents, surveys, etc.
The final plan for each of these areas will likely be somewhere in the
middle of the given range and may also be influenced by Park District staff
and volunteer inputs.
Bretthauer, S., Edgington, J. , Uden, C., McDaniel, R. 2002. Forest Resources of Illinois, 2002. Illinois Forestry Development Council, and University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Dept. of Natural
Resources and Environmental Sciences. Illinois Forestry Development Council.
Kammin, Laura. 2012. Living with White-tailed Deer in Illinois. University of Illinois Office of Sustainability. <http://m.extension.illinois.edu/deer/damage.cfm?SubCat=8890>
Kauffman, H., Kauffman, R., 1909. History of Ogle County. Chicago Munsell Publishing Company, Chicago.
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. 2001. The Clemson Beaver Pond Leveler. <http://files.dnr.state.mn.us/assistance/backyard/privatelandsprogram/clemson_beaver_pond_leveler.pdf>
Natural Land Trust. 2008. Stewardship Handbook for Natural Areas in Southeastern Pennsylvania. <http://natlands.org>
Northeast Deer Technical Committee. 2008. An Evaluation of Deer Management Options. <http://dnr.state.md.us/wildlife/Hunt_Trap/deer/deer_management/Deer_Mgt_Options.asp>
Smith, R., Ellis, O., Deturk, E., Bauer, F., Smith, L., 1927. Ogle County Soils: Soil Report No. 38. University of Illinois Agricultural Experiment Station, Illinois.
Soil Survey Staff, Natural Resources Conservation Service, United States Department of Agriculture. Web Soil Survey. <http://websoilsurvey.nrcs.usda.gov/>
Soil Survey Staff, Natural Resources Conservation Service, United States Department of Agriculture. Official Soil Series Descriptions. Available online at <http://soils.usda.gov/technical/classification/
osd/index.html>
Steckel, D. B., H. M. Harper, R. Latham, S. Charkes and A. F. Rhoads. 2008. Stewardship Handbook for Natural Lands in Southeastern Pennsylvania. Natural Lands Trust, Media, Pennsylvania.
Suding, K., Gross, K., Houseman, G., 2004. Alternative states and positive feedbacks in restoration ecology. TRENDS in Ecology and Evolution, Vol. 19, No. 1, January 2004.
Swink, F. 1986. Spring Wildflowers of the Chicago Area. Field Museum of Natural History Bulletin, vol. 57. no. 4 (April).
Thomas, S. 1998. The Natural Communities of Cook County: An Ecological Classification System for Terrestrial Communities. Forest Preserve District of Cook County.
Tippie, Sherri. 2010. Working With Beaver: For Better Habitat Naturally. <http://grandcanyontrust.org/documents/ut_working Beaver2010.pdf>
Wildlife Conservation Society-Canada. 2009. A Pond of Gold. <http://wcscanada.org/publications.aspx>
Worthen, A. H. and J. Shaw. 1873. Geological Survey of Illinois. Volume V. Geology. State of Illinois, Springfield.
White, J., ed. 2009. Illinois Natural Areas Inventory Update: Survey Standards and Guidelines. Eighth edition. Ecological Services, Urbana, Illinois.
Zedler, J.B. and M. Peach. 2005. Increasing wetland diversity: How one plant creates habitat for others. Arboretum Leaflet 2. < http://botany.wisc.edu/zedler/leaflets.html>
Special Thanks to:
Flagg-Rochelle CommuniyPark
District
Board of Commisioners
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Roger Bunger, President
Mic Brooks, Vice President
Christa Seebach, Secretary
Richard Ohlinger, Treasurer
Terry Dickow, Commissioner
Bud Norcross, Commissioner
Michelle Pease, Commissioner
Staff
• Eric Christensen, CPRP, Executive Director
• Elizabeth Sosa, CPRP, Superintendent of Recreation
•
•
•
•
•
•
Ryan Coffland, Recreation Coordinator
Sarah Kilmer, Executive Assistant
Dale Wood, Lead Maintenance I
Matt Milligan, Lead Maintenance II
Curt Helgren, Maintenance
Brian Ramsey, Maintenance
• Ray Schwartz, Past Executive Director
References

Skare Park Restoration Masterplan

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