|
|
|
November 2004 Site Observations |
In the past year, the new riparian reforestation site off Forest Glen Rd. has shown some improvement compared to one year ago. Nearly all the plastic sleeves that were protecting the trees were replaced with welded metal cages and as a result the trees look healthier. However, none of the trees appear to have grown much. Measurements were taken of sample trees to compare growth of the trees in future years when the measurements are retaken. The invasive plants that were a big problem for the new trees last year now are now only a problem for the ones at the far southern end. One problem observed was that the unprotected tree saplings have all been damaged by deer. There are several young cedar trees that have been particularly hard hit. The cedar trees appear to be volunteers and were never protected. These cedar trees need to be protected. At a minimum, chicken wire should be used. All the trees also need to be mulched. There is little leaf litter, and the trees are competing against the grass for moisture and nutrients.
The situation is similar at the University Blvd. reforestation site. Last year the riparian reforestation site was sprayed with herbicide. Possibly as a result, the invasives appear to be significantly less of a problem this year. The metal cages appear to be keeping the deer away. During the inspection, however, I noted that several metal cages had fallen. The weight of these cages was enough to knock down the shrubs. Many of the wood posts supporting the metal cages appear to be rotting (the ground stays wet here) and failing. The Sycamore and Eastern Redbuds trees appear to be thriving at this site. The Sycamores appear to need only minimal deer protection (from rutting). The majority of trees appear to be healthy. Tree measurements were taken of sample trees.