On May 14 these groups met to remove as much privet, and other invasives, as they could before the heat, ticks and humidity arrive, at this species rich park. The event was attended by 10 volunteers and 3 members of the Fuquay Varina Park Systems landscaping team. The weather was perfect and everyone was experienced and motivated for a productive morning.
When we first started on this site at the end of winter, the understory of the forest was dense, which made it difficult to see through. We began our efforts at the start of Honeysuckle Lane Trail, at the parking lot, and moved in a southward direction. When we finished, the stream was visiable all the way to the small wooden bridge that crosses it. Next season we will start from that point and work our way to the larger stream at the end of the trail.
A member of another conservation partner, The NC Native Plant Society, ID’d some interesting natives our efforts exposed. She found 10 differant fern species and a paw paw tree, among others. Hopefully, the more we give natives a chance the more they will thrive.
As well as invasive removal South Wake Conservationists have committed with The Audubon Society to restoring the park to its orginal state. We also, are working with the city to establish a prarie garden along the new pipe line that runs by the larger creek. This will be a long term project that coincides with the urban sprawl occuring to the area and will create an urban sanctuary for wildlife and those who visit. So looking forward to the next event there!