Ecological Restoration Report
While some volunteers were working on maintenance and marking of trails, a community of volunteer stewards formed last year for the purpose of restoring and maintaining native
landscapes, a process known as ecological restoration. A group of stewards led by Mark Krivchenia identifies areas where invasive plants—plants that are not native to the region and harm the biodiversity of the native ecosystem—have established themselves. After clearing the invasive plants, the group sows seeds of native plants that are appropriate for that area.
Krivchenia explained, “Ecological restoration focuses on repairing native ecosystems and seeks to return them to an earlier, healthier state. The goal is to increase the native biodiversity to the ecosystem. This allows native plants and wildlife to flourish.”
Krivchenia and a team of volunteers began their work in summer 2022. Since October, the group has had more than 40 restoration workdays with over 500 hours of volunteer service.
They continue to work tirelessly to combat invasive species in the Broughton Nature and Wildlife Education Area.
Invasive species have been cut and burned on the Red Trail from the Carl Broughton Pond to the AEP Right-of-Way. The stewards are currently focused on cutting and burning invasive species on the Blue Trail. Work has been completed on the lower third of the Blue Trail. Work will continue on the Red Trail until completed.
Mark and his team are excited by native plant species observed after removing invasive plant like privet, multi-flora rose and bush honeysuckle from the Blue Trail. The effects can be quite dramatic and the team predicts that this area will become a favorite to admirers of native wildflowers and woodland plants and trees!
Anyone wishing to volunteer, may contact the Foundation office or contact Mr. Krivchenia directly. Announcements of upcoming workdays, and other information can be found on The Broughton Foundation website and social media platforms.
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