Grace Woods

Summary: 

This project focused on the prevention and management of the woodland property of Grace Methodist Church. This includes preventing the woodland from vandalism and destruction, and management of the property including the presence of invasive species. Therefore, we first look into the soil conditions such as soil type and drainage, as well as the light conditions. This was the most important factor for picking the understory species to include. From this, we developed a master list of forbs, graminoids, and shrubs that will be suitable for the location and help with the diversity as well as enhance wildlife habitat.  

In addition, we took inventory of the invasive species and mapped them. This will help the property managers identify and remove the species we found on the site, which will help with the establishment of native species. One other objective has to do with monitoring the property and protecting it from vandalism. Research was done to evaluate different trail cams and lock box options. We also made some signage that explains that the public is welcome to use the property, but also letting them know it is monitored and should be treated respectfully. We decided not to create educational signage since the vandalism has been targeted at other signs, and we are leaving the species selection up to the property manager. 

In conclusion, managing an urban woodland involves many challenges, from invasive and native species, to ecological issues and the human dimension of the landscape. It is clear that there has to be multiple factors considered when deciding how to manage an urban woodland. Getting an urban landscape to be sustainable requires a multifaceted approach, and there will always be tradeoffs when deciding on management strategies. 

Final Report