HomeMy Public PortalAbout2020-2021 Invasive Plant Species InventoryInvasive Plant Species Inventory
of
2020-2021
Prepared by:
Quercus Land Stewardship Services
Alex Wenthe, Rob Schubert, Eliot Gore, Kailey Yaun
Table of Contents
Introduction & Description.............................................................................................3
Methods............................................................................................................................4
Survey.........................................................................................................................4
Biodiversity Index.......................................................................................................6
Hazard Trees...............................................................................................................6
Municipal Dump Site..................................................................................................7
Inventory
Manor Drive Woodland...............................................................................................8
East Woodland and Old-field....................................................................................10
Crissey House Woodland..........................................................................................14
Northwest Woodland.................................................................................................17
Figures
Biodiversity Index Table...........................................................................................21
Survey Area (1-8)Species List...................................................................................21
Hazard Tree Table.....................................................................................................30
Attachments
(These figures are provided in an attached PDF document)
Survey Area Map
Native Communities Map
Invasive Species Overview Map
Dumpsite Location Map
Hazard Tree Map
2
Introduction
The purpose of this report is to locate and document the invasive plant species on public property
within the City of Riverdale, Iowa. This report includes a comprehensive botanical survey, an
inventory of woody and herbaceous invasive plant species, locations of native areas and hazard
trees, as well as the supporting maps and coordinates for each. The survey was completed in the
field season of 2020 and the report in the winter of 2020/21 by Quercus Land Stewardship
Services, in cooperation with The City of Riverdale, Scott Community College, and Arconic Inc.
Description
The City of Riverdale Iowa encompasses approximately two square miles along the Mississippi
River in the Quad Cities Area of Iowa and Illinois. The city extent includes approximately 1.6
miles of riverfront and reaches approximately 2 miles inland at the furthest point. The City
contains several parks and natural areas, owned by The City of Riverdale, Scott Community
College, and Arconic Inc., which are the focus of this report.
The City of Riverdale is situated along a prominent slope in the Mississippi River Valley. The
flatter portions of the City are largely developed as residential or commercial areas, including the
Arconic aluminum factory complex, which encompasses roughly 1 square mile along the
Mississippi River. As a result of land-use and ownership, many of the City’s natural areas are
situated along this slope and have been altered by human efforts in recent decades.
The natural areas are mostly forested. Some of the areas contain large oak and walnut dominated
canopies. However, approximately half of the surveyed woodland acres arose recently through
recent succession of former agricultural fields, and are somewhat depauperate of native flora. As a
result, these areas have low biodiversity and ecological stability, and are susceptible to damage
from high wind and rain events, as witnessed during the course of the survey.
While often degraded, the state of these natural areas present an opportunity to redefine their role
within the community. Improving the ecological health of these areas would greatly increase the
natural resilience and overall aesthetic of greenspace within the City limits. These areas could offer
a place of natural refuge, highlight the historic vistas and natural heritage of Riverdale, and
provide a cohesive trail/linkage throughout the city. The aim of this report is to create a baseline
invasive and vegetation survey that can guide the initial natural resource management and assist a
variety of future efforts in these areas.
3
Methods
Botanical Survey
We completed a comprehensive vegetation survey in eight (8) different areas thought the City of
Riverdale. The formal survey began in January of 2020, and subsequent visits occurred in April,
June, August and October. Owner/Ecologist - Alex Wenthe, and Botanist - Rob Schubert,
conducted the survey along with a qualified support crew. During each trip, the areas were
surveyed for invasive species present on the WDNR-NR40 list as well as the Iowa DNR Forestry
Health - Field guide for invasive species.
The bulk of our information was gathered during the growing season, in April, June and August. In
these months we used a modified time-meandered survey approach (WDNR 2020) to provide a
standardized observation of existing plant species. This approach provided a snapshot of the areas
and may not have captured every species present. We are confident this method located the
invasive species as well as the vast majority of extant plant species within the City of Riverdale
natural areas. This survey method and report should provide the information relevant to
management efforts over the coming decades. Areas should be resurveyed in 15-20 years.
GPS locations
Whenever an invasive species was discovered, we recorded the type and number of individuals,
then recorded GPS coordinates if appropriate. Coordinates were recorded by a Garmin Montana
600 GPS with an accuracy of 1 to 3 meters. GPS point were recorded during the April, June
August visits. Recording a GPS point for every plant is neither feasible or useful. The protocol for
recording GPS points was based on the species density, as known or expected from prior visits.
If an invasive species was rarely encountered, it was recorded each time. If a species was common
throughout a unit, patches with greater than 10 individuals were recorded. If a species was
prevalent or dense, patches with greater than 20 individuals were recorded if appropriate. Patches
that were seen in multiple months were only recorded once. After the data were consolidated,
species areas were assigned invasion classifications based on management units.
Management Units
Invasive species pay little attention to parcel lines or survey unit boundaries. For that reason, and
to help guide future control efforts, we combined the survey units into larger management areas
based on proximity and likeness. We evaluated invasion classifications, ecological threats, and
management recommendations for each management unit. The four units are outlined below:
Manor Drive Woodland
East Woodland and Old-field
Crissey House Woodland
Northwest Woodland
4
Invasion Classifications
Each invasive species was assigned an invasion classification based on the coverage throughout
the survey area.
Isolated – Invasive species are found at one to three locations in the area. These species
are currently contained and should be directly targeted for immediate control.
Scattered – Invasive species are present throughout survey area, mainly as individuals and
occasional small patches. These species are regularly present throughout the area but have
not yet disrupted ecological processes.
Prevalent – Invasive are consistently present throughout survey area, with many small
patches and or few large patches. These species are well established and will take
significant effort for control.
Dense – Invasive species are consistently present throughout the survey area. Many dense
patches/hard to discern actual patches. These species are a dominant feature of the area.
5
Biodiversity Index
The Shannon Area Index, also known as Shannon-Wiener Biodiversity Index, measures the
diversity within an area through the observation of species richness and evenness. The Shannon
Area index ranks the order, or disorder, of a natural community by comparing number of species
present within a sample area to the number of total possible species (REWHC 2020).
We completed a Shannon Area calculation for each of eight (8) survey units. For each unit we
compared the number of species (n) in the Survey Area to the total number of species observed in
all units. Each species was classified as a category and assigned number based on the natural
logarithm of species present.
Shannon-Wiener Index H = -sum(Pilog[Pi])
In general, survey areas were not floristically rich and often dominated by invasive species. These
factors can skew the results of biodiversity indices. To offset this effect, we also calculated the
Shannon Instability Index, to demonstrate likely invasive dominance. These calculations were
made using online biodiversity calculators (BMPG 2019, Young 2018). Numbers were rounded to
the nearest tenth. We then weighted the results of each calculation to provide a priority ranking for
management purposes.
Citations
WDNR 2020. Timed-Meander Sampling Protocol for Wetland Floristic Quality Assessment.
https://dnr.wi.gov/topic/Wetlands/documents/TimedMeanderSamplingProtocol.pdf
REWHC, 2020. Shannon Area Index
http://rewhc.org/biomeasures.shtml
Young Studios 2018 Biodiversity Index Calculator
h ttps://www.alyoung.com/labs/biodiversity_calculator.html
BPMG 2019 Diversity Calculators
https://bpmsg.com/tools/div-calc.php
Hazard Trees
We completed a hazardous tree survey in August 2020. We surveyed all moderate to high risk
areas, including Manor Drive Woodland Unit, Volunteer Park forest edge, Peggy’s Park/Bike Path,
and Cressey House Woodlands. Hazard trees were not assessed on the interior of large units.
Trees that showed signs of poor health or structure were classified as hazardous. Hazard trees with
close proximity to structures or pathways were deemed highly hazardous and marked with paint.
The survey was conducted after the historic derecho storm. Many of the trees were likely caused
by this storm. Some of the trees were removed my Quercus or City staff
The moat notable hazard trees are in unit hazard trees located in Unit 1 and 2 and shown on an
attached map. We recommend removal of high and medium hazard trees, especially ones near
pathways or parks. Full set of pictures available here:
https://www.dropbox.com/sh/p4leh5574l816v1/AADyeAZe8wZKo5U7s5waG_4ra?dl=0
6
Municipal Dump Site
The City of Riverdale needs a location to dispose of yard waste and tree debris that is a result of
typical grounds maintenance. The current municipal dumpsite is located in Bicentennial Park, just
north of the utility tower, but is not adequate for many factors. Ideally, the new site would be easily
accessible, but hidden from view, and allow enough space for proper storage and turn-around.
After surveying the City, we propose a new dumpsite at the end of Windsor Drive with two
alternative sites. A discussion of each location is below and a map is attached to aid the discussion
among City staff.
Current site: Bicentennial Park (southeast woodline)
The current location is not ideal because it is visible by park users and located
atop/around native vegetation and the historic plantings of the West Hill house. It has
become a de-facto dump site because of the ease of access by City staff with large trucks.
Proposed site: Windsor Drive
This site is easily accessible from Windsor Drive. It is relatively flat and would need only
minor improvements to an existing trail/two track to allow truck entry. It is close
proximity to parks, City Hall, Mayor’s house, and neighborhoods. It could be placed atop
degraded vegetation and not disrupt native restorations or future trails. This area could also
be expanded to allow for residential dumping. Although Windosr Drive residents may have
concerns, if constructed properly this location could be hidden from view of residents.
Alternative site 1: Fieldcrest Road
This site is easily accessible from Fieldcrest Road and hidden from view of most
residents. However improvements would need to be made to allow ample space for a truck
to enter, and the site would likely be seen he residents at the end of Field Crest drive. This
area could be used by residents of the Woods estate
Alternative site 2: Cressey House
This site is easily accessible from the highway and has a large parking lot area to turn
around or place a dumpster. It is highly visible but could be constructed to be hidden
from the street. A dumpsite would take away from a future recreational development of the
property. It could also be used as a seasonal collection area for Havens Acre residents.
7
Manor Drive Woodland
Description
This unit encompasses the wooded slope directly behind City Hall and along Manor Drive. The
area contains a closed canopy woodland, roughly 60 years old, dominated by basswood, black
locust, and hackberry, along with minor components of oak, walnut, black cherry, and elm .The
understory is dominated by bush honeysuckle and young basswood and locust trees. Overall the
unit is severely degraded.
Area 2 has a more established canopy with larger red and bur oak trees. The understory is
dominated by young buckthorn and choke cherry. Native wildflowers like bloodroot, Dutchmen’s
breeches, and hepatica are also present. A utility corridor connects the two units along the western
boundary and is kept open as at right-of-way. A small volunteer trail extends from City Hall,
through Unit 1 and 2 into Bicentennial Park.
Shannon Biodiversity Index: 2.7
Shannon Stability Index: 65%
Native Communities Present: 2 – Dry-mesic forest, Oak Woodland
Priority Ranking: 2 of 4
8
Invasive species inventory
Tree-of-Heaven Ailanthus altissima – Isolated
Patch of 10-20 individuals in woodlands near southwest corner of City Hall.
Garlic mustard Alliaria petiolata – Prevalent
Scattered individuals and patches throughout Areas 1 and 2. Most prevalent in Unit 1.
Dense patches along Manor Drive near driveway to city hall. Also prevalent along
transmission line corridor and all edges of Bicentennial Park.
Burdock Arctium minor – Scattered
Scattered individuals along edges of Areas 1 and 2. Patches in transmission line corridor
and along west edge of Bicentennial Park.
Biennial thistle Cardus nutans and Cirsium vulgare – Scattered
Scattered individuals along eastern edges of Areas 1 and 2. Mainly in transmission lines
and along west edge of Bicentennial Park.
Smooth brome Bromus inermis – Isolated
Patches in transmission line. Naturalized grass species, not a concern in these units.
Creeping Bellflower Campanula rapunculoides – Scattered
Scattered individuals throughout unit. Large patches near City hall lawn and near dump site
in Bicentennial Park.
Asian Bittersweet Celastrus orbiculatus – Scattered
Large patch in Area 2 near municipal dumpsite and further downhill. Scattered individuals
in Area 2. All individuals less that 5 years old.
Orchard grass Dactylis glomerata – Isolated
Patches in transmission line. Naturalized grass species, not a concern in these areas.
Queen Anne's lace Daucus carota – Scattered
Patches found in sunny areas of transmission line corridor. Isolated individuals on west
edge of Bicentennial Park.
Wintercreeper Euonymus fortunei – Scattered
Large patch near transmission line and dump site of Bicentennial Park. Scattered patches
throughout Areas 1 and 2.
Orange day-lily Hemerocallis fulva – Isolated
Large patch on slope behind City hall near Manor Drive.
Dame's rocket Hesperis matronalis - Prevalent
Individuals and patches throughout Areas 1 and 2. Most prevalent in south edge of Area 1,
behind City Hall. Also prevalent within transmission line corridor.
9
Motherwort Leonurus cardiaca – Scattered
Individuals throughout Areas 1 and 2. Patches along west edge of Bicentennial Park.
Honeysuckle Lonicera x bella – Prevalent
Individuals present throughout Areas 1 and 2. Larger individuals (~10-15yrs) are
concentrated along the base of the slope behind City Hall and along Manor drive. Smaller
individuals (5-10 yrs) are up-slope near Bicentennial Park.
Mulberry Morus alba – Prevalent
Individuals ranging from 1-30 years old are consistently found throughout units. Not dense.
Common buckthorn Rhamnus cathartica – Prevalent
Individuals consistently present throughout Areas 1 and 2. Mostly less than 5 years old.
Occasional large individuals (10 yrs)
Black Locust Robidnia pseudoacaia – Prevalent
Trees consistently present throughout Areas 1. Pocket of large trees in southeast of Area 1,
near City Hall, approximately 50 years old.
Siberican squill Scilla siberica – Prevalent
Scattered individuals throughout Areas 1 and 2. Dense patch near residential dumpsite.
Multiflora rose Rosa multiflora – Scattered
Small to moderate sized individuals growing along transmission line and west side of
Bicentennial Park. A few scattered individuals within Area 2.
10
Threats
High – Black Locust, Buckthorn, Honeysuckle, Garlic Mustard, Dame’s Rocket
Medium – Tree of heaven, Multiflora rose, Motherwort, Creeping Bellflower
Recommendations
Promote conversion to dry-mesic hardwood forest (DNR Southern d ry-mesic ) with canopy
dominated by oak, hickory, cherry, and walnut
Control invasive shrubs and trees by cutting and treating the stump with herbicide. Use herbicides
labeled for a cut-surface application to the target species, such as triclopyr, glyphosate, or dicamba.
Clear undesirable trees and shrubs around large charismatic oaks along Manor Drive. Pile and burn
the cut material the visible areas.
Selective harvest of black walnut and other marketable non-oak trees. Avoid high-grading.
Conduct foliar herbicide treatments to herbaceous invasive species in May and June.
Re-vegetate the under-story with native seed of species similar to other oak woodlands in the area.
Promote establishment of oak trees. Release oak saplings through timber-stand improvement and
plant a mix of red and white oak saplings in natural canopy openings.
Formalize and improve a recreational trail between City Hall and Bicentennial Park.
11
East Woods and Old-field
Description
Survey Area 3 is a central hardwood forest with a moderately diverse canopy and poorly formed
overstory trees. While the stand is generally degraded, there is good coverage of native flora in the
goundlayer, including an impressive display of woodland bluegrass and a small stand of bur oak.
An area in the southeast corner has a stand of 18’’-24’’ black walnut which may have potential for
future harvest. A stream flows through Area 3 and shows signs of recent erosion such as freshly
exposed soil and incised banks. There are higher quality wet meadow areas along the stream that
show potential for restoration and represent the majority of the plant species found within the unit
Area 4 is a surrogate grassland community with relatively high diversity for an idle field, including
six different sedges (Carex sp.). The dominant species is Canada goldenrod with approximately
30% cover. Invasive species such as reed canary grass, Phragmites, and bird-foot trefoil are also
present and should be removed prior to any restoration work. Shrub encroachment is beginning
throughout the unit.
Area 5 is in undergoing a transition in natural state. The presence of wetland/ sedge meadow
species in the under story and pioneer tree species indicate the area was more open in recent years.
Area 5 has low overall plant diversity, however a high percent cover of native species. Stream
bank in this unit could directly benefit remnant vegetation and potentially reduce further erosion.
Both areas 4 and 5 indicate seasonally wetter conditions or recently altered hydrology. Area 5
retains a small wet meadow remnant community at the base of the slope worthy of restoration.
12
Shannon Biodiversity Index: 3.1
Shannon Stability Index: 89%
Native Communities Present:4 - Dry-mesic forest, Surrogate grassland, Sedge meadow, Riparian
Priority Ranking : 1 of 4
Invasive species inventory
Amur maple Acer ginalla – Scattered
Large patch in woods south of Windsor Drive. Small saplings in Area 4 old-field.
Norway maple Acer pseudoplatanus – Isolated
Older trees near Mayor’s house in Area 3.
Tree-of-Heaven Ailanthus altissima - Isolated
Moderate patch along woodland/prairie border between Areas 3 and 4.
Garlic mustard Alliaria petiolata - Prevalent
Prevalent throughout woodland Areas 3,4,5. Large patches in Area 3
Burdock Arctium minor – Scattered
Scattered throughout Area 4 old field and along woodland edges near area 5.
Smooth brome Bromus inermis – Prevalent
Prevalent throughout Area 4 old field. Naturalized.
Canada thistle Cirsium arvense – Prevalent
Individuals and small patches throughout Area 4 old-field.
Bull thistle Cirsium vulgare – Scattered
Scattered individualsthrought Areas 3 and 4. More prevalent in Area 4 but still scattered.
Asiatic day-flower Commelina communis - Scattered
Scattered individuals in Area 5 along seeps and near locust thicket to northeast.
Reed Canary Grass Phalaris arundinacea Scattered
Scattered patched in Area 4 old-field. Scattered patches in areas of sunlight along
stream/seepage in Areas 3 and 5.
Orange day-lily Hemerocallis fulva – Isolated
Large patches near Mayor’s residence in Area 3.
Dame's rocket Hesperis matronalis – Prevalent
Individuals through Areas 3 and 5. Denser patches to southwest of Area 3.
13
Motherwort Leonurus cardiaca – Scattered
Individuals throughout Area 3. Denser patches to along western edge of Unit 3.
Honeysuckle Lonicera x bella – Prevalent
Individuals present throughout Areas 3,4, and 5. Larger individuals (~10yrs) are
concentrated along edges of woodlands. Dense in Northeast of Area 3 near Windsor Dr.
Bird's-foot Trefoil Lotus cornuculata – Prevalent
Prevalent throughout Area 4 in dense patches. Rare/isolated in Areas 3 and 5.
Amur Silver Grass Miscanthus sacchariflorus – Isolated
Dense patch on South edge of areas 3 and 5 near Scott Community College driveway.
Mulberry Morus alba – Scattered
Individuals ranging from 2-15 years old are consistently found throughout Area 3 and 5.
Reed Canary Grass Phalaris arundinacea - Scattered
Isolated patches in Areas 3 and 5 in wet areas. Found alond stream banks in area 3 and wet
meadow of Area 5. Dense in areas of sunlight.
Common Reed Phragmites australis – Isolated
Dense patch along SCC driveway in Area 5. Scattered individuals in wet meadow.
Common Buckthorn Rhamnus cathartica – Prevalent
Individuals consistently present throughout unit 3 Mostly less than 10 years old. Larger
indidvuals along south and west portion of Area 3
Black Locust Robidnia pseudoacaia – Prevalent
Trees consistently present throughout all areas. Dense patch (clone) of ~10 year old trees in
Area 5 near SCC drive. Scattered individuals in Area 4 and along boundaries of Area 3 and
4. Scattered trees of 10-40 years in canopy of Area 3.
Multiflora Rose Rosa multiflora – Scattered
Concentrated in Area 4 and boundary with Area 5. Scattered individuals in Area 4 old-field
and larger individuals/ dense patch along north edge of Area 5 near driveway.
Canada Goldenrod Solidago canadensis – Dense
Dense throughout Area 4. Dominant patches (clones) present in old field. Nearly 30%
coverage of entire Area 4.
Siberian Elm Ulmus pumila – Scattered
Scattered individuals throughout Area 4. Mostly small saplings. Some larger trees in old
interior fencelines of Area 4.
14
Threats
High – Black Locust, Buckthorn, Honeysuckle, Canada Goldenrod, Garlic Mustard, Siberian Elm
Medium – Dame’s Rocket, Bird’s foot trefoil, Amur Maple, Canada Thistle
Recommendations
Area 3 presents an opportunity for woodland restoration which could maintain the current forest
structure and focus on improving species diversity. The forest should be allowed to mature and
invasive species should be removed to promote succession to oak forest.
Area 4 presents a favorable opportunity for a prairie restoration. Invasive shrub and herbaceous
plants should be removed and/or treated. Invasive shrub removal consisting of cutting and/or foliar
herbicide application is recommended. There is a large amount of woody material to remove, and a
high potential for a secondary invasion of exotic trees following canopy disturbance. Scattered
clumps of small diameter black locust trees should be basal bark treated with herbicide.
After invasive control, Area 4 should be inter-seeded with a diverse mix of native mesic-prairie
species. The use of prescribed fire will improve seed to soil contact prior to seeding and discourage
future shrub encroachment after seeding. A prairie restoration would add educational, recreational,
and ecological value to the area.
Area 5 primarily consists of a wet meadow and riparian area. The stream is incised and in need of
stabilization. The wet meadow would benefit from wetland specific restoration efforts. Invasive
woody and herbaceous plants should be removed and/or treated. Control Reed Canary Grass prior
to tree removal. Black locust clones should be basal bark treated with herbicide.
15
Crissey House Woodland
Description
Area 6 is a relatively small woodlot containing mostly exotic tree species that encroached an old
agricultural field. The area is severely degraded and clean slate would need to be established prior
to any meaningful ecological restoration. The most interesting aspect of Area 6 is the historic
Crissey house. An ecological reconstruction approach with native landscaping and prairie plantings
could greatly improve the quality and aesthetic of the site.
Area 7 appears to have high potential for ecological restoration and natural resource management.
The size of the area provides an advantage from both a habitat and recreation perspective. The area
has rolling topography and is bisected by an intermittent stream. Portions of the north and west of
Area 7 contain large open-grown oaks, which are characteristic of the historic oak-savanna
ecosystem that once covered much of the Midwest. Invasive species density is relatively low
making the potential for restoration cost effective.
Shannon Biodiversity Index: 2.6
Shannon Stability Index: 52%
Native Communities Present: 1 – Oak Woodland
Priority Ranking: 3 of 4
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Invasive species inventory
Garlic Mustard Alliaria petiolata – Dense
Individuals and patches throughout Areas 6 and 7. Dominant patches in Area 6. Both
areas show signs of long term invasion and established seed banks.
Ragweed Ambrosia artemesiafolia – Prevalent
Scattered individuals throughout both units. Dense in Area 6 and along forest edges.
Burdock Arctium minor – Prevalent
Individuals and patches in Area 6.
Japanese barberry Berberis thunbergii – Scattered
Scattered individuals throughout Area 7. Large individuals in Area 6 and planted near
Crissey house.
Spindletree Euonymus europeaus – Isolated
Few individuals in Area 6.
Orchard Grass Dactylis glomerata – Scattered
Patches in Area 6, especially along edge. Intermixed with Elymus repen.
Quack Grass Elymus repens – Prevalent
Patches in Area 6, especially along edge. Intermixed with Dactylis glomerata.
Dame's Rocket Hesperis matronalis – Prevalent
Common in Area 6. Scattered individuals in Area 7.
Honeysuckle Lonicera x bella – Prevalent
Large individuals near Crissey house. Scattered throughout Area 7, most shrubs less than 5
years old.
Yellow Sweet Clover Melilotus officinalis – Scattered
Scattered individuals and patches in Area 6.
Reed Canary Grass Phalaris arundinacea – Scattered
Individuals in Area 6 woodlands. Large patch to the south and near wet ditch area.
Multiflora Rose Rosa multiflora – Prevalent
Individuals common throughout Area 6.
Cattail Typha x glauca – Isolated
Patch along roadside, restricted to wet ditch area.
Common Buckthorn Rhamnus cathartica – Prevalent
Common in Area 6. Some large individuals. Scattered small saplings throughout Area 7.
17
Black locust Robinia pseudoacacia – Prevalent
Larger trees in Area 6. Small patch to northwest of Area 6. Some larger trees snapped off
by wind.
Curly Dock Rumex crispus – Scattered
Scattered individuals in disturbed spots of Area 6.
Threats
High – Black Locust, Buckthorn, Honeysuckle, Garlic Mustard
Medium – Japanese Barberry, Multiflora rose, Dame’s rocket
Recommendations
Given the size and current natural state, ecological reconstruction and landscaping is the best
approach in Area 6. It would make an excellent candidate for a future park and interpretive center.
The James Brown House provides a focal point from which to develop a historically inspired
landscape design utilizing native species to create an educationally enriching, immersive native
landscape experience.
Remove hazard trees from Area 6 and plant native tree and shrubs as appropriate.
Transition turf grass to prairie plantings to improve city wide aesthetic along main corridor.
Consider Oak Savanna restoration in Area 7.
Control invasive brush through cut-stump treatments.
Control herbaceous invasives with spring and summer foliar herbicide treatments.
Remove undesireable trees starting with small diamter trees and working to larger sizes.
Find a logger or timberworks company to take the wood, or burn it onsite.
Conduct a prescribed burn to clear debris and stimulate existing vegetation.
Interseed native species, including grasses to act as fuel to carry fire.
Continue spring and summer invasive species control for atleast 3 years after tree removal.
Conduct prescribed fire on regular intervals.
18
Northwest Woodland
Description
Area 8 is a former agricultural field that has transitioned to a woodlot containing mostly exotic tree
species. The area is dominated by osage orange and black locust with occasional elm, cherry,
aspen and oak. Overall the stand appears to be approximately 50 years in age and contains a
relatively low numbers of native species. A large effort would be needed to produce a meaningful
ecological restoration.
Shannon Area Index: 2.1
Shannon Stability Index: 41%
Native Communities Present: 0 – none
Priority Ranking: 4 of 4
19
Invasive species inventory
Garlic Mustard Allaria petiolata – Prevalent
Japanese barberry Berberis thunbergii – Scattered
Dame's Rocket Hesperis matronalis – Scattered
Honeysuckle Lonicera x bella – Dense
Yellow Sweet Clover Melilotus officinalis – Scattered
Mulberry Morus alba – Scattered
Common Buckthorn Rhamnus cathartica – Scattered
Black locust Robinia pseudoacacia – Scattered
Multiflora Rose Rosa multiflora – Scattered
Bitter-sweet Nightshade Solanum dulcamara – Scattered
Perriwinkle Vinca minor – Isolated
Threats
High – Garlic Mustard, Osage-Orange, Black Locust
Moderate – Honeysuckle, Japanese barberry
Recommendations
Area 8 would need extensive efforts to improve ecological structure and diversity. The area is low
priority and should remain relatively idle until a long-term plan is developed.
Inexpensive intermediate steps can be taken to encourage the formation of a native canopy in the
future, such as planting hardwood seedlings into natural or artificial canopy openings.
Minimally, the large existing population of garlic mustard should be controlled with regular
treatments.
Removal of osage orange and black locust is needed to complete any long term restoration.
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Biodiversity Index Table
Survey Area Species Lists
Area 1
Common Name Scientific Name Notes
White Snakeroot Ageratina altissima
Tree-of-Heaven Ailanthus altissima Invasive/Remove
Garlic Mustard Alliaria petiolata Invasive/Remove
Nodding Thistle Cardus nutans Invasive/Control in Priority Areas
Wood Sedge Carex blanda
Burr-Reed Sedge Carex sparganioides
Long-Beaked Sedge Carex sprengelii
Catalpa Catalpa speciosa
Hackberry Celtis occidentalis
Enchanter's Nightshade Circaea canadensis
Bull Thistle Cirsium vulgare Invasive/Remove
Wild-Basal Clinopodium vulgare
Silky Wild Rye Elymus villosus
Wintercreeper Euonymus fortunei Invasive/Control in Priority Areas
Pretty Bedstraw Galium concinnum
Begger’s Lice Hackelia sp
Dame's Rocket Hesperis matronalis Invasive/Remove
Black Walnut Juglans nigra
Motherwort Leonurus cardiaca Invasive/Control in Priority Areas
Honeysuckle Lonicera x bella Invasive/Remove
Mulberry Morus alba Invasive/Control in Priority Areas
Hairy sweet cicely Osmorhiza claytonii
Lady’s Thumb Persicaria maculosa
Jumpseed Persicaria virginiana
Pokeweed Phytolacca americana
Black Cherry Prunus serotina
Bur Oak Quercus macrocarpa
Black Locust Robidnia pseudoacaia Invasive/Remove
Common Buckthorn Rhamnus cathartica Invasive/Remove
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Area Cat. (nT)Species (n)Shn Area Ind H(nat)Stabl index Ntv Com Ranking
MDW 141 74 2.7 65 2 2
EW&OF 141 128 3.1 89 4 1
DHW 141 57 2.6 52 1 3
NWW 141 35 2.1 41 0 4
Multiflora Rose Rosa multiflora Invasive/Remove
Black Raspberry Rubus occidentalis
Elderberry Sambucus canadensis
Clustered Black
Snakeroot Sanicula odorata
Siberican Squill Scilla siberica Invasive/Control in Priority Areas
Bristly Greenbriar Smilax hispida
Basswood Tillia americana
Poison Ivy Toxicodendron radicans
Slippery Elm Ulmus rubra
Stinging Nettle Urtica dioca
Downy yellow violet Viola pubescens
Area 2
Common Name Scientific Name Notes
Garlic Mustard Alliaria petiolata Invasive/Remove
Burdock Arctium minor Invasive/Remove
Common Milkweed Asclepias syriaca
Smooth Brome Bromus inermis Introduced/naturalized
Creeping Bellflower
Campanula
rapunculoides Invasive/Control in Priority Areas
Palm Sedge Carex muskingumensis
Burr-Reed Sedge Carex sparganioides
Asian Bittersweet Celastrus orbiculatus Invasive/Remove
Eastern Redbud Cercis canadensis
Enchanter's Nightshade Circaea canadensis
Poison Hemlock Conium maculatum Poisonous/Control Priority Areas
Orchard Grass Dactylis glomerata Introduced/naturalized
Queen Anne's Lace Daucus carota Invasive/Control in Priority Areas
Dutchmen’s breeches Dicentra cucullaria
Wintercreeper Euonymus fortunei Invasive/Control in Priority Areas
Wild geranium Geranimum maculatum
Stickseed Hackelia virginiana
Orange Day-Lily Hemerocallis fulva Invasive/Control in Priority Areas
Hepatica Hepatica acutiloba
Henbit Lamium amblexicaule
Honeysuckle Lonicera x bella Invasive/Remove
Ostrich Fern Matteucia stuthiopteris
Virginia Creeper Parthenocissus inserta
Eastern white pine Pinus strobus
Black Cherry Prunus serotina
Choke Cherry Prunus virginiana
Bur Oak Quercus macrocarpa
Common Buckthorn Rhamnus cathartica Invasive/Remove
Bloodroot Sanguinaria canadensis
22
Siberican Squill Scilla siberica Invasive/Control in Priority Areas
Basswood Tillia americana
Slippery Elm Ulmus rubra
Downy yellow violet Viola pubescense
Wild Grape Vitis riparia
Area 3
Box Elder Acer negundo
Norway Maple Acer pseudoplatanus Invasive/Remove
Garlic Mustard Alliaria petiolata Invasive/Remove
Jack-in-the-Pulpit Arisaema triphylla
Wild ginger Asarum canadense
Long-Awned Wood Grass Brachyelytrum erectum
Wood Sedge Carex blanda
Gray Sedge Carex grisea
Awl-fruited Sedge Carex stipata
Shagbark Hickory Carya ovata
Hackberry Celtis occidentalis
Enchanter's Nightshade Circaea canadensis
Canada Thistle Cirsium arvense Invasive/Remove
Bull Thistle Cirsium vulgare Invasive/Remove
Honewort Cryptotaenia canadensis
Silky Wild Rye Elymus villosus
Virginia Wild Rye Elymus virginicus
Rough Bedstraw Galium asprellum
Honey Locust Gleditsia triacanthos
Stickseed Hackelia virginiana
Orange Day-Lily Hemerocallis fulva Invasive/Remove
Dame's rocket Hesperis matronalis Invasive/Remove
Black Walnut Juglans nigra
Henbit Lamium amblexicaule
Whitegrass Leersia virginica
Motherwort Leonurus cardiaca Invasive/Remove
Honeysuckle Lonicera x bella Invasive/Remove
Canada mayflower Maianthnemum canadense
Mulberry Morus alba Invasive/Remove
Virginia Creeper Parthenocissus inserta
Jumpseed Persicaria virginiana
Reed Canary Grass Phalaris arundinacea Invasive/Remove
Lopseed Phryma leptostachya
Cottonwood Populus deltoides
Black Cherry Prunus serotina
Bur Oak Quercus macrocarpa
Black Oak Quercus veluntina
Common Buckthorn Rhamnus cathartica Invasive/Remove
23
Wild Gooseberry Ribes missouriense
Black locust Robinia pseudoacacia Invasive/Remove
Elderberry Sambucus canadensis
Clustered Black Snakeroot Sanicula odorata
Bitter-sweet Nightshade Solanum dulcamara
Tall Goldenrod Solidago altissima
American Elm Ulmus americana
Slippery Elm Ulmus rubra
High Bush Cranberry Viburnum opulus Introduced/naturalized
Wild Violet Viola sororia
Wild Grape Vitis riparia
Area 4
Common Name Scientific Name
Amur Maple Acer ginnala Invasive/Remove
Box Elder Acer negundo
White Snakeroot Ageratina altissima
Creeping Bentgrass Agrostis stolonifera
Tree-of-Heaven Ailanthus altissima Invasive/Remove
Garlic Mustard Aliria petiolata Invasive/Remove
Ragweed Ambrosia artemesiafolia
Spreading Dogbane Apocynum androsaemifolium
Burdock Arctium minor Invasive/Remove
Common Milkweed Asclepias syriaca
Smooth Brome Bromus inermis Introduced/naturalized
Japanese Brome Bromus japonica Introduced/naturalized
Wood Sedge Carex blanda
Heavy Sedge Carex gravida
Field Oval Sedge Carex molesta
Spreading Oval Sedge Carex normalis
Burr-Reed Sedge Carex sparganioides
Fox Sedge Carex vulpinodea
Catalpa Catalpa speciosa
Hackberry Celtis occidentalis
Canada Thistle Cirsium arvense
Bull Thistle Cirsium vulgare Invasive/Remove
Wild-Basal Clinopodium vulgare
Gray Dogwood Cornus foemina
Orchard Grass Dactylis glomerata
Queen Anne's Lace Daucus carota
Autumn Olive Eleagnus umbellata
Canada Wild Rye Elymus canadensis
Virginia Wild Rye Elymus virginicus
Field Horsetail Equisetum arevense
Daisy Fleabane Erigeron annuus
24
Fleabane Erigeron strigosus
Pretty Bedstraw Galium concinnum Invasive/Remove
Honey Locust Gleditsia triacanthos
Stickseed Hackelia sp.
Black Walnut Juglans nigra
Greene’s Rush Juncus greenei
Interior Rush Juncus interior
Red Cedar Juniperus virginiana
Prickly Lettuce Lactuca serriole
Henbit Lamium amblexicaule
Honeysuckle Lonicera x bella Invasive/Remove
Bird's-foot Trefoil Lotus cornuculata Invasive/Remove
Crab apple Malus sp.Introduced/naturalized
Amur Silver Grass Miscanthus sacchariflorus Invasive/Remove
Wild bergamot Monarda fistulosa
Groundsel Packera paupercula
Virginia Creeper Parthenocissus inserta
Lady’s Thumb Persicaria maculosa
Jumpseed Persicaria virginiana
Reed Canary Grass Phalaris arundinacea Invasive/Remove
Timothy Grass Phleum pratense
Reed Phragmites australis Invasive/Remove
Kentucky Bluegrass Poa pratense
Woodland Bluegrass Poa saltuensis
Black Cherry Prunus serotina
Wild Gooseberry Ribes missouriense
Black locust Robinia pseudoacacia Invasive/Remove
Multiflora Rose Rosa multiflora Invasive/Remove
Black Raspberry Rubus occidentalis
Curly Dock Rumex crispus
Clustered Black
Snakeroot Sanicula odorata
Common Carrion-Flower Smilax herbacea
Horse-Nettle Solanum carolinense
Canada Goldenrod Solidago canadensis Invasive/Remove
Panicled Aster Symphyotrichum lanceolatum
Dandelion Taraxicum officinale Introduced/naturalized
Siberian Elm Ulmus pumila Invasive/Remove
Stinging Nettle Urtica dioca
White Vervain Verbena urticifolia
Wild Grape Vitis riparia
25
Area 5
Common Name Scientific Name
Garlic Mustard Alliaria petiolata Invasive/Remove
Box Elder Acer negundo
Creeping Bent Agrostis stolonifera
Burdock Arctium minor Invasive/Remove
Tall Oatgrass Arrhenantherum elatius
Begger-Ticks Bidens sp.
Hairy Chess Bromus commutatus
Wood Sedge Carex blanda
Field Oval Sedge Carex molesta
Burr-Reed Sedge Carex sparganioides
Fox Sedge Carex vulpinodea
Hackberry Celtis occidentalis
Wood Reed-Grass Cinna arundinacea
Enchanter's Nightshade Circaea canadensis
Pasture Thistle Cirsium discolor
Asiatic Day-Flower Commelina communis Invasive/Remove
Honewort Cryptotaenia canadensis
Virginia Wild Rye Elymus virginicus
Daisy Fleabane Erigeron strigosus
Dame's rocket Hesperis matronalis Invasive/Remove
Rough Bedstraw Galium asprellum Introduced/naturalized
Honey Locust Gleditsia triacanthos
Fowl Manna Grass Glyceria striata
Stickseed Hackelia virginiana
Wood Nettle Laportea canadensis
Honeysuckle Lonicera x bella Invasive/Remove
Yellow Wood Sorrel Oxalis stricta
Water Pepper Persicaria hydropiperoides
Reed Canary Grass Phalaris arundinacea Invasive/Remove
Timothy Grass Phleum pratense
Common Reed Phragmites australis Invasive/Remove
Lopseed Phryma leptostachya
Clearweed Pilea pumila
Woodland Bluegrass Poa saltuensis
Cottonwood Populus deltoides
Common Buckthorn Rhamnus cathartica Invasive/Remove
Wild Gooseberry Ribes missouriense
Black locust Robinia pseudoacacia Invasive/Remove
Blackberry Rubus allegheniensis
Black Raspberry Rubus occidentalis
Curly Dock Rumex crispus Introduced/naturalized
Clustered Black
Snakeroot Sanicula odorata
26
Dark Green Bulrush Scipus atrovirens
Tall Goldenrod Solidago altissima
Calico Aster Symphyotrichum lateriflorum
Poison Ivy Toxicodendron radicans
Slippery Elm Ulmus rubra
Violet Viola sp.
Area 6
Common Name Scientific Name
Box Elder Acer negundo
White Snakeroot Ageratina altissima
Garlic Mustard Alliaria petiolata Invasive/Remove
Ragweed Ambrosia artemesiafolia Introduced/naturalized
Burdock Arctium minor Invasive/Remove
Smooth Brome Bromus inermis Introduced/naturalized
American Bellflower Campanula americana
Spreading Oval Sedge Carex normalis
Hackberry Celtis occidentalis
Honewort Cryptotaenia canadensis
Orchard Grass Dactylis glomerata Introduced/naturalized
Quack Grass Elymus repens Introduced/naturalized
Honey Locust Gleditsia triacanthos
Dame's Rocket Hesperis matronalis Invasive/Remove
Black Walnut Juglans nigra
Osage-Orange Maclura pomifera
Interrupted fern Osmunda claytoniana
Jumpseed Persicaria virginiana
Reed Canary Grass Phalaris arundinacea Invasive/Remove
Pokeweed Phytolacca americana
Black Cherry Prunus serotina
Black Snakeroot Sanicula sp.
Dandelion Taraxicum officinale Introduced/naturalized
Area 7
Common Name Scientific Name
Box Elder Acer negundo
Norway Maple Acer pseudoplatanus
Garlic Mustard Allaria petiolata Invasive/Remove
Wild ginger Asarum canadense
Japanese barberry Berberis thunbergii Invasive/Remove
Wood Sedge Carex blanda
Gray Sedge Carex grisea
27
Pretty Sedge Carex woodii
Shagbark Hickory Carya ovata
Hackberry Celtis occidentalis
Enchanter's Nightshade Circaea canadensis
Honewort Cryptotaenia canadensis
Wood Fern Dryopteris sp.
Spindletree Euonymus europeaus Invasive/Remove
Joe Pye Weed Eutrochium purpureum
Honey Locust Gleditsia triacanthos
Stickseed Hackelia virginiana
Dame's Rocket Hesperis matronalis Invasive/Remove
Black Walnut Juglans nigra
Henbit Lamium amblexicaule
Whitegrass Leersia virginica
Honeysuckle Lonicera x bella Invasive/Remove
Osage-Orange Maclura pomifera
Canada mayflower Maianthnemum canadense
Yellow Sweet Clover Melilotus officinalis Invasive/Remove
Mulberry Morus alba Invasive/Remove
Virginia Creeper Parthenocissus inserta
Water Pepper Persicaria hydropiperoides
Jumpseed Persicaria virginiana
Reed Canary Grass Phalaris arundinacea
Lopseed Phryma leptostachya
Clearweed Pilea pumila
Cottonwood Populus deltoides
Black Cherry Prunus serotina
Bur Oak Quercus macrocarpa
Common Buckthorn Rhamnus cathartica
Wild Gooseberry Ribes missouriense
Black locust Robinia pseudoacacia Invasive/Remove
Multiflora Rose Rosa multiflora Invasive/Remove
Elderberry Sambucus canadensis
Clustered Black Snakeroot Sanicula odorata
Bitter-sweet Nightshade Solanum dulcamara Invasive/Remove
Basswood Tillia americana
Poison Ivy Toxicodendron radicans
Perriwinkle Vinca minor Invasive/Remove
Wild Violet Viola sp.
Wild Grape Vitis riparia
28
Area 8
Common Name Scientific Name Notes
Box Elder Acer negundo
Norway Maple Acer pseudoplatanus
Garlic Mustard Allaria petiolata
Jack-in-the-Pulpit Arisaema triphylla
Wild ginger Asarum canadense
Japanese barberry Berberis thunbergii Invasive/Remove
Pretty Sedge Carex woodii
Shagbark Hickory Carya ovata
Hackberry Celtis occidentalis
Enchanter's Nightshade Circaea canadensis
Honewort Cryptotaenia canadensis
Wood Fern Dryopteris sp.
Spindletree Euonymus europeaus Invasive/Remove
Joe Pye Weed Eutrochium purpureum
Honey Locust Gleditsia triacanthos
Stickseed Hackelia virginiana
Dame's Rocket Hesperis matronalis Invasive/Remove
Whitegrass Leersia virginica
Honeysuckle Lonicera x bella Invasive/Remove
Osage-Orange Maclura pomifera
Yellow Sweet Clover Melilotus officinalis Invasive/Remove
Water Pepper Persicaria hydropiperoides
Norway Spruce Picea abies Introduced/naturalized
Clearweed Pilea pumila
Black Cherry Prunus serotina
Common Buckthorn Rhamnus cathartica Invasive/Remove
Wild Gooseberry Ribes missouriense
Black locust Robinia pseudoacacia Invasive/Remove
Multiflora Rose Rosa multiflora Invasive/Remove
Clustered Black Snakeroot Sanicula odorata
Basswood Tillia americana
Poison Ivy Toxicodendron radicans
Cattail Typha x glauca Invasive/Remove
Slippery Elm Ulmus rubra
Periwinkle Vinca minor Invasive/Remove
29
Hazard Tree Table
30
Marked Trees
Location Size Species Hazard Description Picture
Volunteer Park ~10 DBH Maple Low Eutypella canker, dying limb
Volunteer Park >14 DBH Maple Low Rotting high limb, over grass area
Volunteer Park >14 DBH Maple Low Rotting high limb, over gardens
Bicentennial Park ~12 DBH Mulberry High Hanging over grill area, dying lower limbs
Bicentennial Park ~10 DBH ?Medium Dead tree, no bark, on top of walking trail
Bicentennial Park ~12 DBH ?High Dead tree, no bark, hanging over walking trail
Bicentennial Park ~8 DBH Basswood?High Canopy broken off, near walking trail, many other broken branches nearby
Bicentennial Park >14 DBH Oak?High Large, completely dead, standing tree, near walking trail
Bicentennial Park >14 DBH White Oak Medium Dead branch, hanging over grass area on edge of park
Bicentennial Park/Rd >14 DBH White Oak High Hanging over road, dying branches
City Hall ~10 DBH Mulberry Medium Hanging towards parking lot, snapped/dying branch
City Hall ~12 DBH Ash?Medium Near telephone wires, dead tree
Peggy's Park ~8 DBH Cherry Low Dead branch, off side of bike path
Peggy's Park ~8 DBH Elm? (dead)Medium Dying branch, hanging over bike path
Northwest Woods ~12 DBH Maple Medium Canopy broken off, hanging towards walking trail
Northwest Woods ~10 DBH Ash?Medium Canopy broken off, hanging towards walking trail
Northwest Woods ~12 DBH Locust Medium Broken limbs and branches, hanging over water drainage
Northwest Woods ~8 DBH Maple Low Dead branches, hanging on walking trail
Northwest Woods ~10 DBH Maple Medium Broken canopy, hanging on walking trail
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