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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 16 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. 20 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 21 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 https://www.dropbox.com/s/vg34fwfbtgrky1t/p%20%2861%29.jpeg?dl=0 https://www.dropbox.com/s/gfg06an0h7c7qcf/p%20%2850%29.jpeg?dl=0 https://www.dropbox.com/s/kldrl9rlj9vpc10/p%20%2851%29.jpeg?dl=0 https://www.dropbox.com/s/k390i9i4g7ul0je/Photo%20Aug%2028%2C%201%2005%2031%20PM.jpg?dl=0 https://www.dropbox.com/s/9boeofnf656ickz/p%20%2825%29.jpeg?dl=0 https://www.dropbox.com/s/3502j9x355k4pda/p%20%2828%29.jpeg?dl=0 https://www.dropbox.com/s/4mmj4cke2d1qg8u/p%20%2858%29.jpeg?dl=0 https://www.dropbox.com/s/taje97mzda6kkz6/p%20%2832%29.jpeg?dl=0 https://www.dropbox.com/s/r6ty6qofqwon3q9/Photo%20Aug%2028%2C%201%2000%2010%20PM.jpg?dl=0 https://www.dropbox.com/s/8pe8k0gblnoouzv/p%20%289%29.jpeg?dl=0 https://www.dropbox.com/s/cti89exeiqddaaz/p%20%288%29.jpeg?dl=0 https://www.dropbox.com/s/opiqkabbsawdkz1/p%20%287%29.jpeg?dl=0 https://www.dropbox.com/s/pya4qrt41mli5rv/p%20%2815%29.jpeg?dl=0 https://www.dropbox.com/s/f5vzousxtn9cc1u/p%20%2814%29.jpeg?dl=0 https://www.dropbox.com/s/gwu2ptjywxhqkl8/p%20%2820%29.jpeg?dl=0 https://www.dropbox.com/s/2vkrpln7jj6vgp1/p%20%2835%29.jpeg?dl=0 https://www.dropbox.com/s/vp7qlyu8o74fnk3/p%20%2836%29.jpeg?dl=0 https://www.dropbox.com/s/tizl3f3p61hjpqt/p%20%2842%29.jpeg?dl=0 https://www.dropbox.com/s/pac731f98jlamew/p%20%2845%29.jpeg?dl=0 https://www.dropbox.com/s/lgpcmpo1yvrg5es/p%20%2846%29.jpeg?dl=0 https://www.dropbox.com/s/rq155q7q3l2n1v9/p%20%2847%29.jpeg?dl=0 https://www.dropbox.com/s/d08zyhtk83j3x8v/p%20%2848%29.jpeg?dl=0 https://www.dropbox.com/s/aumhf62cjs1vn9w/p%20%2849%29.jpeg?dl=0