Northeast Sector Project Goal #2
Goal 2: Reduce invasive plant species and increase native species diversity within the Reservation
Vegetation Management
In order to increase the health of the ecosystem within the Reservation, we strive for species diversity such as would be found in the natural environment. Native species allow for natural ecosystem functioning, which gives us cleaner air and water, stable hillsides and banks, and maximization of native animal species.
We have been taking down invasive species of trees and removing them from the area. These trees will be replaced with native species over the course of the next year. Previously, most of the understory plants in the Northeast Sector were invasive: they were able to out compete native plants and take over the understory. Removal of invasive species has begun, and efforts to control their return will continue in the future. In place of the invasive species, seeds, bushes, saplings, and larger trees are being planted. While these plants are establishing, we will need to all work together as a community to keep out of these areas so as to not disturb the new life that is growing there.
Wildlife Habitat Management
The creation of the butterfly meadow in the area below Neville Place will create a habitat for butterflies and other native pollinators, so that the native plants might use their services once more. The Butterfly Meadow's location allows for easy access by the residents of Neville Place, students at the Maynard Ecology Center, and users of the Perimeter Road.
With the increased biodiversity created through the removal of invasive species and the planting of natives, we hope to invite a greater variety of birds to Fresh Pond Reservation. The wet meadow and the higher areas of Lusitania Meadow will act as perfect bird habitat, and will create areas from which visitors might observe them.