JK Black Oak’s western meadow has seen its share of neglect in the past years. This year we are focusing on restoring it to a native wildflower meadow. It will be a multi-step process using different approaches including removing invasives, solarization, bush hogging and planting natives. One of the first steps is to remove invasive shrubs like the Autumn Olive and downed trees.

Our first work day for 2024 was scheduled for April 6, but was postponed due to standing water in the parking lot and work area. On April 20, nine volunteers worked on clearing a section of the meadow. There was plenty of work to be done. The result was a strip of meadow devoid of plants and just a few stumps. Once the stumps have been removed, we will solarize this area.

Another part of the western meadow was overgrown by Multi-flora Rose and other unwanted shrubs. The shrubs were removed, and a rotary cutter was used to clear the area — a good start. Once the ground is drier, we will remove a couple very large clumps of Common Blackberry bushes. Although they are native, if they are not controlled, they can overtake large areas of the meadow in a couple years.

To protect the environmentally sensitive habitat and rare species, JK Black Oak Wildlife Sanctuary is not open for general public access.

Volunteer removing wood and vines from the western meadow (left). Part of the cleared western meadow (right).
Photos by Callie McCormick

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