The Mt. Pisgah area must have
been quite different when the first settlers arrived. So many
non-native plants have been introduced since then that we can
only guess how things really looked. Areas that were extensively
grazed or logged are in the worst shape, but there are places
in the park that are relatively undisturbed.
Much of FBP's efforts to help
restore native varieties involves removing invasive exotic plants.
For several years small groups of FBP volunteers have waged war
on Scotch Broom and Blackberry, the two worst invasives. Other
exotics, like Canadian Thistle and Teasle, are also attacked.
Plant restoration volunteers survey areas containing valuable
habitat that is being threatened then work to halt the spread
of invasives. We are trying to increase our efforts to halt the
destruction of so much beautiful park land and schedule regular
work parties to remove exotics. Dave Preedek, 345-5531, is currently
organizing these activities.
Before you can restore native varieties you need to know what should be there. FBP volunteers, working with local botanists, are working on an inventory of species in the HBRA. In addition, signifigant areas with native populations are also being cataloged. Efforts are also underway to collect some native seed. We hope that these can be propagated and create a supply for replanting in the park. Dave Preedek has been coordinating these actvities.
The HBRA is home to one federally listed endangered plant species, Bradshaw's Lomatium ( Lomatium bradshawii). FBP plant restoration volunteers have been important in identifying L. bradshawii populations and working to preserve them. We have advocated management plans to Lane County Parks and remain involved in protecting this endangered species. Recently our botanists were authorized to develop and submit a managment plan to LCP. This plan has been accepted by LCP and includes the possibility of mowing and/or proscribed burns to encourage L. bradshawii regeneration. John Koenig, 343-0707 is organizing and developing this project
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