By Scout Nelson
A woodland restoration project began during the pandemic as a simple effort to stay active outdoors. What started as a small activity soon grew into a meaningful conservation project that transformed a public woodland garden.
The area, located at a historic public park, includes both landscaped grounds and a natural woodland section. Over many years, the woodland received little maintenance, allowing invasive plants to spread and dominate the understory.
During the pandemic, an individual with forestry experience decided to begin removing invasive plants with the proper permits. The work required removing all plants by hand because power tools could not be used in the park. Family members joined to help, turning the long process into a steady restoration effort.
The first plants removed were common buckthorn and non-native bush honeysuckles; two species known to spread quickly and shade out native plants. Later, less common invasive species such as Japanese tree lilac, Amur cork tree, and European highbush cranberry were removed. All plants had to be cut manually and left on the ground to naturally decay.
While removing invasive plants, volunteers also cleared large amounts of trash. Along the way, they discovered small treasures such as toy metal pistols and colorful glass bottles buried under years of leaf litter. These findings added a sense of curiosity and history to the project.
Volunteer support expanded when Minnesota Master Naturalists hosted an event for National Public Lands Day in 2021. Teens and adults began visiting regularly, each contributing a few hours to support the ongoing restoration work. Their help strengthened the progress already underway.
As invasive plants disappeared, native woodland plants, mushrooms, insects, and wildlife began to return naturally. Volunteers also planted additional native species to help restore balance and improve habitat quality. The results were highly rewarding and showed that even small steps can make a large impact over time.
The message from the restoration leader is simple: just start. Even a small effort can begin with positive change. Anyone wanting to begin their own project can learn more by reviewing guides such as Making a Weed Management Plan and Prioritizing Invasive Plant Control.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-johnbraid
Categories: Minnesota, General