Volunteers Help Improve Local Nature Preserves
We are seeking volunteers to assist throughout the year at our nature preserves to help improve these places for their natural benefits and the enjoyment of community members.
At The Gully Preserve, we are working to remove a section of the invasive vinca minor, a ground cover that prevents normal diversity and forest regeneration. Efforts will continue this year to help stop the spread and shrink this infestation so native plants that provide healthier habitat can be established.
Invasive removals are prioritized based on the infestation size and the damage they cause to ensure our efforts have meaningful impact.
Some invasive species spread easily. These plants are carefully bagged and removed so they can be solarized before being disposed of to ensure they do not spread.
At Indian Fort Nature Preserve, we continue to make improvements to the trail network, establishing new trails that will require less maintenance and will be less muddy for hikers.
We will be closing off a few trail segments this year, now that better alternatives exist.
We also continue to make aggressive efforts to remove invasive species in this forest to help stop the spread and reduce the impact of these plants.
Planting native species is also taking place, helping us replace the ash trees dying off as a result of emerald ash borer with a healthy and diverse habitat for wildlife.
Trail blazes are being added across all of our nature preserves to create a consistent look for hikers and to provide trail names that correspond to paper and online maps.
Groups and individuals can help us keep nature preserves open to the public and improve their benefit to local wildlife by attending a one time volunteer day or offering to be on our list of frequent helpers.
Tasks will vary throughout the season: trail work, regular maintenance, painting kiosks and signage, removing invasive species, planting natives. There is plenty to do and we would love your help or your groups help!
To offer your help, reach out to Molly at 585-243-2190 or
steward@geneseevalleyconservancy.org
Invasive species can limit biodiversity, preventing more useful native plants that local wildlife utilize for food and shelter. Removal efforts prioritize the worst offenders.