Riparian Buckthorn Removal

This project will improve the native plant communities in the riparian corridor of Lester River, and improve aquatic habitat. Work will occur within easements on the Lester River and tributaries within the watershed. Lester River is a designated Trout stream of high quality. Our objective is to control invasive species, primarily buckthorn, but also Japanese barberry, and bush honeysuckle, and replace them with native species. The health of trout streams is closely tied to forest health, and these invasive species are very detrimental to forest health. Native plants provide much greater ecosystem benefits, including shade which moderates water temperature, coarse woody debris for habitat structure, and quality nutrients, in the form of plant material and healthy insect populations. We will use a variety of methods to control these plants, based on the suitability of the individual sites, and we will replant native trees and shrubs, based on the conditions of each site. We will hire contractors to do the bulk of the removal, and work with partners to provide necessary training for contractors and landowners to ensure the removal is through and native plants aren?t accidentally removed. Their proximity to trout streams make these high priority sites. Much has been invested in securing the protection of these sites, and this project ensures that that money and effort does not go to waste.