*These dates are a rough estimate - we'll fine tune as we get closer!*
This spring we'll be looking to plant tree saplings at a new property near Trempealeau, WI to supplement a planting done last spring. Unfortunately our tree planting dates can be a little last minute to firm up, as we're dependent on the weather and often don't get a ton of notice with when the nursery will be able to deliver them, but please let us know if you might be interested in helping and we'll do our best to get the word out as soon as possible!
We'll also have some tree planting opportunities this fall near La Crescent, MN!
What we're doing:
- we'll be planting several hundred small bare root tree seedlings to restore a former agricultural field to species-rich forest habitat
- we'll have a few folks carry tree bags with the seedlings inside (think side saddle bags you can like a backpack)
- we'll use dibble bars (narrow bladed rectangular tool) to make a hole to put the seedlings in
- bending and kneeling to plant the seedlings
- the ground may be uneven in places and we could walk more than a mile as we plant
- to protect our investment of time and money from the hungry mammals of the Refuge, we will be installing thin-walled tree tubes on every tree seedling
- rolling and attaching tree tubes
What to bring/what to wear: The ground could be a little damp if we get some rain, please wear clothes you don't mind getting a bit dirty. The soils on this site are very sandy, so it won’t get too sloppy. Closed toed shoes are required and boots that come up to or over your ankle are recommended for better stability. Please wear long pants. With our weather lately, it could be steamy out - a sunhat and sunscreen is also recommended. Please bring drinking water and a snack if you'd like one- we'll have some extra bottles of water to share too and some baked goods! We will have work gloves for folks to use and they will be yours to take home if you'd like or you're welcome to bring a pair if you have a favorite. All tools will be provided.
Why: Come visit one of our newest land acquisitions in a really neat space! Come listen to our Forest Ecologist discuss forest restoration and the considerations of restoring forest from former agricultural lands. He will talk about our habitat management process and how our actions here will benefit refuge priority species of concern. This tract connects floodplain forest and upland forest habitat in the Black River Bottoms and backs up to the Great River State bike trail. It's awesome habitat for waterfowl, songbirds, cavity-nesting birds, game species, turtles, and more! Tree planting is amazing in that you can immediately see the results of your efforts! We hope to add a public parking lot to this site in the future so you can come back and watch this place grow!
