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Selective tree cutting and grass mowing took place at the end of June. The purpose: to halt the spread of the forest into the meadows. This will help KSA maintain vital winter habitat for threatened and endangered species. These actions are part of a multi-year effort to implement Audubon Society recommendations for meadow management.
By doing this work in June, the grass should have time to regrow before the southward migration in the fall. For the time being though, the meadow will not look like the tall grass prairie most visitors have become accustomed to.
Chinese tallow trees, sometimes called Florida aspen, are an invasive species that crowd out native plants and actually poison animals. KSA is also attempting to remove these trees from the park. Tallow remediation efforts in 2008 will concentrate on two areas: 1) between the South Loop Trail and Otter Point and 2) between the power lines and Eagle Point.
A contract for tallow removal has been issued by KSA. The best time for treating tallow is in the fall. Work should begin in October, weather permitting.
The crushed granite trails will support mountain bikes. However, sudden stops and skids damage trails. The ruts left behind funnel rainwater which accelerates trail erosion over time. So please avoid leaving skidmarks.
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