Conservation
Managing a wildlife preserve requires constant vigilance and care. Invasive plant species are brought in via hikers’ shoes, vehicle tires, wind, birds and other wildlife, and water.
Two of the biggest invasive plant problems on the Preserve are periwinkle, Vinca major, and Geranium purpureum. Vinca is an aggressive perennial vine most commonly found in shaded riparian and disturbed areas. The plant is characterized by dark green, glossy, opposite leaves and attractive purple flowers that bloom in late spring. Archer Taylor Preserve is removing Vinca by hand-pulling in riparian areas and a combination of mowing and herbicide treatment in higher ground. Vinca spreads by arching stolons that root at the tips and by vigorous underground growth of stolons. When pulling Vinca by hand, it is essential to remove all of the underground stem fragments and bag or remove them from the site.
Geranium purpureum is an annual that has invaded the trails and moist shaded areas of the Archer Taylor Preserve. Given the opportunity, it could eventually dominate the forest ground cover, displacing native plants. It blooms from spring to fall. Each flower is capable of projecting seeds 15 to 20 feet away, and seeds stay viable in the soil for up to 6 years. Preserve volunteers are hand-pulling the plants at the edges of the population and along roads and trails where seeds may be picked up and spread.
A team of volunteers meets the second Saturday of each month to work on these and other Preserve management projects. If you would like to join them, contact Ann Taylor Schwing at aschwing@mhalaw.com at least 24 hours in advance.
The Land Trust Web site