FRIENDS OF LATODAMI ENVIRONMENT EDUCATION CENTER

Latodami Riparian Restoration Project

The Latodami Environmental Education Center implemented a riparian restoration project to increase biodiversity and improve biological productivity. In addition to improving the local ecology, it is hoped that the project will increase public awareness of natural resource management and promote understanding of a riparian ecosystem.

By restoring an area to a healthy riparian ecosystem we hope to

· Stabilize the stream banks

· Provide increased energy for aquatic life

· Provide additional food and cover for terrestrial species

· Increase biological diversity

· Create an on-site example of riparian restoration.

The project area is located along the Nature Access Trail (formerly known as the Braille Trail). The trail is approximately four tenths of a mile and winds its way along the stream. This location is easily accessible to the public as it is open daily and takes about 20 minutes to walk. This highly utilized location will provide a working visual demonstration of how wise management and protection of riparian areas are in the best interest of all. The stream drains from upland forested land and into the Latodami Pond. Flow then continues into Marshall and North Park Lakes.

The local factors placing pressure upon biodiversity are encroachment of urbanization (as the human population of the area grows wetland and open areas are eliminated and wildlife is pushed into smaller and smaller areas) erosion, deer browsing; and spread of invasive exotic plant species.

Objectives of the project include the physical removal of exotic plant species and the revegetation of the area with native species to provide wildlife food, cover, and nest sites. A 3-year monitoring and maintenance plan will be continued to prevent aggressive reinfestation by invasive species and to ensure the health and survival of native plants.