Habitat Restoration Project Underway
An exciting habitat restoration project is happening at Ipswich River! Thanks to the generosity of one of our donors, we're working to expand our meadows and connect the south and west fields.
The end result will be a larger, contiguous field that will attract more Tree Swallows and grassland species like American Kestrels and Bobolinks.
First Phase
Previously, the south and west fields were separated by two trails—the Bunker Meadows Trail and the Ipswich River Trail—as well as a wide strip of non-native, invasive plant species including Asian bittersweet, buckthorn, and winged euonymus.
We hired Lake Shore Excavation, who worked closely with the sanctuary's property team, to remove the vegetation. All the non-native species were either burned onsite or hauled off to an incinerator. This is a necessary step to ensure these invasive plants do not spread elsewhere.
Second Phase
In the spring we'll install new landscape around the Nature Play Area using native shrubs that are highly beneficial to pollinators and birds.
We'll also be seeding the new open area with native grasses and herbaceous flowering plants to provide better habitat for birds and other wildlife.
The top section of the Ipswich River Trail will be closed. Visitors will be able to use the Bunker Meadow Trail instead, which is bordered by a lovely rock wall.
We can't wait to share this brand-new space with you!
Artwork © Doreen Bolnick (click here for larger image)