Fall Stewardship Events Planned at Middle Patuxent Environmental Area
The Middle Patuxent Environmental Area (MPEA), adjacent to the Village of River Hill, encompasses 1,021 acres of “forever protected” natural habitat. The area contains a diversity of habitat types, including upland and bottomland hardwood forests, fields, wetlands, ponds and riparian habitats, with the Middle Patuxent River running north to south through the property. As the largest area in Howard County’s system of parks and open space, the MPEA is home to a wide range of wildlife, including birds, mammals, amphibians, reptiles, fish and butterflies, as well as a variety of plants and other species. Visitors may access the park at 5795 Trotter Road, Clarksville.
The MPEA Conservation Stewardship Project (CSP) addresses invasive, non-native plant species in the environmental area. Invasive plants reduce native floral diversity by competing for sunlight, resources and space. They offer poorer-quality or insufficient food and habitat for native wildlife. They may also increase soil erosion, reduce water quality or present a nuisance to visitors.
Conservation Stewardship Project events help combat this problem through the removal of invasive plants and restoration with ecologically appropriate species. Each event also includes an educational component concerning the target species or area. Several events are planned for this fall. Registration is required, but no experience is necessary. Service hours are available. A guardian must be present for students ages 13 to 17.
Shelter Clearing & Tree Planting Oct. 6, 9–11:30 a.m. Volunteers will remove vines and vinelike plants from habitat restoration areas, freeing young trees and shrubs from the threat of smothering. Duties will include hand-pulling, digging, cutting and bagging mile-a-minute, Japanese honeysuckle and other non-native invasive species. If time and conditions permit, new native trees and shrubs will be planted.
Autumn Olive Removal Oct. 20 and Nov. 3, 9–11:30 a.m. Autumn olive shrubs are an unwelcome but plentiful remnant of the game farm that once existed on this land. They are relentless invaders requiring a variety of control methods over several years. This event will build on progress made on several acres. Volunteers will cut back the shrubs using hand saws, loppers or pruners to provide room for park staff to return and perform subsequent treatment. Japanese barberry shrubs may also be dug up and left to dry out.
For more information and to register, visit www.howardcountymd.gov/mpea.
Middle Patuxent Environmental Foundation Seeks New Trustees
The Middle Patuxent Environmental Foundation (MPEF) is seeking two to three new trustees to join its board. Individuals with science backgrounds—including scientists, science teachers, researchers and master naturalists—are strongly encouraged to apply, although all interested Howard County residents are welcome. Terms run three years.
The foundation partners with the Howard County Department of Recreation and Parks to support the MPEA, which is dedicated to conservation, restoration of native species and environmental education. The Board of Trustees includes up to 11 members representing a range of specialties that help guide oversight of the county’s management of the MPEA.
To apply or learn more, contact melissakmccormick@gmail.com.
