Oak Savanna and Pollinator Planting

Quarry Park and Nature Preserve wanted to improve the oak savanna and rock outcrop habitat at the Park. They wanted to do this by removing invasive species and completing a native seeding into the existing vegetation to improve species diversity.

The project included using a brush mower to remove the invasive species, Buckthorn, and open up the canopy for sunlight to reach the ground for when the native grasses and forbs were seeded. The project also included herbicide treatments and a prescribed burn on the site to help manage and kill the small buckthorn. Native seed was drilled into the site and ultimately 6.75 acres of oak savanna habitat was restored. This project helped improve habitat on the rock outcrop for unique species and helped increase the amount and diversity of wildflowers for pollinators.

This project is funded through 2026 to complete the vegetation establishment maintenance. Practice: 341 - Critical Area Planting.

Components:

• Mowing

• Brush mowing

• Buckthorn removal

• Herbicide treatment

• Prescribed burn

Benefits:

• Invasive species removal

• Improved habitat for species

• Increased diversity of wildflowers for pollinators

Partners on this project included the Stearns CD, Stearns County Parks Department, and the Clean Water Land and Legacy Amendment.