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Commission hears Southwood Nature Preserve plan to tackle buckthorn and invasive species
Summary
Public works director Ron Richie presented a horticulturist’s maintenance plan to address a buckthorn takeover at Southwood Nature Preserve, proposing targeted removal, community volunteer days, and consultations with prairie restoration contractors; $6,500–$7,000 is budgeted for initial maintenance.
Ron Richie, the city’s public works director, presented a maintenance plan for Southwood Nature Preserve developed by the city horticulturist and discussed next steps to address invasive species and trail safety.
"The buckthorn has taken over most of the park," Richie said, calling buckthorn the first priority for treatment and removal. He said the horticulturist walked the park multiple times, revised maps and project goals, and recommended a mix of targeted chemical treatments, manual removal, and prescribed burns when conditions allow.
The plan lists project goals that include fire-hazard reduction, invasive-species removal, trail maintenance and clearing overhanging trees, and community engagement events for volunteer removal efforts. Richie said he will consult Prairie Restorations and Minnesota Native Landscapes for pricing and technical advice.
Richie noted a line-item budget of roughly $6,500–$7,000 identified for Southwood maintenance that had been moved out of the general park maintenance budget. "I think it's $6,500 or $7,000," he said, adding that larger capital improvements would require council discussion.
Commissioners asked about the timeline for removing dead trees near trails and whether neighbors would be notified before prescribed burns. Richie said notifications would be sent and described operational constraints: tree removal is often scheduled when the ground is frozen to avoid trail damage, and prescribed burns have a narrow seasonal window and may not be feasible every year.
Commissioners praised the plan and emphasized incorporating community volunteers and clear trail signage. One commissioner suggested low-cost interpretive or directional signs to help visitors navigate the park and identify species.
The commission did not take a formal vote on policy at the meeting; staff said they will meet with contractors and return with cost estimates and a proposed timetable. The commission encouraged staff to keep them informed as plans and contractor proposals develop.
