Board greenlights riparian plantings with Trout Unlimited and agrees to map Willingham Knowles grassland

On Aug. 1 the Charles Town Tree Board discussed two related habitat efforts: riparian buffer plantings along Evitts Run in partnership with Trout Unlimited, and steps to protect tall-grass habitat at Willingham Knowles.

Aaron said he, John and Riley met with Ryan from Trout Unlimited and that the organization will bring a crew to dig and plant native riparian species—swamp oaks, maples, sycamores and redbuds—at no cost, provided the board clears invasive species in advance.

"Part of that involves the removal of invasive species," Aaron said. "Their team will come in, they will dig the holes, they'll plant the trees, they'll do everything; it costs us nothing. Our job is that we have to clear out the invasive species." The board discussed timing for volunteer clearing and possible contractor support for larger removals.

Separately, board member Carla urged protecting tall-grass areas at Willingham Knowles, citing milkweed habitat and monarch declines. The chair asked Carla and staff to coordinate with Parks & Rec lead Liz Ricketts for an on-site visit to map areas the board should set aside from mowing and to consider seeding and buffer plantings.

Aaron tasked Carlo with producing a memo outlining recommended protections and maintenance for those grassland areas and said the board will schedule a site visit on a Monday in August (candidates: Aug. 12 or Aug. 19).

Next steps: organize volunteer invasive-removal events timed before Trout Unlimited’s fall planting, produce a memo on grassland protection, and conduct an on-site mapping visit with Parks & Rec staff.