Greetings Friends of the Prairie,
A few Januarys back, we had fruit trees blossoming and the sounds of spring peeper frogs! A month and a half into this year, and we have had snow storms, ice bergs, and minus 50 wind chills. We must accept there is no more “usual weather” and that changes to come will affect many aspects of Prairie life. We have already seen both native and invasive plants blooming earlier than in past years. Hopefully, both the Prairie and all those who care for it will be able to adapt in the future.
CHIWAUKEE WEST
The area west of the railroad and east of Sheridan Road between 116th Street and 128th Street is now called Chiwaukee West. The approximately 150 acres was purchased by the Nature Conservancy over the past few years and is now undergoing restoration efforts. These include ongoing removal of invasive trees and brush, followed by removal of extensive drain tile systems and then native seeding. Most importantly, in addition to creating habitat for grassland and wetland birds, the entire project will protect the ground water under the original Chiwaukee Prairie to the east.
SPRING INTO GARDENING
The annual conference is on Saturday, March 9 at the Westosha Central High School in Paddock Lake. CPPF will have an information table next to our friends from the Root River Chapter of Wild Ones so that together we can tell folks about the importance of natural areas and native plants. For more information, click here.
FUND RAISING MATCH
Generous supporters have pledged a dollar-for-dollar match of all donations received from individuals by February 15, 2019. THAT’S THIS FRIDAY!!! PLEASE DONATE NOW.
More information at www.chiwaukee.org/donate
(Chiwaukee Prairie Preservation Fund, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization.)
RARE PLANT MONITORING TRAINING
Unfortunately, the class in this area is already full. While the training is a recommended prerequisite, there still will be many opportunities to assist in the monitoring of rare and endangered plants at Chiwaukee Prairie. Later in the Spring, this Monthly Update will provide information on how to participate in the Monitoring Program.
INVASIVE SPECIES AWARENESS WEEK February 26 TO March 6
Garlic Mustard, Dame’s Rocket, Lion’s Tooth, Hawk Weed, Common St. John’s-wort, Phragmites, Purple Loosestrife, Black Swallow-wort, Queen Anne’s Lace, Hairy Willow Herb, Ox-eye Daisy, Bouncing Bet, Sow Thistle, Reed Canary Grass, Narrow-leaved Cattail, Canada Thistle, Crown Vetch, Japanese Knotweed, Chicory, and, of course, Buckthorn. There are several dozen more in Chiwaukee, but these are top of mind. As the growing season proceeds, we will have photos.
WORKDAYS
Our January workday was cancelled due to high winds and a heavy snow. This Saturday, February 16, we again will be working in the area just north of the Cottage doing brush cutting, herbiciding and hauling. The prediction is for cloudy skies with NNE winds at 10 mph and a high of 25 degrees. Dress warmly in layers. We supply work gloves, tools, instruction, water and answers to all your questions about the Prairie.
The workday is from 10 AM – 1 PM. Come for part or all of it.
PLEASE NOTE:
We will meet at the Chiwaukee Cottage at 204 -102nd Street
Please park on the south side of 102nd Street.
Lunch at the Cottage after the workday for the volunteers!
Workday cancellations will be posted on our website and Facebook by 8 AM on scheduled workdays. If you are unsure whether a workday will take place, please use good judgment when deciding whether to attend.
(Map of the vicinity at www.chiwaukee.org/about/where/)
If you have questions, email volunteer@chiwaukee.org or call 773-515-2772.
Thank you for your support,
Chiwaukee Prairie Preservation Fund, Inc.