At the last Parks Commission Board meeting, ACCA obtained approval for more habitat improvements at the barrier spit. On the northeastern slope, next to the Blue Star Garden, we will be removing invasive weeds and performing landscaping in preparation for the planting of native shrubs. The shrubs will include: Rosa Carolina and Red Osier Dogwood, Northern Bayberry, Inkberry, and Beach Plum. A split rail fence, matching the one at the Preserve, will be installed to protect the plants from trampling and create an entrance to the area.
Temporary roped off areas will protect several nesting species, including horseshoe crabs, during their egg incubation periods, so that the eggs will not be trampled by foot traffic.
This project is being funded by a $7,500 grant from the Frank X. & Mary E. Weny Charitable Trust. We also want to thank ACCA Board members Rick Landau, Diane Vulcano, Maxine Greenberg, & Kraig Steffen as well as ACCA members Kate Spain, Pete Spain, Jen Groves, and Roger Ludwig for planning and overseeing this project.
We will also be seeding the eastern portion of the Preserve with native grasses as part of our ongoing weed mitigation effort.