Devastated by the 1974 tornado, impacted by construction of I-64, suffering from the stress of increased use, and under attack from invasive species and erosion Cherokee and Seneca Parks’ wooded areas have been in a steady decline for over 30 years.
Through tremendous support from our community we have raised funds towards the Woodlands Restoration project that is helping save our woodlands. Although we have funding we still need help from volunteers to help us rid the parks of these invasive plants. Like a garden, the woodlands need proper care or they will die so consider volunteering. Check out our Volunteer page for information on how to sign up and help.
The Plan to Save Park Woodlands
Since beginning the restoration efforts in 2006, to date we have accomplished much:
- Removed Bush Honeysuckle from approximately 90% of the woodland acreage in Cherokee Park as well as 90% in Seneca Park. Removal of Bush Honeysuckle and other exotic invasive plants allows native species of trees, shrubs, and wildflowers to flourish.
- Planted thousands of native trees and shrubs to restore native ecosystem form and function.
- Modify the existing trail system to be more sustainable under a variety of uses including hiking, running, and mountain biking.
- Developed a passionate volunteer force who has donated thousands of hours a year in labor removing invasive plants, planting native vegetation, and building sustainable trails.
More Work Ahead
Although we have made progress in restoring the parks much, work remains:
- Continue removing exotic invasive vegetation from Cherokee and Seneca Parks.
- Begin restoration of recently cleared areas in Cherokee and Seneca Parks by planting pioneer tree and shrub species.
- Continue monitoring previously cleared areas for new invasions of exotic plants.
- Stabilize erosion from storm water runoff.
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