Since our last update, the Woods Creek Restoration Project has made significant progress, with the tree removal contractor actively clearing trees and brush across the site. We’ve received several questions about why this removal is necessary, so we’d like to take this opportunity to address them in this construction update. The trees and brush being removed as part of this project are being cleared for one or more of the following reasons:
They are invasive species that do not belong in this ecosystem. Allowing invasive species to continue to grow on the project site would be detrimental to the health of the native plantings planned for the restoration.
They are located in an area that needs to be graded to repair erosion and/or restore storm water conveyance.
They are within an access path needed so that equipment can enter the site to construct this project.
They are in poor health or has structural issues that could be hazardous.
After the tree removal and grading work have been completed, all disturbed areas will be restored with a diverse mix of wetland and prairie species native to Illinois. Additionally, more than 50 native trees, including a variety of oak, hackberry, and sycamore, will be planted throughout the project site.
