Proposed project:
- We will plant understory vegetation across approximately 200 acres of former non-native rye-grass
fields. These areas were previously planted with native overstory trees between 2006 and 2010.
Swales adjacent to these fields will be planted in a separate project beginning fall 2016.
- This project will add understory complexity to the forest, consistent with the goals of the Green Island
Management Plan, page 59.
The project will contribute to the goal of “Floodplain forest expansion, restoration and/or enhancement”
through the following activities, identified in the Green Island management plan:
- Re-establish a diversity of native vegetation communities on agricultural lands and other disturbed
areas. Riparian forest, which mimics the historic condition, will be the primary target habitat.
- Establish a dense native grass cover crop on agricultural lands as they are phased-out of production
and on disturbed areas to help limit weed establishment and prevent erosion.
- Plant a diversity of native riparian tree species, introduce a variety of native riparian understory
species to the riparian forest. Riparian understory planting will be done in clusters to allow for easy
irrigation and follow-up maintenance and monitoring.
Permits:
- Cultural resources surveys and Notification of Compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic
Preservation Act (NHPA) were obtained for the property from 2007 to 2011.
- BPA has approved prior plans for Green Island riparian planting, and approval will be obtained for
this north understory planting prior to implementation.
- Lane County land use approvals will also be obtained.
Community outreach:
- The Green Island Project provides ample opportunities for community outreach around floodplain
conservation.
- The ease of access, large area, and diversity of habitat conditions and restoration stages offer
opportunities for school groups, researchers, and the general public throughout the year.
- Annually in June, the Trust hosts a one day Living River Celebration, which attracts nearly 1,000
visitors who participate in natural history tours and independent exploration.
Implementing partners:
- The project will be primarily undertaken by MRT staff with consultant support.
- Volunteer programs already working on the property, such as local businesses, University of Oregon
Environmental Leadership Program students, and Springfield middle school students, may be engaged
for some tree planting and maintenance of the projects on the north.