Wild Ones Twin Cities Minnesota

Tuesday, September 19, 2017

6:45 pm-7:00 pm | Social
7:00 pm-8:45 pm | Program
Wood Lake Nature Center
6710 Lake Shore Dr S, Richfield, MN 55423
All meetings are free and open to the public.

CONSERVATION STRATEGIES FOR NATIVE 'BIG WOODS' FOREST PLANT COMMUNITIES

Dr. Lee E. Frelich

Director, The University of Minnesota Center for Forest Ecology

Understory plant communities in Big Woods (maple, basswood and oak) forests were historically lush with high species richness. In recent decades, these plant communities have become highly degraded by high deer populations, invasive earthworms and invasive plants. Slow growth rates of native plants due to low light levels in even-aged forests and lack of seed sources are further complications. Although some species probably cannot tolerate the presence of European earthworms and may require special conservation strategies, restoration of lush native plant communities is possible and strategies for doing so will be discussed.

Empty understory in Partch Woods Scientific and Natural Area.

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Join us for a tour with Douglas Owens-Pike at Otter Creek Ridge!

Since 2010, Douglas and Suzanne Owens-Pike have been creating a unique sustainable home at their 80-acre retreat in Wisconsin, 90 minutes due east of Minneapolis. Their innovative, net-zero house is designed to produce all the energy they need, to require the least possible maintenance, and to reflect their intention to live in harmony with other animals who share the land.

Starting with this initial pilot session, Days with Douglas will be a series of visits to Otter Creek Ridge, to learn about his vision and values, the specialized passive solar design of their homestead (including his “Greenawnings” ™), the plantings, raingardens, paths, labyrinth, and the spiritual and philosophical aspects of their adventure and commitment at Otter Creek. Future Days with Douglas will explore these themes in greater detail and provide opportunities for visitors to help Douglas and Suzanne achieve their vision during workdays, focus groups, strolls and conversations.

Join us on this introductory Day with Douglas, as he guides visitors on a personalized tour and explains the decisions he is making to honor, shape and manage the land in ways that are consistent with living collaboratively with Nature. Anyone interested in sustainable living and native landscapes is welcome!

Bring your lunch and stay for as long as you like! Enjoy the woods, the house and gardens, and more. Bathe in the forest and walk the labyrinth as you learn about renewable energy and sustainable living.

Please RSVP at the Facebook event.

For more information and for directions to the Otter Creek homestead, post on the Facebook event or send an email to Douglas@EnergyScapes.com