So long, shrubs! – Part 2

The Carden Alvar is an outstanding example of globally-threatened alvar habitat which is characterized by thin soils over limestone bedrock. The Carden Alvar NA has been identified as a key biodiversity area within the Great Lakes and is identified in both the terrestrial and aquatic Great Lakes Conservation Blueprints:  terrestrial because it contains a provincially significant Life Science Area of Natural and Scientific Interest and globally rare alvar communities; aquatic because of the high amount of natural cover associated with its wetlands and head water stream segments. The Carden Alvar’s grasslands, shrublands, forests and wetlands are home to 450 plant species, 142 butterfly and dragonfly species, 5 turtle species, 7 snake species, 15 amphibian species and a remarkable 238 bird species.

We will hike 2 km through scenic alvar to and from the work-site with equipment and all personal items. Using hand saws and loppers we will remove woody vegetation from the site and pile them in designated areas. By removing shrubs, we will help to maintain the open conditions that many alvar and grassland specialist species require.

Spend the day on the alvar surrounded by birdsong and the hum of grassland insects! By removing shrubs from alvar habitat, we will be mimicking natural processes such as fire to improve the habitat for grassland birds such as loggerhead shrike.

Contact Brittany Hope: Brittany.hope@natureconservancy.ca