Invasives Map
Forest Edges
Most of the forest edges contain a large number of invasive trees and vines. Braxton and Richard started clearing these in mid August and anticipate completion of the initial cutting by early October. We will resurvey and do repeat clearings every 6 months for the next 2-3 years.
Fields
The fields in areas 8, 10 and along the creek in area 13, were 60-90% invasives.
We are commited to not using herbicidals, so our plan is to mow the highly infested fields every 4-6 weeks from June-Oct for the next couple years, and allow native seedling trees that have taken root in the fields (mostly sycamores, tulip poplars, and persimmons), and Keystone & Beneficial plants to grow. We are currently researching additional natural methods to assist native plants in outcompeting the invasives.
Following are representative pictures of the fields prior to our first mowing.
Microstegium vimeneum (Japanese Stilt-grass)
Lespedeza cuneata (Chinese Bushclover)
Lespedeza Bicolor (Shrubby Lespedeza)
The fields in areas 7, 10, 12, and the upper field in area 13, are in much better condition. The plan in those areas is to do intensive grazing, primarily with goats, (and to a lesser degree with horses, cattle and hogs), with intermittent mowing as needed to control the scattered invasives. We will also be preserving any Keystone & Beneficial trees and plants in these fields.
RavenRidge Family Farm 