The Thoma Preserve Capstone Project
Posted in Categories Preserves & Trails, Stew Crew, Stewardship
Significant progress is underway at CLCF’s Thoma Preserve as part of the ongoing Capstone Project, which aims to manage invasive species on the property. Since 2023, dedicated efforts have been underway to control these species, with Thoma Preserve chosen for this project due to its manageable level of invasives. This property was also selected for its value as a recreational space featuring public trails, with these efforts benefiting the environment and the community.
CLCF acquired the prairie section of the Thoma Preserve from Washington County in 2018, with the wooded parcel to the north purchased in 2020 from the Felker family. Together, these ecosystems support a diverse range of plant and animal species, each playing an important role in the health of the preserve.
The prairie is home to goldenrod, hickory, and various native grasses, providing essential habitat for pollinators and other wildlife. Meanwhile, the woods feature red pine and white spruce, with plentiful jack-in-the-pulpit in the understory. The Thoma woods provide habitat for a variety of creatures, such as foxes, barred owls, and a multitude of bird species.
Like any ecosystem in the modern era, it has not remained untouched by the influence of people. Invasive species have made their way to these ecological communities, displacing the native species and altering this habitat. Garlic mustard and Dames Rocket are notorious in the spring, crowding out native plants from the understory. If left alone, these invasive species have the potential to reduce biodiversity and obstruct the growth of important native species.
To tackle these invasive species at the Thoma Preserve, CLCF has implemented active management strategies. Buckthorn removal has been a year-round effort, with continuous cutting and treatment to open the understory for native regeneration. CLCF’s Stew Crew continues to remove woody invasive species from the prairie, and garlic mustard and Dame’s rocket from the woods. This is followed by the controlled chipping and burning of the brush piles.
None of this would be possible without the dedication of our incredible volunteers. Their time and effort contribute greatly to preserving the long-term health of the property.
We encourage you to visit the Thoma Preserve! For more information and to find trail maps, visit theclcf.org/preserves. We hope to see you on the trails soon!
