Danada Woods HOA
This project at Danada Woods in Naperville, IL, entails the conversion of turf grass to native vegetation in order to stabilize an eroding shoreline. In order to make this project more affordable, the installation was distributed over a three-year period. Prior to installation the pond had a low, flat bottom that held six inches of water. The vegetation was mostly invasive species.
In 2004, herbicide was applied to the existing vegetation to reduce competition in the area to be planted. A twelve-foot wide strip from the shoreline and the swale on the western end of the pond were then seeded with native seed using a no-till drill. This ensures minimal disturbance to the soil so the invasive species don’t establish themselves as readily. 3200 live plugs were installed at the shoreline. A goose control structure was installed over the planting to protect the area until it was established. Once established, the taller plants deter geese that would otherwise eat the shoreline vegetation and contribute to erosion. After installation, the area was mowed to a height of 12 inches to reduce any weed competition and allow sunlight to reach native seedlings. Spot applications of herbicide were used to further control weed infestations.
In 2005, some areas of the shoreline were still eroding. These areas were hand graded and re-seeded. 800 live plugs were added as well as four birdhouses. More aggressive invasive species were removed and algae was skimmed from the east end of the pond. A grass-specific herbicide was applied to the edge of the planting to create a curvilinear border.
In 2006, the first controlled burn was performed. This helps remove debris, recycle nutrients, and stimulate native plant and animal species, while discouraging the growth of invasive species. Before the burn, invasive thistle and teasel were removed and native seed was collected. The native seed was re-dispersed after the burn.
Once native plants were established mowing was no longer necessary. The area now provides beautiful scenery with lower maintenance costs. Occasional controlled burns will be performed to maintain the health of the natural area, as was once done with natural prairie fires. The pond is maintained by the native plants whose extensive root systems absorb excess nutrients, reducing the amount of algae that will grow. They also hold the soil in place, preventing erosion and maintaining a beautiful shoreline.
Photos:
