Harbor Springs

Residents of Harbor Springs, in Aurora, IL, found themselves back in touch with nature following a major restoration of existing wetlands. A prairie and wetland buffer, designed and installed by Pizzo & Associates, converted the land back to its natural state, returning it to its authentic and original pristine state. The project was initially met with skepticism on a number of levels. These were carefully addressed and explained through numerous meetings with the homeowners association and guided field walks for any and all interested residents seeking more understanding of the process and procedures.

Many residents were excited about the proposed addition of flowers and wildlife and a decrease in the nagging goose population in their private community. Some residents were worried about the need for controlled fires — a method that many were unfamiliar with — and others were under the misconception that the treated area would be immediately filled with blooming flowers. With meetings and tours, we were able to reassure residents about the work that would be done and the benefits of a natural and healthy ecosystem.

Thirty-five pounds of native seed per acre and 12,000 native plants were installed, while non-native species were removed by hand, herbicide or fire. By using native species and removing non-native species to restore the wetland to a more natural state, the function of the land increased for wildlife and residents, who live in close proximity with the outdoors. Species diversified and the water quality improved considerably. The wetland plants, along with some minor grading and cosmetic work, helped abate an erosion problem along the pond’s shoreline.

Native plants immediately deterred large populations of geese from flocking to and roosting on the shoreline. The wildlife habitat was enhanced and the aesthetic value of Harbor Springs has been increased with the presence of more flowers, birds and butterflies. Simultaneously, costs were lowered as less maintenance is required compared to what was needed for traditional ornamental landscaping and turf grass.

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