A Day with IWLA: What a fantastic Saturday it was! A lively crew of 18 volunteers, including student interns from District 207 and some wonderful families, teamed up with IWLA’s land steward, KT Petersen, to tackle the notorious buckthorn and other invasive species.
With a spring in their step and tools ready, this energetic bunch worked their magic, turning invasive thickets into open spaces ready for regeneration. KT’s expertise and the group's enthusiasm made for a fun and productive day, proving once again that teamwork makes the dream work!
Why Buckthorn Is a Threat to Forest Health
Buckthorn is a major problem for forests because it aggressively outcompetes native plants for resources like sunlight, water, and nutrients. Its dense growth forms impenetrable thickets that shade out and suppress the growth of native species, disrupting the balance of the ecosystem. Buckthorn also alters soil chemistry and provides a poor habitat for local wildlife, which relies on native plants for food and shelter. This invasion reduces biodiversity, weakens the overall health of the forest, and makes it harder for native plants and animals to thrive.
We couldn’t be more grateful for the time and effort everyone put in. The forest is looking better already, thanks to your hard work!
Want to join in on future adventures and make a difference? Check out our event calendar for upcoming events, become a member, and get involved. We’d love to see you there!
In gratitude,
The Ikes
#iwla #conservation #buckthorn #forest regeneration #desplaines