Vaughn Branch

Ecological Stewardship

On February 9th, 2022, EcoGro began work for Woods & Water Land Trust on management of invasive brush within a remote section of Vaughn Branch Nature Preserve. Most of this protected land is a steep ravine descending to an old ox-bow meander cut by the Kentucky river. Although volunteers had accomplished significant amount of work by hand pulling weeds in more accessible and sensitive areas, we were tasked with tough plants on tough terrain. Woody invasive species (including bush honeysuckle, privet, multiflora rose, and tree of heaven) were targeted during the dormant season to protect spring ephemeral wildflowers. First, unwanted species were cut down to the stump and treated with a concentrated application of a systemic herbicide formulated specifically for trees and shrubs. Our crew worked for 3 days covering approximately 3.5 acres of the mountainous parcel of land.

Project Partners

Funding Partners