Controlled Burn Cuts Path for Reforestation
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Controlled Burn Cuts Path for Reforestation

Section of Laurel Hill Park was previously overgrown with Kudzu, Tree of Heaven, and other non-native invasive plants.

In another section of the reforestation area a large debris pile is ignited after water is sprayed on the historic corn crib and surrounding ground to protect the structure.

In another section of the reforestation area a large debris pile is ignited after water is sprayed on the historic corn crib and surrounding ground to protect the structure.

By By Susan Laume

Thursday, November 11, 2021

Fairfax County Park Authority’s Natural Resources Branch took another 
Project manager, ecologist Darko Veljkovic ignites burnable material to simulate a natural fire event in a section of Laurel Hill Park.

 

step toward improving forest habitat on Nov. 9, conducting a controlled burn in a section of Laurel Hill Park. The target area was previously overgrown with Kudzu, Tree of Heaven, and other non-native invasive plants. The burn, which mimics a natural fire event, opens space for planting native tree seedlings.  

The November burn timing clears the space in advance of a large scale tree planting planned for next month. In December, Laurel Hill will receive 2,000 seedlings; part of a $107,000 installation contract for 32,000 trees that will be placed in four park reforestation areas: Ellanor C. Lawrence, Elklick Woodlands Preserve, Frying Pan and Laurel Hill. 

Project manager for the Laurel Hill effort, ecologist Darko Veljkovic said six tree species will be planted, four kinds of oak and two hickories. Fencing will be completed next week in advance of planting to protect new seedlings from deer browse.

Removal of invasive and overgrown plants by the county and park volunteers has made the historic corn crib and creamery buildings, built as part of the Occoquan workhouse/prison operation, visible to hikers.