
Volunteers planting trees at Lemoine Point Conservation Area.
In 2011 the CRCA began a climate change research project at Lemoine Point Conservation Area. This project focuses on forestry and the ability of tree species to adapt to climate change.
As part of this project we will be planting a test plot of Bur Oak and other southern hardwood species near the south (Front Road) entrance to Lemoine Point.
Background
We expect that climate change will have a significant effect on our forests including their ability to adapt genetically. Forests could suffer due to temperature and weather extremes and be unable to regenerate themselves locally or to migrate by natural means of wind, water and animals.
One of the ways to ensure that our forests continue to remain productive and healthy environments is to plant seed of species that originate in a warmer area than our current climate zone. In other words, to assist the migration of southern species to the north.
Project Details
The planting site will be located to the south and west of the south parking lot at the Front Road entrance to the Lemoine Point Conservation Area. This site was chosen for its accessibility and visibility as well as being outside of the restricted height area adjacent to the airport. It is also partially fenced. Additional fencing will need to be installed to prevent deer from entering the plantation area.
Bur Oak has been selected as the main species for this site because it is a native oak species that is suitable for the clay soils that are found in this location. Some of the seedlings will come from Tennessee, Pennsylvania and southwestern Ontario. Planting will begin in the spring of 2012.
The planting will also include other mixed southern hardwood species and a buffer of Norway Spruce surrounding the plantation.
Before the site is planted it must be prepared. The site has been mowed and herbicide will be applied in fall 2011 to reduce the amount of vegetation in the areas where the trees will be planted. This will give the trees a good chance to become established.
Once the trees are planted, tree guards will be installed on the trees to prevent voles and rabbits from damaging the trees. Ongoing maintenance will include mowing and herbicide application as needed.
Weather monitoring equipment will also be installed on the site.
Project Partners
Partners for this project include:
- Cataraqui Region Conservation Authority
- Ministry of Natural Resources
- Forest Gene Conservation Association
- Natural Resources Canada
- Trees Ontario
- Frontenac Stewardship Council
- Lennox and Addington Stewardship Council
- Friends of Lemoine Point.
For more information
If you would like more information about this project please contact:
Rick Knapton, CRCA Forestry Technician
Phone: (613) 389-3651
E-mail: rknapton@crca.ca