Stopping the Chopping!
Recently, a family of beaver have moved into Riverside and taken up residence along the banks of the Des Plaines River in Swan Pond. Under the supervision of Village Forester Mike Collins, a hardy group of volunteers assisted in protecting trees along the Swan Pond path against beaver damage. Chicken wire has been installed around selected trees to armor them against chewing.
Beavers chop down trees with their teeth for food and for building dams and lodges. They eat the bark, buds, stems, and twigs of trees. In addition, like all rodents, their teeth never stop growing, so chewing wood helps keep them sharp and prevents the teeth from growing too long. Protecting trees from beaver chewing is a very common concern. The LAC is grateful to the volunteers who wrapped more than 60 trees along the river in chicken wire over a two day period on January 8 and 9. Thanks go out to volunteers Fran and Carlos Alcantara, Beverly Aieta, Peter and Lisa Janunas, Laura Lindley, Paul MacNerland, Beth and Richard Rankin, and to Jill Mateo for the photos.
Dreaming of Gardens
It may be wintry and dreary now, but in a few short months, it will be time to garden! Now is the time to start thinking about your garden. The LAC recommends the following source materials for information and inspiration. Many informative classes are being offered free as online webinars.
Chicago Botanic Garden: This page has monthly tips for trees/shrubs, indoor plants and general garden information.
West Cook Wild Ones - Native Pollinator Garden Basics for the Chicago Region
West Cook Wild Ones - Getting Started with a Native Garden
New Directions in the American Landscape Ecology Based Landscapes Webinar Series