The Harpswell Invasive Plant Partnership (HIPP) has made significant progress in reducing invasive plants at Johnson Field Preserve on Bailey Island. Thanks to the annual efforts of HIPP’s many volunteers, large swaths of non-native wisteria have been removed from the southeast corner of this beautiful field overlooking Mackerel Cove. The next phase of the conservation efforts will be re-planting that cleared area with the native grass called Little Bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium), which has been purchased by HIPP through Bowdoinham’s Campo di Fiori nursery. 100 plugs of this native grass are arriving soon for our spring planting. In order to plant these grass plugs, HIPP will need the help of volunteers like you!
Native grasses provide both food and habitat for local wildlife. Sparrows, finches, and other small birds can build their nests in the dense clumps of Little Bluestem. Bumble bee queens favor the winter protection of these grass clumps, and this is necessary to start new bee colonies. Butterfly species, such as the Delaware skipper, lay their larvae on this plant. So, the overall health and resilience of the ecosystem will be improved by these new plantings. Additionally, with Johnson Field’s sloping land always at risk of erosion, the root systems of little bluestem will spread over time to help stabilize the soil.
HIPP will announce a planting day as soon as the new grass plugs arrive, and encourages you to join in. No experience is necessary, and all ages are welcome. It’ll be a great opportunity to get outdoors, learn about native plants, and make a positive impact on the environment. Watch for HIPP’s announcement on our website. In addition to your help on planting day, HIPP will also need your help to keep the newly planted plugs watered until they settle in. This will be a weekly effort in early summer that will require the assistance of our community members. If you’re interested in volunteering or learning more about these opportunities, please contact HIPP at hippmaine.org or [email protected].
Together, we can continue to preserve and protect the health and natural beauty of Johnson Field.
