cktimes.ca Archives for Nature Link
Nature Link
The Highway 40 project
Wednesday, June 4, 2003
Under the leadership of the Rural Lambton Stewardship Network, various organizations are involved in funding and planting. These include the Ministry of Natural Resources, Ontario Power Generation, Great Lakes Sustainability Fund, and MTO. The planting of shrubs has been undertaken by the St. Clair Region Conservation Authority.
Shrub planting for 2003 has now been completed up to Petrolia Line. The section north from Petrolia Line to Lasalle Line is handled by Dow. They have already planted trees and shrubs on their lands, and are continuing to do so this year. I personally have been involved with the tree and shrub planting both at Dow and along the highway.
Core anchor areas (established woodlots) include the First Nations Territory (north of Lasalle Line), Bickford Oak Woods area, and Walpole Island. As well, the Sydenham River valley is a key corridor extending inland.
Shrubs have been planted in various sections in one or two rows, depending on available land. Sometimes both sides of the highway right-of-way are utilized. Shrubs include Red Osier Dogwood, Gray Dogwood, Silky Dogwood, Ninebark, Elderberry, Nannyberry, Highbush Cranberry or Serviceberry. Conifer breaks of White Spruce are planted every so often.
Prairie plantings yet to be done, include some larger areas. A mix of various wildflowers and grasses will be planted, mainly by seed. Existing grass and vegetation has been sprayed by herbicide to allow the seeds to be planted. You will notice large brown areas along the highway, especially farther north, where this has been done.
Due consideration has been given with these plantings for safety concerns along the highway, as well as utility lines.
Again, ATV's are a concern, as there is a well-established track along the highway. Most of these ATV users have no regard for wildlife and the natural environment.
It is hoped that this project will provide a continuous wildlife corridor from the Walpole Island area up to Sarnia and beyond. It is the first such undertaking in Ontario, if not Canada. Many of these projects have been established in the United States.
The project has much potential if it is successful. It will take time and effort to get established if all goes well.
Dealing with prairie plantings is a challenge due to noxious weeds. These weeds are very aggressive and will hinder growth of a good prairie site. Prairies are dependent on burning for success and rejuvenation. Unfortunately at this time, burning will not be possible along the highway due to safety concerns and the inability to close down the highway for a period of time. Mowing, haying or spraying is the only option available for the rejuvenation process. This is where the challenge lies, but hopefully in a few years we will have something to boast about.
The attached photo I took a few years ago is of an Upland Sandpiper. It prefers to nest in pastures and open areas. Some nest on the Dow property near Lasalle Line.
