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Streambed Restoration Project

An Initiative under the Rutgers Environmental Steward Program

Introduction

This project is a Rutgers Environmental Steward Program initiative, launched in 2019 and maintained by volunteers from the Northeast Earth Coalition with the support of the Essex County Master Gardeners Program. The goal has been the creation of a visually appealing, low-maintenance, and ecologically vibrant space along a previously neglected section of streambed. This effort has focused on the removal of invasive weeds and shrubs, replacing them with deer-resistant, pollinator- and bird-friendly native plants adapted to the moist, somewhat shady conditions of the streambed.

Site Location and Description

Location

The project site is located below the overlook structure just south of the children’s playground. It begins at the base of the overlook and follows the ephemeral streambed approximately 140 feet to the asphalt walkway adjacent to the ephemeral pool.

Site Description

Historically, the rocky base of the overlook structure featured a natural spring that fed a permanent stream. However, the spring, stream, and adjacent pool now only hold water during and after periods of rainfall, rendering them ephemeral. This project focuses on restoring the streambed and its banks, targeting invasive plants within a 30-foot radius and replacing them with native vegetation suited to the shaded and moist environment. The site is characterized by partial shade, with moist conditions along the streambed and its banks, transitioning to drier conditions just beyond.

Invasive Plant Management

The project began with the systematic removal of invasive species such as burdock, poison ivy, Asian honeysuckle, and mugwort. These species were particularly problematic along the banks and within the vicinity of the streambed. For example, burdock, while relatively easy to control through early-season weeding, had begun to establish itself along the banks. Poison ivy, forming a colony, required prompt removal through digging. To prevent reinvasion, ongoing efforts to control these invasive species are a critical part of the project.

Native Plantings

Once invasive species were brought under control, cleared areas were replanted with native species that are better adapted to local conditions and provide essential support to native wildlife. These plants were chosen for their ability to stabilize the soil, crowd out weeds, and create a sustainable habitat for birds and pollinating insects.

Groundcover Plants

The first priority was to establish dense groundcover to stabilize the soil and suppress weed growth. Species such as golden groundsel, marsh marigold, common violet, alumroot, and bloodroot were selected for their resilience and ability to provide attractive spring flowers.

Moisture-Friendly Flowering Plants

In addition to groundcover, moisture-friendly flowering plants were chosen for their visual appeal, seasonal interest, and benefits to wildlife. Examples include swamp milkweed, golden Alexanders, marsh phlox, obedient plant, red bee-balm, cardinal flower, New England aster, and zig-zag goldenrod.

Native Shrubs and Low-Growing Trees

Some invasive honeysuckles growing farther from the stream were removed and replaced with native shrubs and low-growing trees. These include shadbush and flowering dogwood, chosen to complement the existing vegetation and enhance the ecological value of the site.

Invasive Weed and Shrub Management Plan

Strategies for Controlling Four Key Invasive Species

Introduction

The restoration of the streambank area is not only about introducing vibrant native species but also requires the effective management of invasive plants that threaten local biodiversity and ecological stability. This document outlines a focused strategy to manage and mitigate the growth of four key invasive species: mug wort, Asian honeysuckle, burdock, and poison ivy. Each species presents unique challenges and will require tailored 

Conclusion

The management of the invasive species is a crucial aspect of the streambed restoration project. By employing targeted strategies such as solarization, frequent manual removal, and protective replanting, the project aims to restore ecological balance to the area. These methods, combined with the introduction of native groundcover and flowering plants, will ensure a sustainable and thriving habitat that benefits both wildlife and the local community. After six years of work, and native plantings, the site has been transformed into a sustainable and vibrant habitat, contributing to the health of the local ecosystem.

Project Team

This project has been spearheaded by a dedicated team of environmentalists and gardening experts:

• David Wasmuth - Project Leader, Environmentalist, and Certified Rutgers Environmental Steward

• Jose German - Environmentalist, Landscape Designer, Certified Rutgers Environmental Steward, and Master Gardener

The Streambed Restoration Project stands as a testament to the power of community-driven ecological stewardship. Through a combination of invasive species management