UPDATE 11/18/22
Due to weather conditions, this planting event scheduled for 11/19 at Wanatee Park has been CANCELLED.
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Linn County Conservation have collected nuts and acorns as part of a program to help restore a forest forever changed by derecho. Volunteers are now encouraged to help plant these nuts and acorns at Wanatee Park on November 19 from 1 – 3 p.m.
The planting program will take place in a 15-acre area that was decimated by the 2020 storm. Damaged trees and debris have been removed and some seedling trees have now been planted. “It’s time to supplement those trees by planting native tree nuts,” stated Dana Kellogg, Natural Resources Manager for Linn County Conservation. “A good supply of the native acorns we have collected will have a reasonably good chance to survive and develop into a healthy oak or hickory tree.”
Volunteers will receive a canvas bag to keep (while supplies last) with nuts to plant. “The process will be as simple as poking a hole in the ground with a stick, dropping in a nut, and stepping on it,” said Kellogg. Planting sticks will be available, or volunteers can bring their own. “It can be as simple as a pointed stick or broom handle.”
WHO: Volunteers from the public to help supplement new trees in a 15-acre area at Wanatee Park.
WHAT: Prior to nut planting, an introduction to the park and brief overview of forest restoration plans will be given along with simple planting instructions.
WHEN: Saturday, November 19 from 1– 3 p.m.
WHERE: Wanatee Park’s west trail entrance, which is located along Lakeside Rd., just north of Abbotsford Rd., Marion.
REGISTRATION: Visit this registration link, or go to Events at LinnCountyIowa.gov/Conservation
NOTE: Terrain could be rough with some small tree debris still on the ground. Accessible areas are available for the planting, which may be more suitable for younger volunteers. Dress for the weather and tree planting (gloves) and bring your own water.