Written By: Sara Kong
The AYLUS Dix Hills Branch works with the Saturday Stewards alongside the AYLUS Syosset and Great Neck Branch to continue their recurring goal to establish a more biologically diverse environment. During this event, volunteers removed the Asiatic Japanese Honeysuckle, Greenbriar, Porcelain Berry, and other species that hinder the stability of the ecosystem that surrounds the active species.
In previous events, volunteers have tackled the Japanese Honeysuckle and Greenbriar, invasive vines that are notorious for being rooted into the ground and grow at an abnormal rate, which ultimately have infringed on nearby habitat growth such as trees and other native species. We were informed that at times, deers approach nearby areas in the forests we worked on, and have a liking to these invasive species within. Regardless, these vines spread in different ways which block sunlight, making it difficult for other native species to grow and thrive. As a result, they outcompete these native species and lead to uncontrollable growth instead.
Porcelain Berry is a highly invasive species that is dormant around this time of the year, but usually known for its colorful berries when in season. However, the species thrives in areas ranging from partially shady to areas with full sunlight, causing it to grow at a rapid rate. Its vines are able to climb over trees as well, resulting in other flora being weighed down, which makes them more susceptible to damage and inhibits the habitat for natural species, such as the Baltimore Checkerspot, and their ability to thrive.
To combat the scope of the issue and alleviate the extent of the growth, volunteers removed as many vines as possible by pulling them out, or cutting them if they were deeply rooted underground. By doing so, we were able to see the start of a more robust grassland that animals and insects could reside in more easily.
Albeit the cold weather, the AYLUS Dix Hills members’ strong contributions to the removal of these species have paved the way for the environment to reestablish equilibrium and thrive immensely.
Volunteers: Sara Kong (3 hours) and Ivan Wu (2 hours 30 minutes).
