With a bit of work, primarily from volunteers but also the support of the Lake Zurich
Parks & Recreation Department, it is possible to transform the park as shown below,
using before shots of Oak Ridge Marsh, and representations of after shots modeling
the restored areas of nearby protected areas. We have the knowledge to do this
in a safe and environmentally effective manner, and it will result in an explosion of
species diversity, both plant and animal. All we need is the help of additional
volunteers.
A nearly hidden tree on the left could be allowed to be seen again while butterflies
flutter about its base, like this restored area at
Cuba Marsh Forest Preserve.
An ancient oak largely obscured by buckthorn near the entrance could be the centerpiece
of the park, like this oak savanna on the right being seen by a workgroup at
CFC's Flint Creek Savanna.
The ground in these "buckthorn barrens" in the center of Oak Ridge Marsh are essentially
devoid of life, but could be brought back using seed found on the park, such as from this
false solomon's seal, seen against a backdrop of Pennsylvania sedge.
Both of these plants should be staples in an oak savanna/woodland habitat. Nodding onion,
specific to northern Illinois, horse gentian and mayapples are other plants found in
the park, and must be nurtured, along with young oaks and hickory trees, before the
buckthorn kills it all.
