2002 Draft Natural Resources Management

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Upland Natural Comrr�unity Descriptions and Nlanagement Recommendations The upland areas of Lan�ton Lake Park all appear to have been grazed in the past, although the inajor components of the oak communities have not been too drastically altered. There has been sozne invasion by nonnative shrubs, particu{arly European buckthorn, as well as dominancc of one distinct area in the northwest portion of thc park by Sibenan elm. However, the vast majonty af the natuzal areas are in moderately good condition and stand a good chance of improving in quality wzth some active management, including the cutting of nonnative shrubs, reintroduction of fire at proper intervals, anci the planting of appropi-iate native grasses, sedges, and flowers. Below is a summary of upland community descr�ptions and associated management recommendations. Community LIl-Ul Dry Oak Forest Qualitative Rank: C Nonnative 5i�rub Rank: Southwest =17 Northwest =19 This forest occurs on the west side of Langton Lake with the two parcels separated by County Road C2_ The southwest parcel is some�vhat better quaHty as a result of having fetiver nonnative shrub problems and �ess past disturbance. In general, the cornznunity has about 90 percent canopy closure and is characterized by bur, white and pin oak that average approximately 22 to 26 inches in diameter. In some places, these oaks have baps between their canopies and in others have crowns that intermingle. Where canopy gaps occur, a r�umber of tree species have arown into them. Some of these youn�er, second-growth trees include boxelder, American elm, quaking aspen, and black cherry. In addition, t�vo nonnative tree species are found here. One of these is 5iberian elm,�found in largcr numbers at the north edge of the cammunity. The other is a white poplar clone near a bench and overlook on thc southwest side of the lake. Ciry of Rase��ille 1 n% Parks Natr�ral /Zesoiu-ce Management