Thanks to a dedicated group of volunteers, a new shelterbelt of native trees and shrubs is now taking root at the SCLT Big Goose Natural Area (BGNA).
On Monday, volunteers worked together to plant cottonwoods and buffaloberries in the shelterbelt along the office. These plantings will provide long-term benefits to the landscape by helping reduce wind, improve soil health, capture snow, and create important habitat for birds and other wildlife.
Volunteers also planted cottonwoods along the creek bank, continuing long-term stream restoration. As the cottonwoods grow, they will stabilize the bank and shade the stream, making it more habitable for fish and the food they eat.
The work continues a broader effort to strengthen habitat and improve the BGNA’s health over time.
The native trees and shrubs were ordered through the Sheridan County Conservation District, and the purchase was made possible thanks to support from donors and visitors to the BGNA.
“This kind of work pays off over time,” said John Graves, SCLT Director of Conservation and Resource Management. “What volunteers planted this week will help protect soil, support wildlife, and improve this space for years to come.”
SCLT is grateful to everyone who gave their time and effort to make this project happen. It’s because of this community that work like this continues to move forward.
