May 21, 2016, Saturday - Native Shrub and Wildflower Planting with Friends of the Mississippi River

Time: 9:00am - 11:00am

Location: Mississippi River Gorge, Minneapolis

Join Friends of the Mississippi River (FMR) to Plant native shrubs and wildflowers in the Oak Savanna

Just off the main path along the Minneapolis riverfront lies a surprisingly beautiful and rare oak savanna and woodlands. This area includes the highest quality plant communities remaining in the River Gorge, including a mesic prairie and a remnant oak brushland/woodland undergoing restoration to oak savanna.

For years, it has been carefully tended by River Gorge Stewards volunteers. Coming from both the community and the larger metro area, volunteers have completed much of the habitat restoration work, including removing and managing the invasive species (such as buckthorn) that formerly dominated this site.

At this event, volunteers will work closely with FMR ecologist Alex Roth and local River Gorge Steward ecologist Carolyn Carr to plant native shrubs, trees and wildflowers where there was once invasive buckthorn. The native plants will provide habitat — for birds, bees, butterflies and other wildlife — and help filter pollution from runoff waters before it can enter the Mississippi River.

Tools and gloves will be provided. Shovels and trowels will be in use, but children are welcome with a parent or guardian.