Conservation

Conservation at the Wakefield Arboretum

Conservation is a key subject when supporting the Mary May Binney Wakefield Arboretum’s mission to promote life-long participatory learning and foster relationships between humans and the environment.

Meadow Restoration – To reduce the amount of turf grass on the property and promote ecologically rich habitat for beneficial insects, the meadow was installed in the middle of the newly restored apple orchard. Data on the presence of flowers and insects, the health of the meadow, and the timing of flower emergence will be observed throughout the seasons.

Invasive Management – Consistent and thorough management is used to remove and suppress common invasive species on the property. The Massachusetts Invasive Plant Advisory Group (MIPAG) is used to guide what plants are prioritized during management and removals.

Nature’s Notebook – Check out 15 years of phenological data of arboretum specimens, here.

iNaturalist – Students and staff use iNaturalist to collect data and location on flora and fauna at the arboretum. This is another database staff uses to track and locate invasive species on the property. Check out the Mary May Binney Wakefield Arboretum iNaturalist here.

Ponkapog Invasive Species Management Plan – A collaborative research paper by Executive Director, Debbie Merriam, and the Department of Conservation & Recreation. Learn about the research and work that went into invasive management and control in the local watershed here.