Invasive Plant Removal Workday at Goat Hill Barrens

Goat Hill Barrens. Photo © Molly T. Anderson/TNC

Date:
Sunday, November 22, 2009

Time:
Be at preserve parking lot at by 1:00 p.m.

Overview:
Located along the Maryland-Pennsylvania border, the State-Line Serpentine Barrens contains some of the last major remnants of serpentine grassland in eastern North America. The thin soils covering this light green bedrock contain high levels of nickel, chromium and other metals that prove toxic to most plants and animals. However, while lacking nutrients, this habitat supports numerous species — many rare or endangered — that have adapted to the harsh environment over thousands of years.

The Nature Conservancy has worked to protect globally rare serpentine barrens since 1979, when it joined Chester County’s “Concerned Citizens of West Nottingham Township” to oppose the quarrying of serpentine rock near the Goat Hill Barrens. The partnership succeeded in blocking the project, and prevented further damage to surrounding natural areas. Since then, the Conservancy has acquired additional land near the Goat Hill Barrens, transferring some of it to the state for a rare plant preserve. Today, the Conservancy assists with conservation at the Goat Hill Barrens, and also owns and manages the Chrome Barrens located nearby.

The objective of this workday will be to perform prairie maintenance to include removing invasive plants by cutting and hand pulling.

Suggestions:
Wear boots suitable for walking over uneven and possibly wet terrain. Leather gloves will also be useful as well as loppers and/or rake. Additional supplies will be provided. Snacks and water will also be provided. Wear long sleeves and pants to be protected from the understory and ticks. In the fall season, it’s always best to dress in layers. Please note there are no restroom facilities at this preserve.

Registration:
Please let us know if you plan to come so we know to expect you and can update you on any last minute
changes. Contact Molly Anderson at molly_anderson@tnc.org or at (717) 232-6001, extension 117.
If you need to reach someone on the day of the workday, please call Molly Anderson on her cell phone at
(717) 418-9518.

Directions:
From Route 1 south, drive approximately 2.5 miles past the Maryland state line, and turn right onto Red Pump Road. Continue straight on Red Pump Road (past the Freemont Road and Pleasant Drive intersection) to the power line and the Bureau of Forestry’s Goat Hill parking lot on the left at wooden sign. For directions from alternative routes, please contact Molly Anderson at (717) 232-6001, extension 117 or molly_anderson@tnc.org.


*For more volunteering opportunities in Pennsylvania, please check out our full workday schedule.