Restoration work continues to progress at the Fourth Street Preserve as members of the Delaware Master Naturalist Program began the first phase of invasive plant removal over the weekend. The group focused on removing English ivy, one of the most aggressive non-native species that affects the health of native trees and understory plants throughout the preserve.
The volunteer effort marks an important first step in preparing the 29-acre site for native tree and habitat restoration. Removing invasive vegetation provides sunlight, nutrients, and space for native plants to re-establish—a critical step in restoring ecological balance and long-term resiliency to the property.
In addition to the invasive removal, task force chair and landscape architect Rodney Robinson, along with task force members Jim Ford and Scott Wilkinson, marked the southeastern path with stakes and outlined the route for a future hiking trail. The planned trail will allow visitors to experience the natural features of the protected area up close while protecting sensitive areas from overuse and erosion.
“These actions may seem small, but they represent a major step forward towards the preserve’s long-term vision – a thriving, accessible urban forest right in the heart of Lewes,” Robinson said. “We are grateful for the expertise and dedication of the Master Naturalists and for the community’s continued support as we continue this important work.”
The Fourth Street Preserve Task Force meets publicly on the second Wednesday of each month at 2 p.m. at Lewes City Hall, 114 East Third St., Lewes. Residents are encouraged to participate, stay informed and participate in volunteer opportunities as the project progresses.
To learn more, visit fourstreetpreserve.org or follow the Open Space Alliance on Facebook.