Nature Conservancy tree planting at Cascade under way

Years ago, travelers on Highway 61 began to notice the decline of the birch trees along the roadway. The problem is getting worse and The Nature Conservancy has launched an initiative to restore our North Shore forests. Borrowing a line from Minnesota native, Bob Dylan, The Nature Conservancy introduced its “Highway 61 Reforested” project. 
 

The Nature Conservancy is working to restore the forest, to develop a more diverse forest of evergreens. One of the sites where trees are being planted is Cascade River State Park. 
 

 A crew of nearly 40 workers have been planting trees at Cascade River and adding protective fencing to give the trees a chance to survive deer browsing at the park. 
 

There is an opportunity for the public to also lend a hand to this reforestation effort. The Nature Conservancy is hosting an event at Cascade River State Park on June 1,which begins at 10 a.m. and ends at 3 p.m. 
 

Volunteers will plant a small number of trees and help protect recently-planted trees from deer browse. 
 

The Nature Conservancy is asking volunteers to bring a bag lunch. Refreshments and snacks will be provided. 
 

Staff from The Nature Conservancy will provide an overview at 10 a.m. about forest restoration efforts in northeast Minnesota.

 This Highway 61 Reforested effort at Cascade is supported by the Weekes Family Foundation and the Lloyd K. Johnson Foundation. 
 

Rhonda Silence learns about it all from Chris Dunham of The Nature Conservancy. 
 

You can RSVP for the tree planting day by calling Dunham at 218-727-0149 or email [email protected].