Cedar Swamp tree planting project on Nov. 5 cancelled
Nanticoke restoration project, Blackbird tree planting still on calendar

DOVER (Nov. 4, 2011) – The DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife has cancelled the native tree planting at the Cedar Swamp Wildlife Area previously announced for Saturday, Nov. 5. The ancient sand ridge forest restoration project on the Nanticoke Wildlife Area near Bethel on Sunday, Nov. 6 will be held as scheduled. More volunteers are needed for the native tree planting on Sunday, Nov. 13 at the Blackbird Reserve Wildlife Area.

• Blackbird Reserve Tree Planting – 1 to 4 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 13, Smyrna 

As part of a hedgerow restoration project, the Division of Fish and Wildlife has removed invasive hedgerow plants including trees and shrubs from areas in the Blackbird Reserve wildlife areas. Native trees will be planted to replace the non-native vegetation that was removed.

A mechanical auger will pre-drill the holes for the trees to be planted. Volunteers will follow behind the auger and place tree saplings into the holes and fill in with dirt. Matting will be placed around trees in some areas. Work gloves and water will be provided. Volunteers should wear long pants and close-toed shoes or boots.

Volunteers for this project must be at least 16 years old. Those under the age of 18 must provide a parent waiver, which can be printed online at www.fw.delaware.gov/volunteers. Volunteers also are asked to pre-register with contact information in case of inclement weather leading to postponement.

Volunteers for the Blackbird Reserve project are asked to meet at the parking lot on Eagles Nest Landing Road between Gum Bush and Deer Run roads. Maps and directions are available on the calendar page of the Division of Fish and Wildlife’s volunteer website.

For more information or to sign up for the Blackbird project, please contact Lynne Staub at 302-735-3600, or email lynne.staub@state.de.us.

For information on other volunteer opportunities with the DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife, visit www.fw.delaware.gov/volunteers.

Vol. 41, No. 424