In addition to the miles of trails at Lehigh Portland Trails, we’ve also been quietly working on other projects to improve the natural habitat on the property. Some of these are related to improving and expanding the grasslands by removing invasive species and increasing the number of native grasses and flowers.
This fall, we are collaborating with the Grassland Heritage Foundation, which owns property in nearby Anderson County. They are hosting two seed-collection events on their Leadplant Prairie and Paintbrush Prairie. We’re in the early stages of our prairie restoration work at Lehigh, and GHF has very generously offered to support our efforts by sharing both their seeds and their expert knowledge! These events are a great opportunity to learn about prairie restoration, plant identification, and seed collecting, plus connect with individuals and organizations involved in this exciting and rewarding work.
Sept. 28: 9:00 am at Leadplant & 11:30 am at Paintbrush.
Oct. 26: 11:00 am at Paintbrush & 1:30 pm at Leadplant.
During the events, led by GHF board members Mike Campbell and Courtney Masterson, everyone will learn how to collect and store seed and identify common fall prairie plants. All the seed collected will be used to further restore the prairies as well as prairie property along the Lehigh Portland Trails.
Picnic on the prairie! Please bring a sack lunch and a refillable water bottle if you plan to collect during both times on either day. GHF will supply water and lemonade and a gorgeous prairie setting, perfect for a picnic.
Wear sturdy shoes and dress appropriately for the weather. Bring gloves and scissors or pruners. Please also bring any paper bags that you might be willing to donate. Any size is fine. They’ll be used to collect the seed.
Email GHF at grasslandheritage@gmail.com for directions and additional information.