Weed Warriors Tackle New PBC Prairie

The next restoration phase of the 160-acre Platinum Prairie expansion to the Pheasant Branch Conservancy is underway following completion of the four-year “Seed the Need” seeding project. Through the combined forces of the Friends of Pheasant Branch Conservancy and Dane County Parks, management efforts large and small are proceeding to give the over 200 seeded species of native grasses and wildflowers an opportunity to thrive. Obstacles to this goal include an existing seedbank of non-native and aggressive invasive species along with inflow of these plants from adjacent lands and waterways.

The Platinum Prairie comprises four quadrants with seeding having occurred one quadrant per year over the past four early spring seasons. With each area at a different stage of evolution, they individually require a different management approach. Some of the more recently seeded areas are currently dominated by less desirable species and can be more indiscriminately managed through large-scale mowing practices. However, more established areas are already showing significant plant diversity. These areas benefit from greater management precision, and this is where the Weed Warriors team comes into play.

“Parsnip Predators” shovel (photo by Chris Kubiak)

Starting in June 2024, a group of about 10 volunteers led by Pheasant Branch land manager Rob Schubert has been unleashed into the southern areas targeting various undesirable species. Armed with “Parsnip Predators”—a specially modified shovel designed to help its wielder efficiently sever the main root of a plant—these volunteers slowly scour the prairie looking for species like common burdock, various thistles, and sweet clover varieties, removing them while minimizing damage to other plants. The goal is clearing away these invasives before they go to seed, knocking back their ability to propagate and giving more a diverse range of native plants a leg up in the long battle to control the prairie. 

Unfortunately, this is not a one-and-done effort and will require persistent, targeted weeding and other management techniques such as controlled burning in the years ahead. However, a beautifully diverse prairie is already starting to shine through, providing a growing habitat to an equally diverse array of returning insects, birds, and other wildlife.

Plumeless Thistle (photo by Chris Kubiak)

The Weed Warriors team will continue to work biweekly through the rest of summer before returning next year to cover increased territory as the prairie continues to evolve. If you wish to join their ranks, please contact Rob Schubert at [email protected] to learn more about this great opportunity for an up-close look at the early restoration stages of an amazing natural place.