Volunteers recently visited Pine City Natural Area (NA) and Middle Fork Barrens Natural Area (NA) to assist with removal of invasive plant species and litter from the natural areas.

At Pine City NA in Monroe County, 12 volunteers worked to clear up an extensive trash dump site on the natural area. The Monroe County judge and Waste Corporation of Arkansas donated a 20-yard dumpster to assist with clean-up efforts. (Pine City NA volunteers pictured at left)

Pine City NA provides habitat for the federally-endangered red-cockaded woodpecker (Picoides borealis). The natural area also contains the “Lost Pine of Arkansas”, a high-quality natural stand of loblolly pines.

Nine volunteers at Middle Fork Barrens NA helped to remove Eastern red cedar from the natural area. Volunteers were given the option of taking a cedar tree home for use as fish habitat, Christmas decoration, or other personal use. (Middle Fork Barrens NA volunteers pictured at right)

Located in Saline County, Middle Fork Barrens NA contains a complex of open glades, barrens, and dry oak woodlands. Extensive cedar removal work has been necessary to restore open glades and woodlands to the area.

Thanks to our volunteers for their help at these events. Your time and dedication enables us to accomplish more than we could without you.