Project Updates

It’s been three years since construction wrapped up at the Reedy Creek site.  The floodplain vegetation continues to thrive, and the trees planted after construction have now grown above the tall grasses!   This natural progression in forest growth is exciting to see.  These riparian areas will continue to provide habitat and support animals as they grow and change.

During this year’s monitoring period, scientists discovered a patch of moccasin flower, or pink lady’s slipper (Cypripedium acaule), growing in the Reedy Creek Nature Preserve. The pink lady’s slipper is a member of the orchid family and requires a special symbiotic relationship with a fungus in the soil to germinate and grow, making it difficult to reach maturity and often taking years to grow from seed to a mature plant. Pink lady’s slippers grow in a variety of habitats found in eastern United States forests. Most are found growing in mixed hardwood coniferous forests, in semi-open areas with well-drained soil. We are thrilled to see unique plants such as this thriving within the Reedy Creek Nature Preserve!

Scientists are currently performing the third year of post-construction monitoring at the Reedy Creek Stream Restoration Project. Based on their findings and observations, trees, plants, and shrubs along the stream are growing right on track. If you haven’t already, we encourage you to hike the Sierra Loop trail to check out the stream corridors that have come to life! The above photos feature views of Reedy Creek and Sassafras Creek from the trail bridges.

First time visiting Reedy Creek Park and Nature Preserve? Be sure to check out this informative map and guide ».