Drew Fights for its Forest:
U. Forges Federal Partnership to Rescue Campus Ecosystems
MADISON, NJ-Drew University's acres of majestic forest are about to get a new lease on life. A partnership between the university and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, facilitated by the New Jersey Audubon Society, will help Drew realize its longstanding commitment to preserving its local ecosystems. At its last meeting in October, Drew's Board of Trustees pledged not to develop the to-be-revitalized areas for at least 10 years.
(Media-Newswire.com) - MADISON, NJ—Drew University’s acres of majestic forest are about to get a new lease on life. A partnership between the university and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, facilitated by the New Jersey Audubon Society, will help Drew realize its longstanding commitment to preserving its local ecosystems. At its last meeting in October, Drew’s Board of Trustees pledged not to develop the to-be-revitalized areas for at least 10 years.
“For the last few years, foreign invaders like Norway maples and wisteria vines have been attacking the native vegetation in Drew’s forest,” said Michael Kopas, the school’s director of special projects. “Allowing the siege to continue would have the devastating consequence of reducing species diversity—and this would be a serious blow to the integrity of our local forest ecosystem.”
According to Dr. Sara Webb, director of the Drew Forest Preserve and a professor of biology and environmental studies, a pervasive presence of Norway maples hinders the growth and survival of native trees and other plants. Wisteria and oriental bittersweet vines exact damage by literally strangling both old and new trees. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has awarded Drew a grant-in-kind that will be put toward the abatement of invasive vines and the planting of native shrubs and trees in the forested section of the university’s campus.
Another problem plaguing the Drew forest is its overabundance of deer. The university is pursuing funds for fencing that would allow newly planted, native flora to take root and flourish without being consumed by deer. It would also allow existing native vegetation to thrive and reproduce naturally.
“This project builds on Drew’s prominence for ecological initiatives,” noted Webb. "It fits with our new major in environmental studies and sustainability, to preserve our natural outdoor laboratory and to play a leadership role in protecting biodiversity.”
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Partners for Wildlife Program was created in 1987. Its key function is to help private landowners enhance and restore habitat for fish and wildlife.
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