By Kate Dzikiewicz
Connecticut’s natural landscapes are increasingly threatened by invasive species, plants and animals which outcompete native species and degrade healthy habitats. Trees are particularly vulnerable to invasive vines that climb and smother their branches, as well as pests that compromise tree health, such as the nematode responsible for beech leaf disease.
The Greenwich Tree Conservancy works to reduce the impact of invasive species and pests by educating residents on how to protect the trees on their properties. In addition, we actively assist with vine cutting and other invasive removal efforts throughout the community. Recently, our work has expanded into a more ambitious habitat restoration initiative. The Greenwich Tree Conservancy has partnered with the Town of Greenwich on an invasive mitigation and restoration project at Laddin’s Rock Sanctuary.
Located along the border of Old Greenwich and Stamford, the 18-acre Laddin’s Rock Sanctuary connects directly to Stamford’s Rosa Hartman Park and features wooded trails, waterways, and natural forest habitat. In recent years, however, sections of the sanctuary have been overtaken by invasive Japanese knotweed, a fast-growing plant which can form dense thickets and shade out young trees, shrubs, and other plants.
To address this challenge, the Town of Greenwich and the Greenwich Tree Conservancy launched the first phase of an extensive invasive mitigation and tree-planting effort. Greenwich Parks & Trees staff removed the knotweed and will continue to monitor and maintain the area in the coming months to prevent regrowth. Next, the Greenwich Tree Conservancy planted 70 native trees throughout the cleared area, with additional plantings planned for the spring.
While tree planting is most common during warmer months, many cold-hardy species can be successfully planted in winter, provided the ground is not too frozen to dig. Soil temperatures below the surface are often significantly warmer than air temperatures, and trees are naturally dormant during winter, making them well-suited for transplanting during that time.
For this project, we selected a diverse mix of native tree species commonly found in Connecticut forests, including hornbeam, tulip tree, and several species of oak. Later this year, invasive removal and tree planting efforts will expand to the adjacent riparian corridor along a small brook. This brook flows directly into the pond at Binney Park and then out into Long Island Sound. Improvements to ecological health along the waterway in Laddin’s Rock Sanctuary could have beneficial impacts on water quality at these downstream sites as well.
Dr. Gregory Kramer, Superintendent of Parks & Trees and Tree Warden, noted, “Laddin’s Rock Sanctuary is a diverse forest with many native species of plants and animals. However, a few areas are in need of invasive plant removal and native plantings. The removal of the invasive plants and the planting of native trees and shrubs will both enhance the visitor experience and benefit wildlife.”
Laddin’s Rock Sanctuary is cherished by local residents for its natural beauty and tranquil setting. Bordered by Interstate 95, the park serves as a vital green buffer and helps to reduce noise, improve air quality, and provide a peaceful refuge from surrounding development.
Restoring this sanctuary to a more natural state will strengthen local ecosystems and support wildlife. Native trees play a critical role in sustaining birds, butterflies, and countless other species that depend on them for food and habitat.
The Greenwich Tree Conservancy is deeply grateful to its supporters and donors, whose generosity makes this important work possible. Together, we are helping ensure that Greenwich’s natural spaces remain healthy, resilient, and thriving for generations to come.
Kate Dzikiewicz
Executive Director, Greenwich Tree Conservancy
To find out more about the Greenwich Tree Conservancy, visit us at: www.greenwichtreeconservancy.org
