Historic landscapes are important cultural resources that are part of our national heritage. They represent a physical record of the history of a property and reflect a personal account of design trends and styles, social history, and the life styles of the owners. Meadow Brook Hall’s Woodland Entrance is an important component of our historic landscape, it also serves as a natural habitat for wildlife and as a recreational attraction for visitors to enjoy.
Meadow Brook Hall Woodland Entrance Restoration Program
The woodlands have slowly declined over the years and have become unsightly due to disease and insect infestations. As the trees die off, they leave open spaces which allow invasive species to take hold, smothering out desirable species. Establishing a manageable maintenance program will create a more balanced ecosystem, one that will regenerate itself naturally.
Helping us facilitate the program is ReLeaf Michigan
Meadow Brook Hall is continuing the Woodland Entrance Restoration Program on Arbor Day, April 27, as an annual community work day and tree planting celebration. The goal will be to improve a significant area adjacent to the entrance drive.
Helping us facilitate the program is ReLeaf Michigan, a statewide volunteer non-profit tree planting organization whose mission is to educate the public on the value of trees and how to properly select, plant and maintain them. Also helping us is the Department of Natural Resources and the City of Rochester Hills.
Following a short orientation, all volunteers will be divided into work groups to:
- remove invasive plant species (dig out or cut to ground)
- haul fallen branches
- spread wood chips in the planting area
- plant trees
Following the work session, volunteers will gather on the Loggia Terrace for a ceremonial tree planting, photo opportunity and receive a seedling to take home.
Friday, April 27, 1:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
- 1:00 p.m. – Garden Tent: Volunteer check-in and brief orientation
- 1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. Woodlands clean-up and planting
- 3:30 p.m. Arbor Day celebration and tree planting ceremony
How to Help:
- Sign-up as a “work” volunteer
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- Donate funds to purchase trees for planting; ReLeaf Michigan will match up to $1,000 to buy trees
- Bring your own tools or donate funds to purchase tools such as loppers, pruners, shovels and rakes
- Bring beverages/snacks for volunteers
Contact Nikki Thomas: thomas23@oakland.edu or 248-364-6209 to volunteer, donate or for more information or visit www.meadowbrookhall.org.
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