In this episode, we delve into the complex and vital process of restoring the Bois d'Arc Lake mitigation sites, which involves planting millions of trees in areas previously used as cotton fields. The main challenge lies not only in ensuring the long-term survival of these trees but also in planting them swiftly and efficiently.
The restoration process begins with preparing the site, which may include prescribed burning, discing, or spraying to ensure a clean environment for planting. In season one, the project saw remarkable progress, with crews planting a significant number of trees—half a million more than initially planned. The key to this success lies in the large-scale labor crews and the vast size of the fields, some spanning up to 3,000 acres. With long rows of planting, crews were able to accomplish a great deal in a shorter amount of time.
Once planted, the trees typically spend their first year establishing roots in the ground, growing downward. By the second and third years, however, they start to show substantial growth above ground. The team is thrilled with the high survival rates already observed on the Bois d'Arc mitigation sites and looks forward to continuing the restoration efforts during the upcoming winter planting season. This initiative is crucial for both ecological restoration and creating sustainable, thriving landscapes for the future.
