[BCNnet] FYI: Info on Chicago Park District nature areas (and fences)

[Randi Doeker - Chicago]

(There is a question for bird conservationists at the bottom.)

 

Through a Park Advisory Council I have received this information regarding
the Chicago Park District's work to enhance selected nature areas into full
(or better) nature sanctuaries.  This is a pilot program that currently
includes sections of these parks:

 

Indian Boundary

Montrose Point

McCormick Bird Sanctuary

Ronan

Burnham Nature Sanctuary

Ridge Park wetland

Bobolink Meadow (Jackson Park) 

 

Per the Park District:

The purpose of the new fencing at the Nature Areas is to designate these
locations as special.  (Not all areas are being fenced.)  The intention of
the fence is NOT to prevent people from entering the Nature Areas, but to
facilitate recognition of these areas as sites that are to be treated
differently. 

 

This particular fencing was chosen because it does not block views and
because it is made out of recycled plastic and wheat straw.  The benefit to
the environment is that the use of the recycled plastic diverts used,
non-biodegradable plastic from filling landfills. In addition, wheat straw,
an abundant and renewable resource which traditionally is an unused
byproduct of the agricultural industry, is also reclaimed and utilized in
the production of this fence. (Using traditional cedar split-rail would mean
cutting down cedar trees, which grow slowly and are limited to specific
habitat.)  

 

The Park District would like to get input from birders regarding the
addition of honeysuckle or similar vines to cover the fencing.  It would be
a way of obscuring the unnatural appearance of the fencing.

 

Please respond to me directly and I'll forward the replies to the park
district.

 

Randi Doeker

Chicago

 

Rbdoeker at yahoo.com



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