We all know that natural resources such as landscape vegetation and wildlife change over time. To keep our outdoor spaces healthy requires a plan and action. At Cherry Creek State Park, we predict that the cottonwood forest upstream of the lake will die off because there are no new cottonwoods germinating. This is happening at locations throughout Colorado. Because natural processes are lacking along Cherry Creek, we are planting cottonwood cuttings into holes augered to groundwater. Combining advice from others and monitoring our results, we are improving our techniques and expanding the number of planted trees each year. Adding new young plants will replace trees that die, ensuring the long-term survival of cottonwoods. How we determine what we do, and actions we take is the subject of our presentation.

Experience Level: Entry Level/Early Career