David Blythe from the Forestry Division of the Arkansas Department of Agriculture provided the following assessment of the EVHA park. The recommendations below will be used to help prioritize park projects and maintenance efforts.

Forest Health

From a pure forest health perspective, the forest composition of the park does look good. The stand

consisted of multiple species of white oaks, pine, hickory, and some smaller trees such as dogwood.

Overall tree health was observed, and having large mature timber is a good sign for soil health in a

specific area.

Invasives

I did note that there was a large presence of honeysuckle/privet. In my experience, it is best to remove

these invasive species whenever possible. The allowance of their survival is detrimental to any natural

regeneration of native desired species. Mr. Adams alerted that me that annual cutting is a practice that

is currently in place, but these species will continue to return in perpetuity if not dealt with chemically.

I know that chemical application can make any person hesitant when dealing with the beauty and

security of a natural space. I can get back to you all with some recommendations, but I would not expect

this problem to go away without chemical intervention.

Future Practices

I did want to note that for any future tree removal, try to avoid removing trees, if possible, that sit

directly on the bank of the creek running through the park. Trees are an anchor for soil and will help to

be a natural deterrent for erosion happening from that body of water.

As for dead trees, in forestry terms referred to as snags, I wanted to address the concern of removing

them. On the north end of the park, practically at the trail head, sits a very large dead pine. This specific

tree, I would recommend needs to be dealt with sooner than later, as it poses a direct threat to park-

goers, along with possible damage to the nearby playground.* Beyond this one tree, snags are actually

very good for the ecology of a forest. They are used by several avian species, and once they fall on the

ground, used by many ground dwelling creatures as well. Beyond the desire for beautification of the

park or safety hazards, I would recommend that snags be left alone.

*Please note that this tree has been removed.