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.