RAMBLE MAINTENANCE ADVISORY

# Crisis Management Intervention Program

This part of Azalea Pond landscape will be fenced and specially managed over the next three years to reverse the decline of the azaleas and red maples and to repair the forest floor. Intensive off-path trampling by people and dogs and bike riding through the landscape has killed the herbaceous plants on the ground plane and compacted the soil to such an extent that the existing trees and shrubs are severely stressed. The decline of the azaleas—for which the pond is named—has been hastened by the increasing amount of shade over the past decade. The management intervention program includes:

* **Rejuvenation pruning of the azaleas.**

Approximately 1/3 of the woody growth on each plant will be cut back to the root stalk. Although this may look drastic, it is a standard maintenance practice for this species and the only way to encourage new growth.

* **Soil Reconstruction.**

Because of the destructive effects of off-path trampling and bike riding, what little soil is left is compacted and unstructured. A hydraulic feeder—a machine that injects water into the soil mantle—will be used to gently decompact the soil. Wood chips will then be spread to add organic matter and protect the loosened soil from erosion. The site will be monitored closely to determine if additional work is needed.

* **Selective pruning of the existing tree canopy.**

In order to increase light levels into the Azalea Pond landscape, trees to the south will be selectively pruned during Winter 1997. Tree branches over-hanging the pond will continue to serve as supports for the bird feeders.

You can help reclaim this area by respecting the fences and using the asphalt pathways. Keep dogs on leash at all times.