534 Killian Road
Stanley, NC 28164
( 704) 822-9518
e-mail: mountainislandESF.DFR@ncdenr.gov
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Five new sections of fence are erected.
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An understory prescribed burn is conducted on a pine stand to reduce leaf litter, introduce more nutrients into the soil, and to make more room for both the trees and wildlife.
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An introduction to the forest is given to Catawba Springs Elementary school students.
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A Junior Forest Ranger program is conducted by forest staff in Weddington, NC. Approximately 170 people attend an area "Envirothon" at a local Duke Power plant. Ranger Shidal conducts lectures.
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Seven soil classes are conducted at Pine View Elementary School in Mooresville, NC.
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The area of the March, 2002 understory burn is rehabilitating nicely. Grasses and other small plants have reappeared.The grasses are being used heavily by deer. Turkey and quail are enjoying the seed and open areas. The area also abounds with insect life which the local bird population has been quick to exploit.
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On May 5th, the forest hosts a "Bio-Blitz". Sixteen different species of reptiles and amphibians are observed and recorded in a four-hour period, as well as 38 bird species and and variety of other wildlife. This event is conducted as part of the Central Carolina Amphibian and Reptile Initiative.
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The forest receives a U.S. Forest Service grant to help control non-native invasive plant species. Kudzu and Wisteria will be targeted.
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The Gaston County chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation awards the forest funds to purchase seed to stabilize recently built fire lines. The vegetation produced will also be beneficial to wildlife.
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The forest property is entered into the Registered Lands Program with the N.C. Wildlife Commision. Signs to control unauthorized hunting and fishing are posted.
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A NCDFR helicopter is retired from active service. It will eventually be moved to the forest where it will serve as part of a fire control demonstration area.
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The Railroad Track Gate Road was rerouted. The original road went straight up a hill and against the edge of one of our forest stands. The positioning of the road caused severe erosion which prevented access to one of the largest contiguous blocks on the forest. The road was regraded to meet the contour of the land and brought out where it would receive more sunlight.
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We continue to work on the Railroad Track Gate Road. Almost a mile of severely degraded red clay base road require weeks of intensive dozer work, several yards of stabilization fabric, and tons of gravel.
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