Proposed project:
- We will plant native trees, shrubs, grasses, sedges, and rushes across approximately 43 acres of former agricultural fields and former riparian floodplain forest (which is now dominated by weeds). Approximately 5 acres was planted between 2009 and 2011 and will be inter-planted.
- This project will add understory complexity to the forest, consistent with the goals of the Green Island Management Plan, page 59. The project will contribute to the goal of “Floodplain forest expansion, restoration and/or enhancement” through the following activities, identified in the Green Island management plan:
- Re-establish a diversity of native vegetation communities on agricultural lands and other disturbed
areas. Riparian forest, which mimics the historic condition, will be the primary target habitat.
- Establish a dense native grass cover crop on agricultural lands as they are phased-out of production and on disturbed areas to...  help limit weed establishment and prevent erosion.
- Plant a diversity of native riparian tree species, introduce a variety of native riparian understory species to the riparian forest. Riparian understory planting will be done in clusters to allow for easy irrigation and follow-up maintenance and monitoring.

Permits:
- Cultural resources surveys and Notification of Compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) were obtained for the property from 2007 to 2011.
- BPA has approved prior plans for Green Island riparian planting, and approval will be obtained for this  planting prior to implementation.
- Lane County land use approvals will also be obtained.

Community outreach:
- The Green Island Project provides ample opportunities for community outreach around floodplain conservation.
- The ease of access, large area, and diversity of habitat conditions and restoration stages offer opportunities for school groups, researchers, and the general public throughout the year.
- Annually in June, the Trust hosts a one day "Get Outdoors Day", which attracts nearly 1,000 visitors who participate in natural history tours and independent exploration.
Implementing partners:
- The project will be primarily undertaken by MRT staff with consultant support.
- Volunteer programs already working on the property, such as local businesses, University of Oregon Environmental Leadership Program students, and Springfield middle school students, may be engaged for some tree planting and maintenance of the projects in the "Bull Pen".   Show More