Restoration Efforts at Somme Prairie: Volunteers Revive Native Lands

On Saturday, motorists passing Somme Prairie Nature Preserve in Northbrook might have felt they were witnessing history being revisited. Volunteers were using handheld scythes to combat invasive plant species. Nearly 30 volunteers gathered at the preserve on Dundee Road for a Friends of Illinois Nature Preserves event focused on removing these unwanted plants.

The scything started in the late afternoon, after air quality had improved from the dangerous levels caused by Canadian wildfires. By 6 p.m., the air quality rating had reached a moderate level of nearly 60, allowing those participants both willing and able to contribute to the effort.

The day’s mission was to eliminate invasive species like sawtooth sunflower and tall goldenrod, explained Rebeccah Hartz, a restoration volunteer and assistant director for Friends of Illinois Nature Preserves. She mentioned these were not woody plants like buckthorn, and the tool of choice for the task was a scythe. “Scythes are highly effective for cutting plants close to the ground with great precision,” Hartz stated.

Volunteers aim to restore conditions favorable for a rare prairie plant known as the eared false foxglove. “This is an exceptional plant,” expressed volunteer Ali Fakhari of Highland Park, as he showcased the foxglove.

Starting at 5 p.m., volunteers assembled in the post office parking lot, working for over two hours in the adjacent prairie before enjoying a potluck supper on the grass.

Regular restoration volunteer Stephen Packard was present. Packard, also a site steward for neighboring Somme Prairie Grove, is recognized as a conservationist and author. His contributions include speaking engagements such as one at Grigsby Prairie.

Among the visible signs of progress were dead buckthorn stumps on the prairie pathway. Volunteers had previously removed buckthorn to facilitate the land’s return to its native state. “This area used to be woods,” Packard said. “It was a degraded buckthorn forest, and restoring the prairie is a lengthy and demanding process.”

In terms of progress, Packard expressed a desire to see the prairie develop more rapidly. “No, I want it to go faster,” he stated. However, due to collective efforts with protective gloves, scythes, and dedicated volunteers, Somme Prairie Nature Preserve is on a hopeful trajectory.

Volunteer Michael Uhlemann attempted scything for the first time, along with his brother Will. Will noted the scythe’s historical significance, likening it to the tool associated with the Grim Reaper. Yet, his focus remained on the day’s natural engagement. “It’s wonderful to be among nature lovers,” he said.

John Jacobs from Evanston expressed his fondness for traditional tools, declaring the scythe as both cool and efficient. “Technology has its place, but for this task, a scythe is most effective,” Jacobs stated.

Participants experienced personal benefits from the event. Volunteer Mick Dart shared how being amidst nature contributes positively to one’s overall well-being. Jordan Botezatu echoed this sentiment, stating the activity is healing him as much as it aids the environment.

While dealing with invasive species, volunteer David Duncan highlighted the vast presence of sweet clover. “I need a dumpster for this,” Duncan mentioned, remarking that vigilance is crucial to prevent these weeds from seeding.

During the potluck, participant Christos Economou commented on the uplifting involvement in environmental efforts. “It’s rare to participate in something beneficial for the environment and feel optimistic,” Economou noted. “Rather than worrying about loss, we’re playing offense. Attempting to restore as much as possible feels rewarding.”