In 2023, this homeowners association approached us with a unique project in mind: restore this trailway that runs between a wetland and a lake, turning it from a drab and eroding berm filled with invasive plants into a beautiful and stable path that enables people to enjoy native ecosystems during their walks.

We approached this restoration in three different phases over three years, showcasing the different stages that restorations go through over time. The project started with meeting with our clients to establish an understanding of each other’s expectations and goals, and evaluating the site for its specific conditions and needs. After the meeting, we began the on-the-ground work of installing over 5,500 plants on 14,550 square feet of shoreline. First we removed the invasive plants such as reed canary grass, cattails, and overgrown willow saplings. Then, we mulched the cleared area and put in the plants. From there, our maintenance team took over the project and monitored the restoration’s progress, removing invasive plants as they pop up and adding additional plants where necessary.

In the years following the initial restoration, the berm has really taken off, offering trail-goers access to blooming native flowers, billowing grasses, and wildlife such as butterflies, bees, birds, and turtles enjoying the high-quality habitat.