On Sept. 16, volunteers from 13 organizations

gathered to protect native wildflowers at Lost Valley. There, as in many natural areas, the native plants are being crowded, smothered or shaded out by exotic plants. These nonnative invaders have no natural predators and therefore spread uncontrollably. The species targeted for the Saturday “attack” was Japanese Stiltgrass, Microstegium vimineum, a plant from Asia. In an effort to preserve the Buffalo National River’s famous spring wildflower spectacle, volunteers pulled loosely rooted thickets of Japanese Stiltgrass before seed had dropped, and in the process collected 41 industrial sized trash bags, each weighing an estimated 45 pounds. BNRP board members Terrie Martindale, Melinda Caldwell and Pam Stewart were on hand to greet and explain the project to volunteers, and member Linda Glass helped with identification in the field. Chuck Bitting, Park Resource Department, cut and cleared fallen branches to allow access to areas, and Park Superintendent Kevin Cheri provided water, Gator Aid and snacks for volunteers. Organizations represented were Bergman High School Key Club, University of Arkansas Young Democrats Environmental Task Force, University of Arkansas Horticulture Club, University of Arkansas Student Sierra Club, Ozark Highlands Trails Hikers, Master Naturalists, Ouachita Mountain Hikers, Friends of Newton County Library, Arkansas Audubon Society, Friends of Baker Prairie, Arkansas Native Plant Society, Buffalo River Partners and sponsored by Buffalo National River Partners.

Courtesy photo