The park may look a little different next time you arrive. Blue Mound State Park staff have been working to remove the dead trees between Mounds Park Road and Pleasure Valley Trail killed by Emerald Ash Borer, along with invasive species such as Honey Suckle and Buckthorn.
Park staff began heavy mowing the area last January and February, and a contractor worked this month to remove larger trees and material. There are several dead trees left that will need to be cut by hand. Over the next several years, several of the cleared open areas will transition back to prairie and oak savannah, while planting more trees to help regenerate the area.
Earlier in March, Blue Mound State Park staff began cutting, chipping, and burning hazardous trees in the park. These trees primarily reside near the campground, picnic areas, and hiking trails. Clearing these trees from high-traffic areas helps keep visitors safe.
Staff have also started brush and forestry mowing between Pleasure Valley, Walnut, and Lodge Prairies. A lot of invasive brush is cleared, and downed trees have been stacked in burn piles. This is an effort to open up the three main prairies at the front of the park for better habitat.
