Orland Grassland Brats N' Burn A Success

ORLAND PARK, IL — The Orland Grassland Volunteers hosted their annual Brats and Burn on February 24 at Orland Grassland Land and Water Reserve, IBA, FPCC. They invited new volunteers to join them in helping with important lopping and burning of unwanted "woodies," non-native, aggressive shrubs and trees that invade the prairie.

"We shorten our usual three-hour field day and take a break, combining critical prairie restoration work with fun and food at the worksite," said Pat Hayes, Site Steward. "Brats, green peppers and onions sizzle on the fire while baked potatoes get hot in their pot. Others bring tasty treats. It’s a perfect way to make new friends."

Saturday’s work was pushing back an encroaching stand of dogwood. It had reached eastward beyond the big cottonwood stump along Old Farm Road Trail to the bottom of the west facing slope which contains native flora of the highest conservation concern. Species like hoary puccoon, scurfy pea, skullcap toadflax, prairie dropseed and many others have found their place there. The volunteers were able to push it way back.

"It’s amazing what helping hands can accomplish in just two hours," said Hayes. "Volunteers often look at me like I’m crazy when I tell them what the plan is for the day, but then, when it’s done, they are amazed and filled with admiration."

There is always more to do. This work is best suited for adults steady on their feet who can hike off trail and do physical activity, the group said in a release. Sponsored groups and organizations are welcome. If you’d like information on how to take a walk on the wild side and volunteer, contact Marnie Baker, marnie.baker@gmail.com, or contact them through their website at https://www.orlandgrassland.org.