In April and May, lovers of nature helped the Trust further preserve and enhance Willistown's rural beauty by planting several native wildflower meadows and by planting over 75 additional trees at Kirkwood Preserve.

The native wildflower meadows replace mowed lawn areas, and support a universe of wildlife beginning with the tiniest insects that form the foundation of an important food chain for the many birds who make Willistown their home. They also offer nesting and cover, and practically eliminate the need for mowing. And their natural beauty seems appropriate for Willistown's rural landscape.

The trees planted along the Crum Creek at Kirkwood Preserve will further protect and stabilize the stream banks from erosion and provide shade which lowers the water temperature, creating a healhier ecosystem. Similar to the native wildflowers, these native trees support significant insect life that contributes to the health and biodiversity of the area. For example, a single white oak supports up to 534 species of Lepidoptera, the insect order which includes butterflies and moths.

For great reading on why we should all be planting natives, we recommend Doug Tallamy's Bringing Nature Home.


On a chilly April Saturday, WCT trustees, staff members and their families take a break after planting over 900 native wildflowers.