Mt. Baldhead Invasive Species Management Update

Parks & Public Works Agenda Discussion Item FROM:

Mark Ondersma – Director of Public Works

MEETING DATE:

September 22, 2026

SUBJECT:

Invasive Species Management Underway at Mt. Baldhead

DESCRIPTION: Invasive species management work has been ongoing at Mt. Baldhead, with crews now shifting their focus as the season progresses. According to Tanner from the ODC, work over the next few weeks will focus heavily on woody invasive species, particularly tree-of-heaven, an invasive tree species that can spread aggressively and impact native habitats. Additional restoration work is also planned. The seed mix and non-woody plugs are scheduled to be installed next week, helping to establish and support native plant communities in the area. Later in the fall, crews will turn their attention to installing shrubs and exclusion fencing as part of the ongoing restoration and invasive species management efforts. These continued efforts are an important part of maintaining and restoring the natural habitat at Mt. Baldhead.

BUDGET ACTION REQUIRED: N/A COMMITTEE/COMMISSION REVIEW: N/A LEGAL REVIEW: N/A SAMPLE MOTION: Discussion Only

Parks & Public Works Agenda Discussion Item FROM:

Nancy Kimble – Park & Public Works Chair

MEETING DATE:

September 22, 2026

SUBJECT:

Proposal For Conservation Services

DESCRIPTION: The proposed restoration will convert approximately 6,560 ft² of turfgrass at Coughlin Park and Mason Street into native plant communities, providing environmental benefits such as reduced mowing and irrigation requirements, increased wildlife and pollinator habitat, and opportunities to demonstrate native landscaping practices within the community. Site preparation will occur in fall of 2026 and will include targeted herbicide applications to control existing turfgrass and invasive species, followed by seeding with Michigan-native plant mixes and installation of native plugs to support establishment of slower-growing species. Both sites will be monitored monthly throughout the 2026 and 2027 growing seasons, with invasive species control identified as a primary management priority. Because prairie restoration can require two to five years to become established, continued management and reduction of competition from invasive and opportunistic species will be important to long-term project success. Estimated project costs of $6,500 for the Coughlin Park rain garden, $4,900 for the Mason Street hillside, and $3,000 for establishment-period maintenance in 2028. BUDGET ACTION REQUIRED: N/A COMMITTEE/COMMISSION REVIEW: N/A LEGAL REVIEW: N/A SAMPLE MOTION: Discussion only.