01/08/2026
Ecological restoration... what's the point?
Some might say it's just nice to clean up an area so it's not so overgrown with brush, and it's true it is still beneficial to eradicate invasive brush. But you could clean up an area and still leave behind non-native, invasive, and/or ornamental species. At least it looks nicer, right?
Well that is only half the story, or should we say one part of a large system. The ecosystem. We learned in school about it, but did we ever truly understand just how delicate of a balance it is?
We humans tend to think of ourselves. What we want or like over what should be done, what's right. Even I have thought, "well I think (insert tree species here) are really pretty, what is the harm in having just one?" When you multiply us all having exceptions it adds up. And it leaves less habitat and food for the native fauna. Whether it is caterpillars that cannot feed on anything but a select few species of native plants, or even the larger mammals that depend on native species through the seasons. Deer can rely on acorns to fill up to 75% of their dietary needs for fall and winter!
We leave seed out for the birds, but spray our yards for insects. Did you know most of the birds actually rely mostly, if not solely, on insects to feed them and their young? If you do a quick online search you will find that bird populations are declining at an alarming rate. And why? Habitat loss. You might look around and say, but there are plenty of trees and wooded areas? Forests and prairies? Take a closer look and you will see those forests and prairies full of invasive or non-native plants are not home to the insects these birds need to survive. Our backyards aren't particularly safe havens for them either. With invasive bird species aggressively outcompeting with our often smaller but beautiful native birds, we actually create a battleground if we don't create a space meant for the birds who are supposed to be there.
Planting the native species is not just better for those above the ground but also the ground itself. The deeper root systems of native plants are important for soil health, too. From erosion prevention to nutrient cycling, oh and water retention that saves you time and money during droughts! Native plants really do it all.
So ecological restoration....what's the point again?
