By Wayne Zimmerman 

and Claire Fletcher

The Buckthorn Brigade remains active in removing buckthorn from Barsness Park, however, we need volunteers to help in restoring areas devastated or damaged by the buckthorn. One option is having volunteers adopt small plots or areas to help in the restoration. The plots will be near the walking trails and areas frequently seen by park users. The work will include removing unwanted plants such as burdock, thistles, garlic mustard, and new buckthorn seedlings. The plots may be seeded with native plants which will out-compete the buckthorn. This will not only benefit park users, but also birds, butterflies, and other wildlife. We have several volunteers who will provide training and support. Volunteers interested in native prairie are needed to help collect seeds from native prairie grasses and prairie flowers which will be used in the restoration of  the prairie portion of the park. Again, training will be provided. Other volunteer opportunities include the heavy work of cutting, dragging, and piling, goat monitoring (checking the fence), fundraising, and help with using social media. 

‘Table and Chair area 

needs volunteer adoption

An example of an area needing adoption is the familiar Table and Chair area. Five years ago, park users had to walk through tunnels of 20 ft high buckthorn to reach this well-known destination. Some users were unable to find the landmark. At the base of the Table and Chair is a triangle area about the size of a mid-sized garden. It has a few oak trees and great views, plus a picnic table. Having a volunteer (s) visit the area once or twice a month to remove unwanted vegetation would help keep the area healthy and native for future park visitors. This is an area where reseeding with native plants that do well in similar light and soil conditions will help maintain the natural environment.  The park has many other areas which could be adopted, as well.

Volunteer leaders will assist in identifying work needing to be done and types of seeds, if seeding is appropriate. Plots are available throughout the park, or you can find your own plot.  Part of what makes Barsness Park so valuable is its diversity: native prairie, oak grove savannas, wetlands, and various types of forest. 

Adopt an area 

in Barsness Park

If you, your family, or organization would like to adopt an area, there are many from which to choose.  Volunteer leadership works closely with the city in coordinating activities. If you are interested in adopting an area or other volunteer activities, please call City Hall (320-634-5433) and leave your contact information. A volunteer will call to answer questions and provide additional information.